Kartel and business partner claim ...Club raid was unfair

(via The Jamaica Star)

Business partner of Vybz Kartel and manager of the Building in New Kingston, Corey Todd, was held in custody for hours during a raid on the venue on Sunday night during the Kartel in Concert, Boxing Day Extravaganza.

Yesterday Todd said that he feels the Building was unjustly raided by the police for the second time in two weeks.

"We had a massive crowd Sunday night, people came out early and were waiting in line from 9:30 p.m. By 1 a.m., the police came and raided the club, they came in with guns drawn in the air and creating chaos," he said.

He further explained; "The police came to me and asked if I'm Corey Todd and took me into custody from 1 a.m to 6:30 a.m."

According to Todd, he was escorted to the New Kingston Police Post while the club was being raided, later moved to the Mobile Reserve and then to the Half-Way Tree Police Station.

He said he contacted his lawyers, Michael Dean and Michael Lorne, who accompanied him to the police station where his United States passport was taken from him. "I contacted the US Embassy and they said they can't do that," he said.

He also said that he asked the police and they couldn't say why he was being held or a reason for raiding the club.

Todd said that he he feels the police's action was an injustice. "They ran our patrons out for no reason. I don't blame the police force even though they didn't have a search warrant," he said.

He further said: "They didn't find anything again, they roughed up a few patrons, a young lady I heard was slapped in the face. A lot of patrons blamed a promoter from another event held that night."

Kartel, who was the main person billed for the event, was on his way to the venue when the raid was conducted. "I wasn't surprised that the police came to lock off the Building so early while all the other clubs in New Kingston were left unscathed, because I had received a call earlier on a private number from someone claiming that I dissed them and only one show can be staged on Boxing night."

According to Todd, they will be putting on a free concert at the Building next Wednesday to make it up to the fans who were present and didn't get the performances they were promised.

In the meantime, Todd says he plans to take legal action against the police for their actions. As for rumors that the police used tear gas during the raid, Todd says he is not sure that occurred but patrons were treated with "excessive force".

However, when THE STAR spoke to Superintendent Derrick 'Cowboy' Knight, head of the Half-Way Tree police, he said that the police went to the location based on information received that there were illegal firearms, drugs, wanted men and other persons of interest at the location. He said the police will continue to follow leads.

"This entertainment location poses a serious security risk as the capacity is between around 1,500-2,000 and Sunday night over 8,000 persons were crammed inside with another 3,000 persons standing outside."

In the meantime, Knight said that two persons were taken in for questioning including Todd, while a female patron was arrested and charged with assaulting the police and calumnious language.

Below is a recording of an interview done on the popular radio show Ragashanti with Vybz Kartel and Corey Todd speaking about what happened on boxing day in The Building.

Bob Marley's Son Rohan Marley Maced and Choked By Off Duty Officer

(via TMZ)

Rohan Marley, one of Bob Marley's many children, was maced and put in a headlock by an off-duty cop working at Voyeur on Saturday night -- and Rohan tells TMZ he plans on pressing charges.

Our photog only caught a couple of seconds of what went down (literally, you'll probably have to replay a few times). But a source tells us Marley -- who baby daddied five kids with Lauryn Hill -- mistook someone outside the club as a valet, and that person took offense.

We're told Marley and the guy traded words and eventually fought. Sources say an off-duty cop who works at the club maced all involved - eventually putting Marley in the chokehold.

Marley tells TMZ he was simply defending himself and feels the off-duty cop "went overboard." He says he'll look into pressing charges because he "can't just let this go."

Jamaican made cars being exported to Turks and Caicos

Three motor cars made by Excel Motors Island Cruisers, located in Savanna-La-Mar, Westmoreland, being escorted on to the Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal by the police, for the official export ceremony, Friday (December 10).

(via Go-Jamaica)

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Karl Samuda, has lauded Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jamaican firm, Excel Motors Island Cruisers, Patrick Marzouca, for his firm's success in manufacturing and exporting motorcars to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Speaking at the export ceremony at the Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal on December 10, Samuda congratulated Marzouca and endorsed his resilience and determination, which made the project a success.

"The idea of a car manufacturing project was not a piped dream, but a reality and now to see that he has persevered against all the odds; with all these trials and tribulations, he has been able to obtain an order for the production of these vehicles. I want to commend you for your effort, Patrick, and I want to congratulate you for your sense of resilience and your determination to succeed," Samuda said.

He indicated that the government was totally committed to the manufacturing sector, recognizing that only through expansion of productive activity that the country is going to get out of its economic difficulties.

"Here before us today is an example of someone that has not only had the tenacity and the stick-to-itiveness to pursue against the odds and the difficulty of finding the capital necessary to keep the entire business running, but one who has triumphed," Samuda said.

He added that, having driven one of the vehicles, it appeared that the integrity of the equipment is without doubt. He, however, encouraged Marzouca to reconsider the branding of the product, and consider using the Jamaica brand which, he said, was critical for a new product.

"I believe that Jamaica has the kind of name and reputation that will assist the product and drive its quality,"Samuda advised.He assured Marzouca that funding to move his business to a higher level was available through the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) and the ExIm Bank, and made a commitment to assist him to increase profitability.

A former Minister of Development, Dr. Paul Robertson, in congratulating Marzouca, said that the vehicles demonstrated 'some real Jamaican engineering', and great export potential and prospects for developing and expanding a niche product for Jamaica.

Excel Motors Limited, the only car manufacturing company in Jamaica, was officially launched in 2003 with vehicles boasting fiberglass chassis and 1.5 litre Japanese-made engines.

Beenie 'corrects' Kartel

(via The Jamaica Star)

A new Beenie Man song entitled Father God Help Them has been creating quite a stir in the dancehall as many have deemed it as a diss song for fellow deejay Vybz Kartel.

The song has been getting plenty of listenership on the video sharing website, Youtube and has been attracting numerous comments from listeners. In the song, Beenie Man sings, "change mi skin colour that me naw do ... you see the freak thing, that me nah do ...".

In another line, he sings, "a fight over style weh mi grandma mek/Oh awoww!, yuh no hear nothing yet/before Clarks a beat, man a wear Gator crep,".

However, Beenie Man's manager, 'Blue', told THE STAR in a telephone interview yesterday that the song is not a diss song as many are making it out to be, but it is actually "a correction" to an earlier song which Vybz Kartel did on the same rhythm. "It's not really a disrespect and him no diss Kartel, ano disrespect," Blue explained.

He said Beenie is simply trying to defend the honour of dancehall music and protect it and its pioneers as he merely disagreed with some of the things Kartel said in his song in regards to the 'styles' he claims he created.

In Vybz Kartel's song, 'Dancehall Hero', Kartel apparently refers to himself as the 'big man' in dancehall whom every other artiste wants to emulate as he is the trend-setter. In that song, Kartel says, "the whole a dem a watch the teach" and says "every style me mek dem want one ... call up me name just fi get a forward,". In another line Kartel deejays, "me no memba no dj bwoy, dem si down pon me name like back pocket rag ... Vybz Kartel mek the whole a dem a mad,".

Contacted yesterday, Vybz Kartel seemed unconcerned about Beenie's new song. "Heard about it, never heard it, not interested," he said.

Asked if he had a brewing feud with Beenie Man he replied, "the only thing I have brewing is Street Vybz rum at the factory".

Charly Black launches 'Fall In Love Again'

Dancehall artiste Desmond 'Charly Black' Mendize recently launched the video for one of his latest singles, Fall In Love Again.

The video launch which took place in the United States saw fans, family, friends and well wishers of Charly Black all coming out in support of the artiste.

