Since gaining international recognition with his famous cry, “Give us free” in the riveting story of the slave ship Amistad, Djimon Hounsou has been wowing audience with his passionate delivery and commanding presence on the big screen. The actor’s latest role in the spellbinding thriller “Blood Diamond”, has garnered him the 2007 Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination.

The dark chocolate 6 ft. 2" hunk is not only known for his ripping good body that has strutted on the catwalks of Paris and London as a popular male model, but for his strong and powerful presence and prowess as a actor, for TV and the big screen.

Hailing from Cotonou Benin, West Africa, Hounsou moved to France at age 13 with a brother and lived on the streets until he was discovered by fashion designer Thierry Mugler and started modeling. He appeared in music videos, such as Janet Jackson’s “Love will Never Do (without you)” – his first on screen appearance in 1990, Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up” and Madonna’s “Express Yourself”. The next bold step was acting which he did with debut film “Without You I’m Nothing” alongside Sandra Bernard in 1990 as well.

Miami and Broward Carnivals are fast approaching and the lineup of fetes looks very promising.  Islands United is bringing their annual Girl Power to Bongos (located at the American Airlines Arena, Downtown Miami) again.  While the previous years have always done well and remain the top Thursday event, the artistes weren’t representative of a true GIRL POWER event.  Last year included a large amount of male performers, as did the year before.  This year is the return of Alison Hinds to the card as well as Destra and Atlantik.  Also scheduled to perform is Michelle Sylvester, Fayanne Lyons, Nadia Batson, Candy Hoyte, and the lone male artiste, Iwer.  This year’s event should be a great event.  I love the venue, as there is plenty of parking. For more information on Girl Power, log onto http://myspace.com/islandsunited.

Trinisouthboyz is also another promotion that brings some of carnival’s biggest fetes.  The 6^th annual Socavivor includes a 6-day schedule of events.  You can start your wardrobe shopping from now to participate in their color-coded events.  I love the idea of wearing a particular colour on specific days as the parties have a unified look amongst partiers.  Their lineup for Carnival includes Machel Montano & Xtatik, Benjai, Red Hot Flames, Bunji Garlin, The Elvis White Band, and more.  For more information, log onto http://trinisouthboyz.com.

Dancehall sensation Tanya Stephens is suing Hip-Hop artiste L’il Kim; a.k.a. Queen Bee, for royalties for using her Mi an Mi God in Kim’s Naked Truth album. According to Stephens, she used some of the lyrics and even had a West Indian rhythm in the song. Stephens says she should be paid past and future royalties for the use of her lyrics. There has been no word from L’il Kim’s camp so far.

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Bollywood here I come!! West Indies skipper Brian Lara, a man considered a prima donna by critics and fans, is set to make his Bollywood debut soon. According to news reports, Lara is set to appear in the million-dollar production of 'Dulha Mil Gaya,' or 'I Found A Husband.' The film is to be produced by Viveck Vaswani and and Mudassar Aziz and is slated to be shot in Trinidad, the hometown of the batting legend, later this year. Lara is set for the tri-nation series next month that will see the Windies taking on both India and Australia.

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Labor Day is aljost here and every island has released music for their respective festivals.  Music will still release as some artistes have realized it doesn’t have to be Carnival to release music.  This is the opportune time for ragga-soca and groovy-soca to come out.  Nevertheless, festival music for 2006 has essentially run its course for a couple more months.  By November, Trinidad and St. Kitts will begin pushing songs for 2007.  Then it starts all over again!

Listening to the music throughout the year, I must say there were some nice surprises as well as some disappointments.  Some of the usual heavy-hitters in music came strong.  Shurwayne Winchester finally won the International Soca Monarch in Trinidad with, “Can’t Wait.”  Machel Montano and Patrice Roberts came strong to win the road with, “Band of The Year.”  It was nice seeing some newer faces getting some rotation such as Russell Cadogan with, “Big Bottom Gyal,” newcomers Surge with, “In Your Timing,” and Miss Alysha with, “Party.”  Nadia Batson has been busy all year with her song, “One Island,” and writing for artistes abroad.  I look forward to hearing more music from these artistes as some have been in the industry for a while, but are now getting recognition.