The video which was shot in New York was directed by Kalechi Noel of overseas based Kaon Multimedia Inc., with production work from Nigel Angus.

The song is produced by Troytan of Troytan Music on his Compassion rhythm, is a love song that sees the deejay singing in an effort to woo a beautiful female who was previously involved in an abusive relationship and set her mind that she will never fall in love again.

Fall In Love is just one of several singles the ex-disc jock has recently recorded in past months, as he is also featured on Seanizzle's Split Personality rhythm with Me Nuh Fraid, which is currently enjoying airplay on radio stations islandwide.

The artiste who made his entrance into the music scene in 2007 says, "This is probably the best music video I've ever done in terms of quality and all. From you look on it you can see that it is a masterpiece."

According to Black, upon his return to Jamaica next week, it will be work as usual as he prepares for the upcoming festive season as well as the shows he is booked to perform on.

Charly Black, who works closely with Coppershot Productions, is known for hit songs such as, Rich This Year, Money Dreamer and Nuh New Fren.

Kartel's new Benz turns heads

(via The Jamaica Star)

Deejay Vybz Kartel made the talk of the town this week as he profiled his brand new 2010 S-Class Mercedes-Benz estimated to value over $12 million.

THE WEEKEND STAR visited the deejay recently in Kingston where he showcased his new ride. He was unwilling to disclose the amount he paid for the vehicle; however, several websites checked by THE WEEKEND STAR estimated the vehicle to be worth more than J$12 million. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a series of large luxury sedans produced by Mercedes-Benz, a German manufacturer of cars, buses, coaches and trucks.

The deejay, who got the Benz on Monday from Carland on Old Hope Road, disclosed to THE WEEKEND STAR that the vehicle is a dream to drive. When asked why he bought this particular car, Kartel said, "yuh know is a X6 (BMW) mi buy and me and Corey (Todd) a reason and sey the X6 too common. No deejay eva own a S-Class Benz. This Benz is the flagship of the Benz's line, meaning dis a di top, top Benz."

He added, "It do everything except fly, the body can raise, it just have the whole driving experience, is like yuh a drive pon air."

Since getting his new ride, however, Kartel says he has been reading a lot of rumours online that the car doesn't belong to him. Setting the record straight he said, "People a sey a nuh my Benz, so wha me a deejay fa? So dis is to all di haters dem weh sey is not mine. Hate to burst your bubble but it's mine, paid for and no car payments. This is not a made in Jamaica vehicle like wha other deejays have. Me not even haffi deejay fi buy dis, me coulda sell rum and get dis."

Kartel recently returned from a trip to Suriname where he said he performed to a crowd of over 20,000 patrons. "Suriname was crazy, Kartel owns South America, dem love mi like dem love football," he said. He also recently completed the video for the Duss medley and has a number of new singles just released and to be released soon.

Mr G pleased' with ever-growing attention surrounding his career

(via The Jamaica Star)

Veteran dancehall artiste Mr G has said he's "extremely pleased" with the ever-growing public attention surrounding his music career in recent times.

Since releasing the prophetic single, Before the Year Done (Mi waan fi rich), early last year, the crafty lyricist has seen his career skyrocket and has so far been able to maintain the hype.

He has also played lead role in a recent commercial for telecommunications giant Claro, in which his hit single, Swaggerific, was used as a special theme song to describe the network's status.

He said the advert has so far been significant in his bid for a stronger presence in the public domain.

"The advert has been very significant. What Claro has done now is place Mr G as a major brand in Jamaica, because they (Claro) are a major company. I'm very appreciative of that," he said.

Mr G, formerly Goofy, has been in the music business for more than a decade, and while he had enjoyed ample success under his former identity, the deejay believes he is now quickly matching up to his earlier days.

"I am extremely pleased with everything now. As an artiste, this is what I have been working for. My aim is to become the biggest artiste in the world," said Mr G.

The deejay said he's currently working on a medley video
for the singles Swaggerific and Beat Dem Bad. However, he's yet to release Touch Me This Way, which features former Rising Stars contestant Chrissy.

'The advert has been very significant. What Claro has done now is place Mr G as a major brand in Jamaica because they (Claro) are a major company ... '

Beenie Man drops 8 collabs with friends

(via The Jamaica Observer)

Deejay Beenie Man, buoyed by the success of his hit singles, Rum and Red Bull and I'm Okay, has tackled a new ambitious musical project which he hopes will help to re-define his legacy as a leader and innovator in the world of dancehall.

Beenie Man has enlisted the help of his superstar friends on the musical project he has dubbed Beenie Man and Friends and the result is eight great combination singles, each featuring Beenie Man, on a bouncy dancehall beat.

"No other artiste in the business has ever tried anything like this before. I am writing, arranging and co-producing every song on the riddim, and I am also performing on every song on the riddim," a proud Beenie Man said. "The only thing I haven't done is build the riddim, that was done by Danny Browne."

The project features the talents of artistes such as Khago, D'Angel, Ding Dong, Fambo, Deva Bratt, Kantana, Versatile, Cee Gee and Laden.

"I plan to shoot a video for the single called Time of My Life with D'Angel, and a medley video with all the others, I already have the concept in my head, it is going to be sick," he said, laughing.

This audacious project grew from an idea that Beenie Man had years ago, but he got the raging fever last month and within a week, and a couple of urgent Blackberry pings and messages, he had pulled the critical elements together.

"It is something I had always wanted to do, but I just didn't have the courage to do it at the time. So I just sat down and did it and it all came together. Right now, ah MD time now, Gaza done gone across the world already, now ah MD time," Beenie Man said.

Interestingly, he has been trying to convince one-time nemesis and new-found friend Bounty Killer to participate in the project, but Beenie claims the "logistics of getting him to voice the song is hard".

"Ah mi friend still, but is too much drama to get him to actually voice. Serani voice already, Mavado said he will voice, but I cannot wait on them. In fact, it is up to Bounty, Elephant and Kartel if they want to be on it, mi reach out to them already," he said.

This is a project that is close to his heart, his DNA is embedded in the rhythm itself as his son, Marco Dean lends his voice to the instrumental.

"Marco Dean is on the version, so is not really a song, he is not ready for that yet," he said.

Beenie Man has put a lot of effort into trying to recruit the best and brightest stars in dancehall to put their weight behind the project, but even with the mixed results, he waves off the disappointment as only he can.

"If dem did give me a riddim, mi woulda voice pon it already...mi have my pride," he said.

In the meantime, the project has already been released and the artiste says it is getting excellent rotation on radio.

Beenie Man is scheduled to leave the island today for a two-week tour of the African continent, which will see him performing in the cities of Freetown, Sierra Leone as well as Johanessburg and Cape Town in South Africa.

He returns to the island on December 1, after which he is set to do a three-city swing through Canada.

Fantan returns to Downsound

(via The Jamaica Star)

Like the prodigal son, Fantan Mojah says he has returned to Downsound Records.

Fantan, whose real name is Owen Moncrieffe, left the Downsound Records family in 2006 after a public split in which he relieved the company of all his booking duties. But now the artiste says he is ready to rekindle a good relationship
with the company.

"A nuh decide fi return, a good sheep neva stray very far from the flock. We set a foundation, so we a go back go set it pon a bigger level. Fantan have a career weh mi need help wid it. Me and Downsound have a chemistry," said the artiste, who recently completed a two-month European tour.

This time around, Fantan says the partnership will be better.

"We have a lot of experience in the business and we know how to approach it now. Mi come back to Downsound with the skill weh mi build up a road," he said, noting that he will be managed and booked by the record company but he also has an outside booking agent.

CEO of Downsound Records, Joseph Bogdanovich, said he believes Fantan is sincere with his decision to return.

"He has a different point of view and actively wants to come back. I think it's more a businesslike and he's certainly learned a lot about the business. I hope he has got to be more responsible and will honour contracts and deliver what he's supposed to. I think maturity is the difference," Bogdanovich told THE STAR.

In the same breath, Bogdanovich also lauded Fantan's work, saying: "I've always liked Fantan. He's very confident and he delivers a superior stage show. He loves to entertain and people love him."

Since the reunion, Fantan has already done a few songs with Downsound Records. One of them is Call My Name.

"I think he has a hit record with this if people accept him and play his record," Bogdanovich said.

Fantan also has another song with Downsound Records called Been Through The Fire. He said he is also working on an album that he hopes to release by early next year.

In addition, Fantan says he is actively promoting Richie Melody, an artiste from his own Macka Tree label.

Gyptian takes Soul Train Award

(via Jamaica Observer)

Reggae artiste Gyptian copped another major award on Wednesday night. He beat out five other nominees in the Best Reggae Artiste category of the 2010 Soul Train Music Awards.

The Soul Train accolade comes closely on the heels of the UK's MOBO award that the singer won a few weeks ago.

Gyptian was in high spirits shortly after he won the Soul Train statuette. "This is an awesome feeling. Two awards in one year, I am really fortunate to have won," Gyptian said in a telephone interview on Thursday morning.

His manager Ivor Ruddock was equally excited about the win. "We have been working hard and it is now paying off. This award is another encouragement for us," he noted.

Gyptian performed a medley of his current hits Hold Yuh and Nah Let Go during the Soul Train awards telecast. "It was a great performance. I even had backup dancers," the dreadlocked artiste told Splash.

The singer has been on a roll this year since the success of his smash single Hold Yuh dented various Billboard charts stateside and internationally.

He recently completed a guest performance slot on rhythm and blues singer Mary J Blige's UK tour. 'That was a great platform for me and it exposed me to a wider audience', Gyptian commented.

Gyptian will head into the studios over the next couple of weeks to record a collaboration with R&B singer Ne Yo.

Damian Marley, Mr Vegas, Jah Cure, Vybz Kartel and Gramps Morgan were the other reggae acts nominated alongside Gyptian.

Mavado and Kartel shared prison cell

Singjay Mavado feels that police's action of detaining him on Wednesday has severely affected his attempt for several months to clean up his image.

Mavado, whose real name is David Brooks, and deejay Vybz Kartel were released by the police yesterday afternoon after spending a night in jail. Both men had turned themselves in at the Constant Spring Police Station on Wednesday, after being identified as persons of interest through a release from the Constabulary Communication Network.

On Tuesday night upon hearing the news that he was listed as a person of interest, Mavado had claimed that he was being targeted by a specific police officer.

Hours after his release, Mavado said that he believes it's unfair that he was listed as a person of interest. The artiste said that upon going to the station he was questioned by a number of police officers and was later placed in the same jail cell as Kartel.

He said, "afta me go in dere and talk to di police, di police don't want me fi nutting. Wha me do? Me nuh do nutten or else dem wouldn't let me out and tell me fi gwaan home
. Yuh can definitely see that is a fight dem a try fight Mavado and try dutty up Mavado name. Me a try hold it fi di last one year, me a try do my best wha me can do to keep outta problem and di bagga tings people have to sey."

In recent times the singjay has taken a notably positive approach to his music. In the beginning of his career he coined himself as a 'gangsta fi life' but now has started to sing more socially conscious songs such as Change Right Now, Messiah, Nine Life and more. He has also been behind recent peace initiatives in his community of Cassava Piece and the building of a library and community
centre there.

Mavado added, "Me always jus a try do good, me as David Brooks even when we get fight, we still a get stronger and know sey we haffi do good, we haffi do betta. Cause at di end of the day we nah go mek the fans lose offa we, and di people lose offa we. The whole Jamaica suppose to know that David Brooks is a law biding citizen, cause if I wasn't I'd be in jail, you'd hear ma name a call up on a bagga tings. Nobody don't hear my name call pon nutten."

For the artiste, he says he and his management and legal team are considering taking legal action against the police in an effort to prevent further discrediting of his name. According to Mavado, taking legal action is something he had also discussed with Kartel as he said, "me and Vybz Kartel already talk about it. Me tell Vybz Kartel wha me ago do, and mi feel like a di same way him a think cause this definitely not good."

For the singer, however, it's back to business as usual as he was on his way to the studio. He says fans can look out for songs with him from producer Stephen McGregor, a collaboration with Chase Cross and a remix of a Future Fambo song.

'Charge or release Mavado' — lawyer challenges cops

Chris Tavares-Finson, the attorney representing David 'Mavado' Brooks, has filed a writ of habeas corpus in court, asking the police to either charge or release his client.

A summons was served on the police this morning.

Mavado, along with fellow dancehall artiste Adijah 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer, spent the night in jail, after the police asked them to turn themselves in as persons of interest.

Tavares-Finson said the date on the application is set for tomorrow which means that if his client is not charged, police will have to attend court to explain why he was not released.

Both Mavado and Kartel are still being questioned by cops from the St Andrew North Police Division.

Police say both men wield considerable influence in the communities of Big Yard and Cassava Piece which run off Mannings Hill Road. The cops say they are to be questioned in connection with several serious crimes that have been committed in the communities in recent times.

Kartel, Mavado in police custody

Popular dancehall deejays Mavado and Vybz Kartel spent last night behind bars after they turned themselves in to the St Andrew North Police yesterday.

Mavado, whose real name is David Brooks, and Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adijah Palmer, were named as "persons of interest" by the police on Tuesday. The police said they wanted to interview both men about a series of serious crimes that have been committed in sections of the St Andrew North Police Division. Both were ordered to attend the Constant Spring Police Station by 3:00 pm yesterday.

Kartel was the first to show. He turned up minutes after 9 in the morning, accompanied by his attorney Valerie Neita-Robinson.

Hours later, close to noon, his rival in the dancehall Mavado turned himself in. He was escorted by his attorney Christian Tavares-Finson.

Both deejays will be interviewed in the presence of their attorneys today.

Future Fambo delivers in Canada

(via The Jamaica Observer)

Definitely the 'Comeback Kid for the year 2010', deejay Future Fambo's career is moving from strength to strength. With his fan base growing since the release earlier this year of his Seanizzle-produced hit Rum And Red Bull, (featuring Beenie Man), Fambo's demand has spiked.

The deejay, known for his energetic on-stage presence, recently returned to Jamaica from a two-show trip to Canada, where he had fans in a frenzy as he worked the stage like a pro. Dubbed Reggaelution, the shows were staged by PFB Entertainment on October 29 inside the Government Entertainment Complex in Toronto and the following night in Montreal. Both shows were well supported and kudos to the promoters for proper stage management and good time control.

Of course, Fambo's international hit Rum And Red Bull proved to be a favourite mix, despite the fact that 'Doctor', Beenie Man, wasn't there in person to sing the hook. However, Future Fambo's delivery was on point and, as the self-proclaimed Drunken Master of the Dancehall, he delighted patrons with his infectious Swaggaholic style and song of the same name.

Also a hit with the Canadian massive was the single Pop Bottle, and Fambo made sure to work it with the crowd. Before he exited centre stage, the deejay called on stage Supa Hype, much to the delight of patrons who enjoyed the extra treat.

Although Fambo didn't get to perform This Life in Toronto, he gave it to the Montreal fans without holding back any emotion and this proved a sobering moment during the Drunken Master's act.

It was obvious that the deejay himself was having fun on stage and he was able to convey that element to the patrons, many of whom danced and sang with hands in the air as Future Fambo took time to thank them for the opportunity to perform for them.