Competition is a big part of soca music during the Carnival season. Whether you are in Trinidad, Antigua, St. Vincent, or Barbados, competitions are all around in a number of categories. Whether it’s the soca monarch, calypso, or road march competitions, you’re sure to hear some type of controversy about it. St. Vincent’s road march was won by Skarpyon for a rather mellow song titled, “Leave Me Alone,” with no typical road elements. Whenever Trinidad has their International Soca Monarch competition, you’re sure to hear gripes about who should have placed or won. This year is no different as it pertains to Barbados.

Yes, the lack of quality music from Barbados is a hot topic. I don’t think there is a lack of good music, just a lack of good judgment from the radio stations and DJ’s. With that aside, the calypso tents have been in full swing for the past few weeks and more recently, the finalists were announced for the annual Party Monarch Competition. The top contenders of the event are Ms. TC, Edwin Yearwood, Khiomal Nurse, Adrian Clarke, Barry Chandler, Kimberly Inniss, Mr. Dale, Peter Ram and Lil Rick. The other contenders to meet last year’s winner, Natahlee Burke, are Sammi Jane, Omar McQuilkin, Sharon Darlington, Starr Perez, Crystal, Popsicle, Troy Special, De Villain, Lorianne, and the trio Malcolm X, Styles P, and Ramases Brown. This is the first year the competition is allowing a group to perform, allowing another addition to the growing controversy list. While it may not seem like an issue, the rules were not amended in time for many people to be aware groups were allowed.

Enjoy a family fun day with education that includes some of South Florida’s top health professionals. Get tips on healthy living and learn how to maintain a healthy way of life. Meet and network with South Florida's top non-profit organizations. Bring the kids to have a day of fun and education. Plus, participate in and enjoy our premier domino tournament.

The event, which is free for guests, is slated for Saturday July 29th, 2006 from 10:30am- 2:30 pm in Bon Vale Plaza’s Kareem’s Seafood and Wine Bar, 7529 W. Oakland Park Bvld. Ft. Lauderdale FL 33319 (Across from Lauderhill Sports Complex) -- 1/2 mile east of University Drive.

Headline Sponsor of the event is Bank Atlantic. Other participants in the event include Kareem's Seafood and Wine Bar, Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, United Way, Smart School, First Tee Golf, Sunrise Chamber of Commerce, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 24 Hour Fitness, Caribbean Americas Soccer Association (CASA), & Many More!

Tables start at $100.

For More Information: (754) 234-1018 or (954) 274-6007

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Register online at www.healthandwellnessday.com

Miss USA Mastana Cultural Pageant started back in 1993. With a little more than a decade under its belt, the pageant has surpassed many people’s expectations, both in terms of longevity and success. The competition was designed to showcase the Indo-Caribbean culture, which is exemplified in dress, dance, song and music. USA Mastana will also serve to preserve the Indo-Caribbean culture especially among the youth who are not readily exposed to the culture, which is an intrinsic part of Trinidad.

This pageant consists of three categories -- a Queen contest, in which the young ladies of our community are able to take part in a competition that the key notes are exemplified in the requirements that they parade in sari and eveningwear. A Bollywood dance and song contest is designed to give the growing numbers of dancers and singers in our community an opportunity to perform at a higher level.

This year’s competition will be held on Saturday July 22 at the Walter C. Young Hall in Pembroke Pines. This year, nine contestants vie for the top spot in the Queen contest. MC for the event will be MC Shamoon Mohammed of Sangeet 106 FM and the guest artiste is Shivana Ragoonanan, pannist, both from Trinidad and Tobago. The fashion designer, sound and light technicians and stylist were recruited from Trinidad to add authenticity to the event. 

Producer of the event Devika Ragoobarsingh expressed her thanks to sponsors, judges, artists, and all assistants for their contribution and cooperation. “We must extend special thanks and pay public tribute to Ram’s Car Care Center and Caribbean National Weekly for giving us this opportunity to showcase and promote USA Mastana Cultural pageant. I want to extend best wishes to all the contestants, you are all truly beautiful, intelligent, and talented.  You are all winners and I commend you,” the producer said.