Future Fambo was one of six acts including Supa Hype and the Big Ship Crew of Laden, Chino, Stephen Di Genius and captain of the Big Ship, Freddie McGregor contracted to perform at both shows. Fambo opened for Freddie who was the headliner.

During an interview after his performance, an excited Fambo expressed his joy at being able to totally satisfy his Canadian fans and his pleasant surprise at the response to his singles.

"Right now, it's Fambo's Canada," he said with a laugh. "My job was to get the crowd excited and give them their money's worth and for me it was mission accomplished," Fambo said, adding, "I am on a natural high. It is so overwhelming. About eight months ago Freddie (McGregor) said to me 'Fambo, you going to be blessed this year' and I am proving that now," the deejay said soberly.

Buju Banton out on bail

(via The Jamaica Observer)

Reggae artiste Buju Banton this afternoon walked out of the Pinellas County Jail in Tampa, Florida after he was granted bail in an immigration court. Banton has been in jail since December last year when he was arrested for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilogrammes of cocaine.

A member of his legal team, Marc Seitles, said the artiste was overjoyed that he gained some measure of freedom.

"Buju can’t wait to have a nice meal and sleep in his own bed,” Seitle said.

In September, Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, was left pondering his fate after a 12-member jury could not reach a unanimous decision about his innocence or guilt.

He will be retried in February next year.

Banton met the conditions bail set by US magistrate Anthony Porcelli after his friend and son of Reggae King Bob Marley, Stephen Marley, put up his US$300,000 house as collateral.

Myrie will have to wear a tracking device and will be under 24-hour surveillance from a security company. He has also signed an extradition waiver and will not be allowed to leave the Middle District of Souther District of Florida until his trial begins.

He will only be allowed to visit a doctor and his lawyer.

Also he must submit himself to urine tests to prove that he is not using banned substances.

Chedda's life threatened?

(via The Jamaica Star)

Upcoming dancehall artiste Chedda claims that he is in fear for his life after receiving death threats.

The latest threat, he said, were received yesterday over the telephone as well as BlackBerry messages sent to his mobile.

Chedda, known for songs such as Fake Jeans Admit It, said the threats are coming as a result of an incident that occurred recently between T'Jean Bennett, a producer at UIM Records, and the deejay. As a result of the incident, Chedda said he had to seek medical attention at the Andrews Hospital, St Andrew.

According to the deejay, whose real name is Tyrello Johnson, 'bad blood' has been brewing between the two entities ever since he decided to distance himself from the group because of what he describes as a high level of unprofesssionalism. He said he thinks it is important that he informs the public and his fans as to what is happening.

"Dem a mek threat a call mi phone a seh a di wrong man mi attack and mi ago dead, mi ago get gunshot," Chedda told THE WEEKEND STAR yesterday. "Wi deh pon di road a promote di new song Bad Inna Gang. Mi a walk down one corridor wid a lady when mi see him and him look up and see me too. When him a pass mi im push di lady out a di way an thump mi inna di side a mi head. Wi deh deh a tussle fi a while until my manager see wah a gwaan an come a try get him offa me." He continued, "When him finally get him off, him draw one long knife and start run mi dung. Mi anuh steel man or nutten suh same time mi run off. Mi see one fire extinguisher pon di wall an a try tek it off fi defend miself and im cut offa mi and buss up di whole a mi finga. Im cut offa mi agen and mi affi kick im off mi fi get weh."

When contacted, Bennett said there was no truth to any of the accusations. "Mi nuh send no threat to Chedda no time. Mi and Andrew do everything fi Chedda. Mi nuh have no reason fi waan follow up Chedda."

He gave his account of the fight saying, "Mi see Chedda a walk down the hallway and when him see mi him middle the hallway so mi woulda haffi nudge him when mi a pass. Suh when dat happen now, same time mi grab him and a likkle tussle start. Him fren dem did deh round di corner and dem run come. Dem neva did a try part di fight, dem a tump afta me, but end up all a tump up Chedda too. Mi have mi knife pon mi an neva draw it, a when dem bring mi inna one room and pop off mi chain an fling it pon mi, mi back mi knife an dem run, him a try tek off the extinguisher an cut him hand an tell everybody seh mi stab him an cut him."

Bennett, known for his production work on the single, Fresh To Death, said that a meeting is being set up between himself, Chedda and Chedda's manager to quell the differences between the two.

The threats and attack Chedda said were reported to the Half-Way Tree and Cross Roads police stations, respectively.

Blood brothers hammer new video

(via The Jamaica Star)

If anyone has ever considered aiming a hammer at a woman, or anyone else for that matter, they might reconsider after seeing the scenario played out in Andrew and Wada Blood's newly released video,Di Hammer.

The video, which was shot over the weekend, shortly after the duo returned from the San Antonio Reggae Fest in Texas last week, depicts what a loving relationship versus an abusive one should look like. The video which begins with a statement from the duo, "It's every man's responsibility to love and protect all women. We strongly condemn violence against women", goes on to depict an actor who, coincidentally bears a striking resemblance to dancehall artiste, Bounty Killer, who allegedly struck his female companion with a hammer recently.

"This song was a track we did a long time ago and we recently changed some of the words. It is not about anyone in particular, but we want to say abuse is never a situation people should take lightly. As men and women, we always have people who will make us angry, but you have to know when enough is enough and walk away either from the situation until you calm down or from the relationship completely. Abuse is not something we condone and, with a recent incident, there were a lot of jokes
about abuse and how it was done. So we did the video and when some people saw it, even on youtube, that's when it really hit home to some fans about how serious any kind of abuse can be. As the song says, no one would want that done to people dem love," said the duo.

In addition, Andrew and Wada Blood's recent track, Irie, continues to climb the charts in the USA and Europe, receiving heavy rotation on television stations and websites. "Irie is a hit here, but people can't imagine how big it is abroad. When people overseas hear it, it just gives them this crazy vibe to juss jump and throw dem hands in the air and juss dance. So we want to say bless-up to the fans for the support and to look out for our album that we will be dropping in a short while," said Wada Blood.

Reggae Star Gregory Isaacs Dies at 59

Reggae singer Gregory Isaacs has died at his London home aged 59 after a lengthy battle with cancer. His family was with him until the end.

Best known for his 1982 hit, 'Night Nurse', Isaacs' smoother style of reggae epitomised the Lovers Rock sub-genre but he'd been recording since entering the Jamaican music scene in his teens. Isaacs' career began in the late 1960s and he later came to prominence in the following decade as a roots singer whose sufferer's songs gave him his first public recognition.

By the second half of the decade, Issacs' reputation as the Cool Ruler was sealed as his move into Lovers Rock overtook his roots material.

Isaacs had been diagnosed with liver cancer a year ago and the illness subsequently spread across the rest of his body.

His wife, Linda, said in a statement, "Gregory was well-loved by everyone, his fans and his family, and he worked really hard to make sure he delivered the music they loved and enjoyed. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends."

A prolific recording artist, it is estimated that Issacs had released over 50 albums since the start of his career and his last album, 'Brand New Me,' was released in 2008.

Legal pot means big savings on law enforcement

Cash-strapped California would get some relief by legalizing pot, but the biggest boost would be thanks to massive law enforcement cuts, not new tax revenue, experts say.

The state's marijuana legalization initiative known as Proposition 19 goes to the polls on Nov. 2. And there's been a lot of talk about taxing it to rescue the state from its budget woes. But even legalization's top advocates say the drug won't be a financial cure-all.

"No one's promising that this is going to solve everything economically," said Quintin Mecke, spokesman for Assembly Member Tom Ammiano, D-San Francisco, who was the lead sponsor on two earlier efforts to legalize marijuana.