The roots play “Jamaica Dancehall Vibes” is being touted as one of the funniest and jost intriguing plays to ever hit south Florida. The play, which will be showing at the Lou Rawls Theater for the Performing Arts, at the Florida Memorial University July 30, is said to have wowed the audience on its June 11 showing at the North Miami Performance Arts Theater.

The name, “Jamaica Dancehall Vibes”, though applicable, hid the depth the show managed to possess while maintaining some of the funniest lines and actions seen in a long time. It was hard to decide at first, whether to laugh at the funny moments or to keep following the nail biting drama being unfolded. A quick glance around the theater revealed that the audience was caught in the same predicament. One woman remarked, "I was afraid to even go to the ladies room in fear of missing what's coming next.”

The show is definitely worth seeing; it tells the story of the ghetto as seen through the eyes of one who has definitely an insight as to the actual running of the ghetto, so real, so lifelike. The writer truly managed to capture the ghetto lifestyle through the skills of the actors. One particular scene was played out by Joycie (Joy Grandison) which had the audience moved with emotions as she revealed the torture she endured, at the hands of her husband, in order to save her only daughter, Keisha (Loyette Davis). The Community DJ, (Richard Johnson) added wit and humor, his very appearance had the audience in stitches. The ghetto is controlled by the suave Don, (Courtney Howell), who hosts dances in the community and quite possibly has fallen in love with the wrong woman. Appearance are made at these dances by Mr. Wackie (Horace Goode aka Blaxxx), who displays his dancing talents and original lyrics but who is begrudged by the cunning Jahlocks (Elvis Morris) who feels cheated of his inheritance and status within the community. Sta Mabel, (Ann Mckenzie) endeared herself to the audience as the nosy old woman who knows everyone business in the community (except hers).

Hats off to this Homegrown Theatre group, CountrySide Theatre Promotions for a job well done!

Reggae Grammy split between Roots & Dancehall? The National Academy of Recording Artists and Sciences (NARAS) have turned down a request to split the reggae category into two, dancehall and roots. "We have made this request in the past, but this year there was a huge push for it involving all members of the committee making statements on behalf of the split," committee member Roger Steffens said. According to Steffens, this decision by NARAS is not the end of the issue, as the committee will be making another attempt in 2007. There are mixed reactions from industry players in local music circles, with jost in support of the additional reggae category. The president of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians (JFM), Desmond Young, said while he doesn't have a fundamental problem with the separation of the Grammy award, he cautioned that it might make a mockery of what was seen as a victory two years ago when a push was made to recognize dancehall as reggae. Young recalled that it was this initiative, of which he was a part, which partially paved the way for Sean Paul to win the Grammy. "Just recently, to get Sean Paul qualified, we had to lobby that dancehall and reggae is the same. So we may end up contradicting ourselves," warns the JFM president.

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Jamaica's rich folk heritage will be in the spotlight as Jamaica Awareness,Inc., in association with Air Jamaica Lovebird Kidz Club will present, CULTURAMA 2006.  This year there will be one show only on Sunday, July 30th, at 7pm at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive

Culturama 2006 is a variety show with old time festival flair and flavor, showcasing traditional Jamaican folk dances, drama and oratory, and musical performance. It is premier family entertainment, presented as a part of Jamaica's Independence celebration in Florida.  The island gained independence from Britain on August 6, 1962.

Featured performers include The Clonmel Cultural Club, Bethlehem Teachers Group, Peace Makers Mento Band, Jamaica Folk Revue, The Nomads and Malachai Smith.

Based on past years' presentations, the show promises to be a raging success with a great time to be had by all. Don't miss out; don't miss it! Get your tickets early!

Culturama 2006 is presented by Jamaica Awareness, Inc., in association with Lovebird Kidz Club, with support from the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission and is sponsored by Western Union, Air Jamaica, Florida Arts and TropiCulture.