Most of the financial benefit would actually come from budget cuts - which means job cuts -- according to a report from the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank in Washington, D.C. The institute estimates that legalization could add $1.312 billion annually to California's coffers. But the forecast's breakdown calls for a savings of $960 million in law enforcement costs and an additional $352 million in tax revenue.

Jeffrey Miron, a senior lecturer at Harvard University and senior fellow at the Cato Institute who co-authored the study, said the majority of the cost savings would be a result of cuts to law enforcement personnel whose services would no longer be required. And axing police officers, prison guards, prosecutors and judges would hurt the job market, at least initially, he said.

Dale Gieringer, director of the California chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, otherwise known as NORML, has a more optimistic take on potential tax revenue, but even he says it will be a very long time before the state sees any of those funds.

Gieringer said that taxes from medical marijuana total about $100 million annually, and that based on that, Prop 19 could bring in about $500 million in annual sales taxes for the state.

But that's going to take years to kick in, even if Prop 19 passes in November, he said. Local governments considering legalization will take some time to consider the benefits of additional tax revenue versus the threat of federal lawsuits, since the drug would still be illegal under federal law.

Gieringer added that medical marijuana was legalized in California in 1996, but said it took another eight or nine years to spread across the state.

"I'm assuming that we're looking at a similar long term phase-in of Prop 19," he said. "It's going to be many years, if 19 passes, before it's going to take effect on the whole state."

TANTO BLACKS STABBED 3 TIMES - Allegedly attacked by tenant

(via The Jamaica Star)

Fast rising dancehall artiste Tanto Blacks was stabbed at least three times last Friday night, after he had an altercation with another man.

"A pure stab reach inna me back ... unno coulda hear seh Tanto Blacks dead," he told THE STAR.

Tanto explained that he was stabbed after he had asked the man, who he said is his friend, to vacate a place he had rented to him. He said he rented the place to the man for a while now but recently gave him an eviction notice.

According to Tanto, the tenant was reluctant to leave and decided to stay despite being given adequate time to leave and identify somewhere else.

Tanto said last Friday, he confronted the man who showed no immediate sign of wanting to leave. He said he went into the house and began removing the blades from a window when he was stabbed in his back. "Him stab me up and then him run ... him stab me three times," Tanto said. "A 17 years me know this yute yah and him stab me inna mi back inna mi own place."

A report was made to the police and following investigations, the alleged assaulter was arrested and charged. The incident was confirmed by the investigating officer, Constable S Sewell from the Spanish Town Police Station. No immediate court date was given.

Tanto received treatment at the Spanish Town Hospital before getting additional treatment at a private medical practice. "Me alright inno ... me glad seh him deh a jail ... me no wah nothing happen to him," he told THE STAR.

Ryno in Police Custody

(via The Jamaica Star)

Deejay Blak Ryno was yesterday taken into police custody following an altercation with Corey Todd, a business partner
of Vybz Kartel, at a Corporate Area supermarket.

There are, however, conflicting stories concerning the physical altercation.

Speaking with THE STAR, Todd explained that he and his wife were in the supermarket shopping when his wife was approached by Ryno. Todd said, "he saw my wife in the store and came to her and said 'is yuh is Corey Todd wife?' She never said anything to him and he later came by the counter where I was cashing and said, 'why yuh nah play my music in da club'?"

According to Todd, Ryno stormed outside and returned with a knife. "He came up to me wid di knife and said '....yuh gonna dead'. He got in my face and I pushed him off. He pulled the knife and tried coming at me wid it. I jumped back and grabbed him by the neck and had him on the ground when the security came and he (Ryno) ran and left the knife." Todd said he sustained a minor cut to his back.

Todd and Kartel have partnered to bring 'Street Vybz Thursdays' to the Building in New Kingston. When asked about Ryno's accusation that his music wasn't being played in the Building Todd said, "Mi nuh know bout dat, it's up to the selectors what gets played, they play what's hot, and he has no hot songs."

In a press release sent to THE STAR yesterday, however, Ryno told a completely different story. According to the release, Ryno and his babymother were shopping at the supermarket when they were attacked by Todd.

The release states that Ryno was exiting the facility when he was confronted by Todd who immediately assumed an aggressive posture towards the artiste with the statement,'Go ....' and proceeded to shove him, further stating "Weh yuh ago do, you know how we thing set pon the Gaza."

The release stated, "Ryno, forced to defend himself, got into a physical altercation with the man but it was quickly brought under control by the store's security detailing. However, the melee did not end there as the irate man and his female companion, who were still inside the store, then turned on Ryno's babymother inflicting several blows to her in the process." The babymother reportedly suffered minor cuts and bruises.

The artiste in the release says he doesn't know why the man and his companion attacked him and his babymother.

Checks by THE STAR found that a report was submitted to the Half-Way Tree police, who have commenced their investigations.

When THE STAR went to the Half-Way Tree Police Station some time after 5 p.m. yesterday, both Todd and his wife were seen there.

Head of the station, Superintendent Derrick 'Cowboy' Knight, was said to be unavailable but a police source who was seen speaking with Todd's wife said Blak Ryno was subsequently taken into custody following the altercation and may be charged.

"Yes, man, we have him, he's in there," the source said while pointing to a locked door to a room in which the artiste was reportedly being held.

The source then continued, "He is going to be charged, he cannot act like that."

This is the second incident in recent times that the deejay's name has been associated with. Selector Boom Boom was allegedly beaten at an Uptown Mondays dance in early September by persons who, he said, are affiliates of Ryno. Ryno later denied any involvement in the incident.

Todd, however, says he plans to attempt a ban on Ryno's music in the media. He said, "I'm calling for a ban on his music on radio and TV. I'm the second person he has attacked because of music. So I'm gonna call all the radio stations. I also plan to contact the US embassy, because I'm a US citizen and he attacked a US citizen."

Blak Ryno left the Kartel-led Portmore Empire earlier this year and has since changed his name to 'Ryno Di Stinga.'

Mistrial declared in case against Buju Banton

A mistrial was declared Monday afternoon in the drug trial of reggae star Buju Banton. Jurors informed the judge today that after three days of deliberations they are split.

"We are still split on a decision and after reviewing evidence, nobody has changed their minds from our original vote on Thursday," said a note delivered to the judge from the jurors.

U.S. District Judge James Moody implored jurors to continue working on a verdict.

Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, has been held in jail since December on drug conspiracy charges.

Wyclef Hospitalized, Blames "Stress and Fatigue"

Wyclef Jean was hospitalized over the weekend at an undisclosed location due to "symptoms of stress and fatigue,” Jean’s rep told CNN. The musician has since been released, and his rep added that Jean “will be fine – just needs the space to recover.”

The 37-year-old has had “an extremely grueling three months–truly an exhausting eight months, since the earthquake when he recommitted himself to our homeland and his passion for our people,” his rep explained further in a statement.

The former Fugee “is currently suffering the effects of lack of sleep and stress, global travel, even the endless public eye, and has asked that his fans and supporters bear with him for the next several days as he regains his physical health and stamina.”

Jean is planning to head back to work a week from today, and “will be back out in front of the crusade to rebuild Haiti and his pledge to make it even better for business,” according to the statement.

The artist announced his intent to run for president of Haiti in August, but was deemed ineligible. Jean officially ended his bid for presidency last week. In a statement, he said fans can expect a new album, "If I Were President, the Haitian Experience," in February.

Jamaican Wins $54 Million Lottery Jackpot

She's been homeless, bankrupt, a robbery victim and assaulted on the job -- but radiant Rikers Island guard Garina Fearon now has 54 million glorious reasons to start living la dolce vita.