Tickets are $25 and $30 for adults and $15 for children under 12 years and are available at selected Caribbean outlets.  For more information contact Sydney Roberts of Jamaica Awareness, Inc., at (305) 891- 2944

Carnival activities are gearing up in St. Vincent, Antigua, and Barbados.   While the music has been trickling out of Antigua, St. Vincent and Barbados have been dropping tunes left and right.  Antigua doesn’t appear to have many solo artistes in comparison to the other islands.  Perhaps it’s the style of music that Antigua has and the importance of the “riddim box,” that we hear in bands such as Red Hot Flames.  When referring to Antigua’s music, we think about Burning Flames, High Intensity, Taxic, and El-A-Kru.  While people may make mention of an artiste, they still belong to a band.  The airwaves aren’t filled with as many individuals like in Barbados and Trinidad.  Perhaps this is the reason why the music seems to come so late.  They are done more as collaborations and release as albums versus singles.  Nevertheless, I look forward to the new Antiguan tunes in the near future.

Over the weekend, Barbados had a clash of new talent at the popular Crop Over venue, Tim’s On The Highway.  For anyone who has never been to Crop Over, Tim’s is open everyday and all day, for the Crop Over season for fetes, drinks, and food. Upcoming bands, Electrik and Jabae were on the airwaves, advertising the event.  They asked fans to support in the colors red for Jabae and white for Electrik.  I’m not sure why either band thought a clash was necessary.  While I enjoy music from both bands, they are both in need of some work to achieve the status of Krosfyah or the former Square One.

It’s back to the class-room for Patrick Brown’s side-splitting comedy featuring Oliver Samuels - the Caribbean’s King of Comedy - and a cast of talented actors, in Class of ’73. This rollicking comedy will play in Tampa and Palm Beach June 24 and 25 respectively, North Miami Beach and Coral Springs July 1st and 2nd.

Imagine Oliver Samuels playing the role of a teacher - Mr. B. Pringle – saddled with a bunch of intellectually-challenged social rejects known as Grade 6Z.  Join these social misfits on a gut-busting, laugh-a-minute ride towards their unlikely graduation.

Writer Patrick Brown uses Class of ’73 to look at some of the challenges facing Jamaica’s education system.  But despite the inherent and obvious frailties, he shows that the nation continues to beat the odds.  How? Come see what eventually happens to the Class of ’73.   The 1973 setting adds a touch of nostalgia to this unforgettable experience.  Picture Oliver Samuels in Jherri Curls and Bell-foot polyester pants “skanking” to the music of The Heptones, or Glen “Titus” Campbell & Company, sporting giant afros, doing the “S90 Skank”.  Need we say more?

Tickets will are available at selected Caribbean outlets.  Class of ’73 is presented by Riddims Marketing in association with Jamaica Awareness, Inc. and Jamaica National Money Transfer.  Class of ’73 is sponsored by Air Jamaica, Grace Tropical Rhythms and Douglas Chiropractic Centers.

In celebration of Caribbean Heritage month, The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) will present the “Treasures of the Caribbean,” a collection of artwork from various artists of Jamaica, Haiti and other Caribbean islands on Friday, June 16 from 7 to 9 pm, 2650 Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

Artwork from Alexandre Gregoire, Herve Telemaque, Lukner Lazard, Errol Elgo Lewis and other artists will be on display in the gallery. “It’s an honor to highlight the works of these Caribbean artists,” said Pearl Woolridge, head of Special Collections at AARLCC. “They as well as other Caribbean natives have made countless contributions and have had a great impact on African-American culture.”

Each piece of artwork reflects the influence of African culture combined with the Spanish, French, English and indigenous people.  The exhibition will run through July 3, and the reception is free and open to the public. The community is encouraged to attend in Caribbean attire.  Signature island dishes such as fried plantains will be served, and entertainment will be provided by the Lauderhill Steel Ensemble. For more information on this event, call 954-625-2810 or visit the website at www.broward.org/library.

Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Ziggy Marley has announced that he has entered into an agreement with Target, which will be the exclusive U.S. retailer of his second solo CD, “Love Is My Religion,” on Tuff Gong Worldwide Records, scheduled for release on Tuesday, July 4.  This deal is a first for both parties, marking the first time Ziggy has ever released an independent album without using the traditional major label infrastructure, and the first time that Target will act as the sole U.S. retailer for a major recording artist. This direct relationship between Marley and Target will allow the album to be offered at the low price of $9.99 to Target guests.  “This album and the way it is being sold are important to me in honoring my father’s spirit.  I am excited to be a part of this new relationship with Target.” Darrell Tucker, vice president, merchandising, Target shared, “We are excited to bring this powerful collection of music exclusively to Target guests.” Ziggy’s solo debut, “Dragonfly,” was released in 2003 and featured such artists as Flea and John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Mike Einziger and DJ Kilmore (Incubus).  For more information on Ziggy Marley, log on to www.ziggymarley.com.