The 34-year-old single mom from East New York, Brooklyn, who has endured a lifetime of hardship and poverty, told The Post she's the mystery winner of last Friday's Mega Millions drawing.

"I wanted a better life. I was struggling as a single parent," a beaming Fearon said yesterday. "I've really come back from nothing."

She never imagined such joy was possible when she was down to her last $25 six years ago and forced to file for bankruptcy.

Hard times struck again two years later, when burglars robbed her apart ment while she was at work guarding danger ous inmates.

Fearon, who spent part of her youth in a homeless shelter with no stable family, went on to endure sickening abuse from the monsters in her care.

"She's had feces thrown in her face and on her uniform in the years that she's been there," said a fellow jail guard. "She's a tough young lady."

How she won is as re markable as her change of fortune.

Fearon said she bought the wrong ticket at a Sutter Ave nue bodega, where she went to play Powerball, not Mega Millions.

"I only play every six months or so," said Fearon, who has a 16-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter.

She held on to the ticket all weekend, and didn't think about it until Monday, when she asked a co-worker for a newspaper. She scribbled the winning numbers on the back of an inmate pass as her shift ended.

As she waited for the bus, she made the amazing discovery.

"I was about to fold up the lottery ticket," Fearon said. "Then I saw the numbers, and I started running from one part of the parking lot to the other screaming."

She still hasn't come down from her high.

"I don't know what I'm going to do," she said. "It's something unexpected."

The first thing on her "to-do" list was to talk to supervisors at the Correction Department. She said she feels too loyal to the job to let it go, even with all that money coming her way.

"I'm going to go to my job to get some days off," Fearon said. "I don't want to resign."

Fearon said it was her correction career that rescued her from her financial ruin.

Her top priority is taking care of her ailing mom.

"I'm from Jamaica," Fearon said. "I have a sick mother. She has diabetes, and I'm going to buy my mom a house in Jamaica."

Fearon said she will take the lump-sum option, which will pay her about $30 million before taxes. Beyond that, she's not sure what she'll do next.

"I don't know anything about all this kind of money," she said.

Buju awaits verdict - African-American juror falls ill

(via The Jamaica Observer)

A 13-member panel of jurors are now deliberating whether to find Reggae artiste Buju Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, guilty or innocent of conspiracy with intent to distribute five kilogrammes of cocaine.

A female African-American juror fell ill and will not take part in this afternoon's deliberation.

The jury retired at 12:40 pm.

Myrie's attorney David Oscar Markus in his final argument, told the jurors that his client was innocent and asked them to return a not guilty verdict.

"Ladies and gentlemen, he is not guilty. Mr Myrie is not a drug dealer. Please, Please find him not guilty. Not because he was at the warehouse when the drugs were being inspected means he is guilty of the conspiracy charge against him," Markus said.

Markus argued that the government could not prove its case against Myrie and pointed to the Drug Enforcement Agency's Daniel McCeaffrey's testimony that despite investigating the artiste for a year he could find no evidence against him. Markus also painted US government informant Alexander Johnson as a 'master manipulator and con man'.

"To him this was a pay day. This guy was looking for his jackpot. This is how he makes a living," Markus said.

Lead prosecutor Jim Preston countered Markus' claims by telling the jurors that Myrie was 'neck deep' in the conspiracy to distribute cocaine and said it was his fault why his co-defendants James Mack and Ian Thomas were arrested. Preston said Thomas was brought into the deal by Myrie.

During his address to the jury, Preston walked over to Myrie and pointed at him for emphasis.

Thomas was expected to testify this morning but was not called to the witness stand by Markus.

"We felt we had it without him," Markus told the Observer.

Presiding Judge Jim Moody in his summation to the jury, instructed them that not because Banton was on the spot when the contraband was being inspected meant he was guilty of conspiracy. He instructed them to carefully weigh the evidence of a convicted person or a government informant because they may have a motive to give false statements.

He also informed the jury that their decision had to be unanimous to stand and instructed them that in cases of entrapment they had to find Myrie not guilty if he was not previously willing or if it was because a Government agent enticed him, they should return a not guilty verdict.

Buju speaks

(via The Jamaica Gleaner)

The chatty man drinking red wine with reggae star Buju Banton on a flight from Madrid, Spain, to Miami in the United States seemed to have important music industry connections so, the singer told a court in Tampa, Florida, yesterday, he tried to impress with made-up ambitions of drug trafficking when the talk turned to cocaine.

Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, was giving testimony in a Tampa federal court where he is facing charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and aiding and abetting two others in possessing a firearm during the course of cocaine distribution. He faces up to life in prison.

The man, Alexander Johnson, was an undercover United States government informant. Buju said he liked Johnson, but he was only looking to secure a new distribution contract - not a cocaine deal.

"I'm just a humble musician. I was talking over my head," the four-time Grammy-nominated musician declared. "I was trying to impress this guy and that's what got me in this hot seat right now."

Johnson has testified that Buju admitted involvement in drug trafficking, and he wanted to give Johnson money so he could buy and sell cocaine. Their recorded conversations were played Tuesday for the jury.

The 37-year-old Rastafarian took the stand yesterday in a grey suit jacket, his long dreadlocks tied up in a braid. He said Johnson initiated their conversation about drugs on the plane in July 2009.

Buju said he made up ambitions to deal cocaine to one-up Johnson, who was talking about cocaine and marijuana deals of his own, alongside a legitimate seafood business and music industry contacts in Los Angeles.

When they met for lunch at a Fort Lauderdale restaurant the next day and at a hotel a few days later, it was Johnson who brought up cocaine, Buju said.

Buju said he never wanted nor expected Johnson to set up a cocaine deal, despite what he said in the recordings. The singer had told Johnson that he financed drug deals, wanted to sell drugs in Europe, buy drugs from the Caribbean and South America and use Johnson's boat to transport drugs.

"I talk too much, but I am not a drug dealer," Buju told the court.

Buju said he was surprised when the informant presented him with cocaine at an undercover police warehouse in Sarasota on December 8. Surveillance video shows Buju peering over co-defendant Ian Thomas' shoulder at the cocaine, and the singer tasting the drugs with a finger.

The singer said he thought Johnson was going to show him his boat and offices.

"When I realised this was real drugs, I thought, 'This is a real drug dealer, and I want no part of it'," Buju said. "I was in over my head."

Under cross-examination yesterday by Markus, Johnson said the cocaine was a "surprise showing".

Johnson said he continued to pursue a cocaine deal with Banton, even though the singer repeatedly cancelled meetings and rushed him off the phone, if he answered Johnson's calls at all.

"I needed him to come to me," Johnson said. "I was doing the job I was doing from day one."

Buju said he avoided Johnson's calls afterward, and he did not know Thomas would try to set up a drug deal with Johnson on December 10.

That day, Thomas and another co-defendant, James Mack, were arrested at the warehouse. Buju was arrested at his Miami-area home.

Thomas and Mack have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Each faces up to life in prison.

Assistant US Attorney James Preston asked Buju what he thought he would gain by lying about his involvement in drug trafficking.

"I know you want to paint me bad," Buju replied. "If I was a drug dealer, I would have taken the plea deal you offered me."

Another reggae singer testified yesterday for Banton.

Stephen Marley, one of music legend Bob Marley's sons, told jurors that in the 19 years he has been friends and played music with Buju, he has never known him to traffic in cocaine.

'A nuh Killa mi a talk!' - Lisa Hyper says new song was not about Bounty

Although Bounty Killer is currently in jail on wounding charges, female artiste Lisa Hyper says her new song 'No Beat Up' is not in reference to him.