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Offering great food and entertainment in a quaint country setting, the Tropical Ag. Fiesta returns to the Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Avenuein the Homestead/Redland area Saturday and Sunday June 10 & 11.

Once again the Fiesta, which began 75 years ago as a mango festival, will showcase the best of what the South Dade agricultural community has to offer including dozens of varieties of flowering and shade trees, tropical fruit, herbs, spices and vegetables.

The community’s agro-industry efforts will also be on display with producers offering a range of products including jams, jellies, ice cream, wines and other items in which the main ingredients are farmers’ produce. 

For the second year in a row there will be cooking demonstrations by some of Miami-Dade’s top chefs with the focus being on the use of tropical fruits and other local products.

Recent events have caused me to wonder what is going on with the management of some soca artistes.  Destra was recently scheduled to perform in Washington DC as well as Orlando.  It appears there was a work visa (work permit), that prevented the band from traveling to the United States for their scheduled gigs. This isn’t the first time Destra’s had visa issues nor is she the only person who has had problems recently.  Problems continue to arise with Denise Belfon and her bookings.  Promoters continue to complain about her no-shows, even after securing a deposit.  It’s not uncommon for scheduled acts to perform, but when it’s a particular artiste time after time, it makes one think how can they possibly think promoters will continue to book them?  Denise was a no-show at a show in the Bahamas last month.  In addition to her not performing, there were visa issues with other Trinidad artistes, Mista Vybe and Zan.  Both have reported to have fixed the situation, and perhaps it was a problem given their new popularity this year.  While the work permit problems can sometimes be out of the artistes’ control, it is inexcusable for artistes to not show up for shows.

Caribbean entertainment TV network TEMPO has initiated a pro-social campaign dubbed ONE LOVE, which it says seeks to engage, educate and empower the community in tackling regional issues. Currently airing on TEMPO, the campaign seeks to openly and for the first time truly explore what the legendary Bob Marley wished to express by advocating a philosophy of One Love. The ONE LOVE campaign features multiple public service announcements (PSAs), which will broadcast on TEMPO and online at gottempo.com. Top Caribbean artistes, including Beenie Man, Baby Cham, Bunji Garlin, Allison Hinds, Ricky Jai, David Kirton, Machel Montano, Rupee, Mr Vegas and others have already lent their perspective to the campaign. The network further stated that additional on-air, online, wireless, and grassroots initiatives will be rolled out throughout the year.

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Memorial Day is fast approaching, leaving many options for those of us in Florida. In the South Florida area, the 13th Annual Reggae Soca Music Awards will be held Saturday, May 27 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The finalists are as follows:

In the Best Male Soca Artiste you have from Barbados, Rupee and Edwin Yearwood, and from Trinidad, Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin and Shurwayne Winchester. Rupee’s “What Happens in the Party,” made a strong presence, even though it was released in 2004. Edwin released music on Krosfyah’s album, and did well with his remake of, “All Aboard,” featuring Bunji Garlin. The remake is unique because Edwin originally wrote the song for Tony Prescott and Atlantik. In addition to the music he released with Krosfyah, Edwin released his 2nd solo CD, and received good play with, “Weekend.” Machel did well in 2005 with his collaborations with Doug E Fresh and Wyclef. Bunji Garlin won the Soca Monarch Competition with “Blaze De Fire.” Shurwayne took the Road March title in 2005 with “Dead or Alive.” The competition is stiff, so I look forward to seeing the winner.

Real Ghetto Story Comes to Town

Baby Cham is causing a ruckus with his new hit song, “Ghetto Story”. (And, really, that’s an understatement). This week, “Ghetto Story” zooms zoomed from number 74 to land at number 50 on the Billboard Hot R&B Hip Hop Singles & Tracks chart. Ghetto Story has already surpassed the peak of its predecessor, Vitamin S, which peaked at #56 in 2004! The song is also doing well on the radio in the United States. It is currently up to 100 spins per week on New York radio station, Hot 97! Cham even made an appearance on MTV's Direct Effect, where he talks about the song and his upcoming album, and also recently signed a deal with Atlantic Records. Baby Cham is not only a magnificently talented artist and performer... Cham never takes his fans for granted, and unlike many entertainers, he does not get caught up in the frivolous hype of the music industry. Baby Cham always remains humble. He cares about real issues and expresses this through his music. Baby Cham gives back to his Community. Understanding the importance of education for children, Cham has gone above and beyond to help the kids by donating to schools throughout Jamaica. Baby Cham will be performing at the Bayside Hut, in Miami, on Sunday May 28, 9pm, so check him out. Big up Cham! – Yeah! Step out to another big Memorial holiday event.

Back in April of 2005, Barbados launched Reggae on the Hill. The location was at Farley Hill and featured acts top reggae acts such as Barrington Levy, Beres Hammond and Maxi Priest. I was rather disappointed that I missed it since I was in Barbados just days after the event. I vowed to return and experience the event as I’d heard so many good reviews about it.

Here we are in 2006, and I made it to the 2nd Annual Reggae on the Hill on the weekend of National Heroes Day and May Day. This year’s acts included Third World, Anthony B, Morgan Heritage, Luciano, and Buju Banton. My day started early as the event was scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. After living in the Miami area for a while, I was aljost sure that the crowd wouldn’t come until later in the day. Well, my Bajan friend insisted that we leave early because of the parking issue. So here we are, inching in traffic for a good hour. Barbados is not a large place, and the area where we were in traffic was even smaller. We finally reached and I was amazed at how large the crowd was. The radio stations reported 17,000 pre-sold tickets had been sold over the weeks at US$35. A reported 20,000 patrons attended the event.

Buju Banton is in legal battles.  He and his record label Gargamel music are threatening legal action against Big Cat Records for releasing an album entitled “Buju Banton Presents: Toppa Di Top Dirty Rhythms. According to a release from Gargamel Music's Vice President and General Manager, Tracii McGregor, Buju Banton fans should not buy the album as no one but Big Cat Records will benefit from the sales on this project, and warned that litigation will be the next step. A release from Gargamel Music said that "the so called deal that was executed five years ago is null and void today". It continues “and despite the fact that the material is just as old, Big Cat records is trying to promote it as a sanctioned new album and has even gone as far as listing Buju Banton as one of their artistes on their website," the release stated. However, Big Cat Records refutes the claim of Gargamel Music that the release of this album at this time was a malicious attempt to smear or damage the image of reggae superstar Buju Banton.

Sizzla Lands a Pro-keds sneaker deal! Sizzla's new found friendship with Damon Dash has realized a new sneaker deal. There are also plans for a book, a clothing line, a movie, a documentary, the whole nine yards. Step out yes, Sizzla.
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IRAWMA Winners!! The 25th Anniversary of the International Reggae & World Music Awards held on May 6th at NY’s Apollo Theatre announced the 2006 winners. Damian Marley copping 4 awards – the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year, Recording Artist of the year, Best Song of the year, "Welcome to Jamrock" and the best album of the year, "Welcome to Jamrock”; Marcia Griffiths took home Best Female vocalist; Sean Paul, Best Crossover Song, "We Be Burning”; Beenie Man, Best Male D.J. / Rapper; Macka Diamond, Best Female D.J. / Rapper; Machel Montano, Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer. Other entertainers such as, Capelton, Luciano, Papa San, Jah Cure, Kanye West and more all took home coveted awards. Congrats to you all!!!

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Reggae Sumfest hails women performers!! Music lovers all across the world and in Jamaica make preparations for the big show which already boasts a stellar lineup, but undoubtedly the entertaining and versatile ladies of dancehall are expected to bring their own flavor, dynamism and powerful lyrics to the show. The Queen of Dancehall, Lady Saw, promised she will make her showing at Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest an unforgettable one.