"A nuh Killa mi a talk, a real ting mi a talk. It is just coincidental that Bounty commit such an act by the time the song supposed to come out," she said, noting that the demo for the song was done about three days ago.

"Certain things Lisa Hyper is finished with. That song definitely not going out to Bounty."

In the song, Lisa Hyper said, "No beat up mi nah tek no beat up/ Any day him lick mi a deh so mi erupt/ After mi a nuh punching bag fi him beat mi/ Is like yuh waan mi lef yuh and go find another man/ Then send yuh go Bellevue go mad/ Di Hennessy drinking yuh need fi quit it/ If mi deh wid yuh mi life ago sticky/ So mi stay single and party wid Nicky."

Bounty Killer was arrested and charged with wounding after a woman turned up at the Constant Spring Police Station and reported that the deejay used a hammer to abuse her over the weekend. It is reported that the woman had to be given 19 stitches and her body had marks associated with being beaten.

Only last April, he spent several weeks in police lock-ups after he was charged with beating his girlfriend and threatening her while he was at the police station. However, the matter was removed from the courts after the girlfriend said she did not wish to continue.

Despite the contents of the song, Lisa Hyper said she wants to take a different path, a change from the negative one she was previously on.

"People already know Lisa Hyper. Now we a move on to bigger and better things. We don't always want to paint a bad picture. You don't always want to give the people dem a bad impression. Even the baby fi can sing my song dem," she told THE STAR, noting that she is an 'artiste of the week' on Stampede Street Charts.

In the meantime, Lisa Hyper said she has been busy doing work with producers like Cashflow, Arrows Recording, Coppershot Disco, Truckback Records and Black Spade. She also has other recent releases like Night Nurse and It's Over.

Minor setback for Buju

(via The Jamaica Observer)

The defence in the Buju Banton trial suffered a minor setback this morning when a possible witness pleaded the Fifth Amendment, deciding not to testify on behalf of the Jamaican singer.

The defence had requested that James Mack, Buju's former co-accused, give evidence for him, but Mack, fearful that he might jeopardise his chances of getting a lighter sentence, opted not to.

Mack was arrested in December 2009 the same day that Buju, whose given name is Mark Myrie, was arrested and slapped with cocaine charges.

He recently copped a plead deal for a lighter sentence. Also arrested along with Mack in a sting operation was Ian Thomas, who also copped a plea deal. Both men will be sentenced in November.

Reacting to the development, Buju's lawyer David Markus expressed some disappointment as he spoke with the Observer.

"He would have helped," Markus said.

Meanwhile, Markus continued his grilling of Alexander Johnson, the prosecution's main witness.

Markus, with his line of questioning painted a picture of a man who was in financial debt and was pushing to entrap Buju because of the money he stood to earn from the case, if the entertainer was arrested.

The court was told that Johnson was behind on his credit card bills, mortgage payment and owed the US government over $100,000 in taxes.

Markus pointed out from transcripts of Johnson's recorded conversations with Buju, that he was the one constantly bringing up talks of drugs and that the entertainer was not interested.

Johnson also said that he did not inform Buju that he was going to look at drugs on December 8 when the entertainer was caught on tape tasting the cocaine. He said the artiste was under the impression that he was going to see a sailboat he (Johnson) owned.

Buju was arrested at his home at Tamarac, South Florida hours after his former co-accused Thomas and Mack, were arrested during an alleged drug bust in an undercover operation at a warehouse in Sarasota, Florida in December last year.

All three were charged with conspiracy to possess more than five kilogrammes of cocaine with intent to distribute, while Mack was charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offence.

The drug charge carries a minimum sentence of 20 years to life in addition to a fine of up to US$4 million, while the firearm charge carries a sentence of five years to life and a fine of up to US$250,000.

Both Mack and Thomas, in their plea deals, have agreed to give evidence to assist the US Government in building a case against Banton, in exchange for lesser sentences.

'One Day' riddim reaps rewards

(via The Jamaica Star)

Its success was not planned and the production time was certainly short, but producer Seanizzle has been getting several hits off his 'One Day' rhythm which was released earlier this year.

The producer said he made the rhythm on April 22, and by April 25 it was ready for release.

"All of the songs were recorded in one day. My song on it was called One Day and the rhythm was made in one day. When mi look pon everything, mi seh this must be a sign, so mi just call it 'One Day'," he told THE STAR, saying recording started at 10 a.m. and finished 3:30 a.m. the following morning.

The songs on the rhythm - many of which are hits -include Seanizzle's One Day, Beenie Man's I'm Ok, Mr G's Swaggerific, ZJ Liquid's Wifey Walk Out, Khago's Nah Sell Out, Twin of Twins' Don't Tell Nobody and Future Fambo's I'm Drinking Rum, featuring Beenie Man. Afterwards, he produced Gary Snipes' Poor No More.

Although it was not planned, Seanizzle said he believed the rhythm would have reaped some level of success.

"I felt it from I was building the rhythm. I just think it is my time where this is concerned. All of the songs, I felt it from my heart that they were hits," he said.

"It's a tremendous feeling. I've been doing this for a while now. This is just one of the rhythms I've been waiting on to take me to the level I want to be at."

He has followed up the 'One Day' with 'Split Personality' rhythm, which premiered over the weekend. The rhythm is jam-packed with 15 songs from artistes like Beenie Man, Pretty Kitty, Mavado, Serani, Seanizzle, Ryno, Mr G, Charly Black, Future Fambo, Lukie D, Baby Chris, Dreama, G-Whizz, Richie Stephens, ZJ Liquid, O-Octane, Zamunda and Tony Matterhorn.

"It look like the next banger. I think it's gonna be bigger than 'One Day'. The songs are really catchy and they have some unique stuff about it. It have a different kind of vibe and personality, so that's why it get the name," Seanizzle told THE STAR.

Beenie to answer to LA Lewis assault charge

(via The Jamaica Star)

Dancehall artiste Moses 'Beenie Man' Davis faced the court yesterday to answer to the charge, assault occasioning bodily harm.

Davis was charged along with Jeremy Wade, otherwise known as 'Rolex', who was charged with assault at common law, for an incident involving Horace 'LA' Lewis.

It was alleged that on June 5, Davis assaulted fellow entertainer Lewis after they were involved in a minor car accident.

Lewis said he was travelling along Perkins Boulevard, near Red Hills Road, when the incident occurred.

He said Davis had stopped his car in the road so that he could converse with another motorist.

Lewis claimed he was attempting to drive past the cars when a section of his car hit Davis' vehicle, after which, Davis allegedly exited his vehicle and assaulted him.

According to Lewis, Davis had the support of his entourage to aid in the assault, which resulted in him being hit in the face.

Wade was also alleged to be a part of Davis' entourage on the day in question.

Lewis had reported the incident to the Duhaney Park Police Station. An officer there confirmed Lewis had made a report against Davis, accusing him of assault occasioning bodily harm.

Davis will return to court on November 17 when the matter will go to trial.

Wyclef Jean officially ending bid to become president of Haiti

(via New York Daily News)

Hip-hop star Wyclef Jean announced Tuesday he is officially ending his bid to become president of Haiti.

The Grammy-winning artist, who was born in the quake-ravaged country and raised in Brooklyn, will not challenge an electoral commission that deemed him unqualified to run in the Nov. 28 race.

"After weeks of quiet but painstaking reflection with my wife and daughter, I have chosen to end my bid for the presidency of Haiti," Jean said in a statement.

"This was not an easy conclusion to reach; but it is one that as thoughtfully made, taking into account many, many competing factors and weighing the course that will be advance the healing of the country and help it find the quickest path for recovery."