The Ethiopian Lion Family Community Youth Movement presents A Musical Outcry and Fundraiser The M.I.S.S.I.O.N Unfinished Business: “A tribute to the International women and child, OUTCRY against Drugs and Violence in Jamaica and S. Florida” at Samuel Delevoe Park Sistrunk Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL On Sunday, May 21, 2006.

According to Lion, the organization’s director, "The organization's mission is to make a difference in the lives of inner city youth's every where and to stir response to duty's call."

The event will feature alongside Ethiopian Lion Family Studio One Veteran, Youth Man Promotion Sugar Minott with Fyah Pashon from Jamaica and selected rising artists from South Florida who will deliver conscious roots reggae and culture rhythms all backed by The Nubian Players Band. The Lion Cub youths will be drumming and singing spiritual melodies.

There will also be authentic Caribbean foods, natural juices, games, and storytelling and bounce houses for the children. This event is FREE admission with love donations of necessary school supplies for underprivileged children in Jamaica. This event is from 10 am - 6 pm and welcomes any sponsorship or monetary donations. This Ras Tafari Reunification aims to feed the multitude by spreading the universal message of H.I.M. Haile Sellassie I's love and teachings to all humanity regardless of race, religion or gender.

Greetings! The month of April sure passed by quickly.  St. Thomas Carnival is upon us and Jamband is heating things up.  I recently got a chance to hear their album and while Daddy Friday is no longer with us, Jamband is here to stay.  New lead singer, Pantha, has a voice reminiscent of Friday, but brings his own flavor to the band.  Check their new tracks, “No Jamband No Carnival,” and, “Wha You Mean By That,” and you’ll see they’re still coming strong as ever.  I predict Jamband will dominate the road with their music this year.  What would be a greater tribute to the late Daddy Friday than to continue the music that he loved so much!

So, last week I was making predictions as to who would do well this summer.  One of those individuals, Orande “Bomani” Charles, was in New York recently and collapsed and broke his jaw in several places.  He is expected to recover, though it will take some time.  His presence for Vincy Mas is undecided, but I do wish that he recovers quickly.  For those unfamiliar with the name Bomani, you may be more familiar with his music.  He had a big tune in 2004 with his winning Road March tune, “I Am Soca,” as well as his popular song with various names depending on who you ask, “Booty Call/Turn ‘Round/Shake It.”  No matter what you call it, the song is hot!  In 2005, Bomani brought us a nice groovy tune, “Wet,” that has picked up pace in soca parties everywhere.  Let’s all pray that Bomani gets better soon, and hopefully he’ll be back to doing music in the near future.

Authentic Jamaican roots, pianist Monty Alexander presented a new cd called, CONCRETE JUNGLE, in New York on Monday, April 24. In the summer of 2005, Monty Alexander traveled to Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong Studio in Kingston, Jamaica, with a crew of highly talented U.S. musicians and teamed up with Jamaican top session players to record the brilliant follow up to his 1999 Telarc release Stir It Up - an album that combined acoustic jazz and Jamaican reggae rhythm sections to interpret the music of the great Bob Marley. Concrete Jungle is a set of twelve compositions penned by Bob Marley and reinterpreted via Alexander’s jazz piano-oriented arrangements. The resulting union of musical sensibilities digs even deeper into the Marley legend.  In the past decade alone, Alexander has maintained an especially busy schedule with multiple projects spanning multiple genres and styles. In 1991, he assisted Natalie Cole in crafting a tribute album to her father, Nat “King” Cole (the album, Unforgettable, won seven Grammy awards). In 1993, he had performed at Carnegie Hall in a tribute to the great jazz pianist Erroll Garner; just to name a few of Monty’s projects. CONCRETE JUNGLE is a must for every one. Check it out at Monty’ website www.montyalexander.com

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Celebrated Jamaican actor/comedian Charles Hyatt is slated for two dates of stand up comedy on April 22, and 23.

Hyatt’s storytelling and unmatched ability to entertain have placed him in the homes and hearts of Jamaicans at home and abroad. His comic prowess and penchant for the theatrical is aptly captured in his novel, “When me was a boy” which has won audiences from its first publication in 1989 bringing them back into an era when ‘pickney’ respected their elders and Christmas morning called for new shoes and Sunday best.