Wyclef was barred from running in the November elections, along with 14 other candidates, after the electoral commission found he did not meet the entry requirements.

The singer said they believed he had not lived in Haiti for five consecutive years before the election.

He filed an appeal but has now decided to focus on his music instead.

His new album, "If I Were President, the Haitian Experience" is due to be released February 2011, followed by a worldwide tour.

"Some battles are best fought off the field, and that is where we take this now," Wyclef added.

"It's not about my candidacy - this appeal was meant to address the shortcomings of the process for every Haitian.

"Though my run for the presidency was cut short, in this way, I feel it was not in vain; it's something we can use to improve conditions for my Haitian brothers and sisters."

DEA agent testifies in Buju's favour

(via The Jamaica Observer)

rug Enforcement Agent Daniel McCeaffrey, today testified that he had no evidence that Reggae singer Buju Banton, was involved in illicit drug dealing.

McCeaffrey, who gave evidence on the first day of the trial at the Gibbons US Federal Court in downtown Tampa, said there was no evidence that Buju Banton — whose real name is Mark Myrie — received any money from any drug deal.

He also said even though he was investigating Banton for a year, he could find no evidence that the artiste had collected any money from drug dealing.

He made the revelation during cross-examination from Banton's attorney David Markus.

Markus, in his opening salvo, told the 14-member panel of jurors that he would prove that Myrie was not a drug trafficker and had never invested in illicit drug dealing. He said that artiste would waive his right not to testify.

"He's got nothing to hide because the truth is on his side in this case," Markus said.

He said his client's big mistake was that he loved to talk. Markus said Myrie met DEA informant Alexander Johnson, a Colombian national, on a flight from Madrid Spain to Florida last year and during conversation Johnson introduced the subject of drug dealing to him.

He said Myrie had in fact tasted cocaine but that did not qualify him as a drug dealer.

Markus also argued that Myrie did not know about the US$130,000 that his co-defendant James Mack had been held with. The money he said was given to Mack by two men identified as 'Ike' and 'Tike' from Atlanta, Georgia.

The attorney said Mack and Ian Thomas were the ones who were dealing drugs and said his client made a decision not to partake in any deal and went to his Tamarac home in Florida, where he was arrested in December last year.

Mack and Thomas have taken plea deals and have agreed to testify against the artiste. All three are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilogrammes of cocaine. The charge carries a sentence of 20 years to life and a fine of up to US$4 million.

Prosecutor Jim Preston argued that he would prove that Myrie is a known drug dealer who invested in multi-million dollar drug enterprises and he was arrested because he was starting a new venture.

Forensic chemist Alexandra Gongra also gave evidence that the substance that Thomas and Mack were arrested with was cocaine.

Telephone records analyst Donnie Godshoal also gave evidence today.

Dozens of Banton's supporters turned up outside the court to show their solidarity with the four time Grammy nominee.

His former manager Donovan Germaine, VP Records President Chris Chin and Deejay Delly Ranks were also present for the trial.

Bounty remains in jail - Set to appear in court this week

(via The Jamaica Star)

Deejay Rodney 'Bounty Killer' Pryce, should appear in court by Wednesday, following his arrest by police on Saturday night.

Deputy Superintendent Altermoth Campbell of the Constant Spring Police Station, told THE STAR the deejay will remain in custody until his court date.

Pryce was arrested and charged with wounding after a woman turned up at the police station and reported that the deejay used a hammer to abuse her. DSP Campbell said the woman had to be given 19 stitches and her body had marks associated with being beaten.

Deputy Superintendent Altermoth Campbell of the Constant Spring Police Station, told THE STAR the deejay will remain in custody until his court date.

Pryce was arrested and charged with wounding after a woman turned up at the police station and reported that the deejay used a hammer to abuse her. DSP Campbell said the woman had to be given 19 stitches and her body had marks associated with being beaten.

It is reported that the alleged incident took place at Oakland Apartments where the deejay lives.

DSP Campbell says from his experience and based on a trend, he believes some entertainers are having problems handling success. "I truly believe success is their problem," DSP Campbell said.

In speaking specifically to the allegations about the 'Warlord', Campbell said; "Bounty is not a fool, for years he has been doing good songs so he is not a fool."

Last April, Bounty Killer spent several weeks in police lock-ups after he was charged with beating his girlfriend and threatening her while he was at the police station. However, the matter was removed from the courts after the girlfriend said she did not wish to continue.

Future Fambo on a musical high with Rum and Red Bull

(via The Jamaica Observer)

If you happen to see a deejay walking like a 'swaggaholic' and drinking rum and Red Bull, chances are it's Future Fambo. That's because the self-styled Drunken Master of the Dancehall has returned, and if what he says is true, he's here to stay for quite a while.

As the saying goes "three's a charm" and for Fambo, this is the third time he's basking in the adoration of dancehall fans. And he is determined to make this relationship more than a one-night stand, because there is just too much at stake.

"In 1994 I come with Hiyahiyahoo; in 2006 I gave the dancehall Break Dance and now in 2010 I say Rum and Red Bull, I say Swaggaholic and I say This Life" the deejay who used to go by the name Future Troubles stated. "And I have the tune dem stock and pile. Just ask producer Seanizzle," he challenged.

Fambo's fans have welcomed him back with open arms as, according to him, they were just "waiting for a song that represent the artiste and I gave it to them". There is no doubt that the single Rum and Red Bull, featuring Beenie Man, has given Fambo a new lease on life. In fact, life is so good that he has a permanent smile plastered on his face.

"I am finally reaping some rewards financially," he said beaming. "I can buy what I want for my kids...I give my mother a thing and she push it in her bosom and I see her bosom bulge out. She seh to me 'Yes son, I hear the song with you and Beenie Man. I pray for you everyday,' When I see her face and listen to her, I feel good," the deejay said with pride.

And, Fambo isn't even concerned that people are saying that Beenie Man upstaged him by singing the chorus and almost taking over the song. His friendship with Beenie goes way back, and if the Doctor can sing piece of his song and help take it to number one, then Fambo has absolutely no problem with that. He explained that Beenie had come to the studio to voice his own song - I'm Okay -- on the Seanizzle riddim and the collaboration came about by chance.

"Beenie finished voicing his song and I had my verses and part of the chorus. Moses came over and we gwaan vibes and the two of us finish write the hook. Beenie went into the studio to show me where to pitch it and when we play it back it sound good, so me and him and the producer decide to go with it," Fambo said.

According to the artiste, right now he is on a musical high, ready to put dancehall back where it used to be. "I know I have the material and the skill, and although I feel like I am flying high, I still very grounded," Future Fambo declared.

Jury selected for Buju Banton trial

(via The Jamaica Observer)

A 14 member panel of jurors was selected for the trial of Reggae singer Buju Banton in the Gibbons US Court in downtown Tampa this morning. The jury includes seven woman and only two African Americans.

Several jurors were excused because they expressed the view that marijuana should be made legal for medicinal purposes. However, Banton's lawyer David Oscar Markus, said he was satisfied with the make up of the jury.

Banton walked into court a few minutes before the proceedings started in a sports coat and black pants. His locks were caught up in a ponytail and his beard appeared well-groomed.

Six of his relatives and members of his band were also in court. Before the proceedings got underway, they held hands and sent up a prayer. There are also persons who have travelled from Jamaica and Los Angeles to support the artiste.

Banton is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine. His two co-defendants Ian Thomas and James Mack, have signed plea agreements and agreed to testify against him in exchange for lesser sentences.

The prosecution intends to call nine witnesses in a bid to secure a conviction against the artiste, who is registered as Mark Anthony Myrie.

Banton was arrested at his Tamarac home in South Florida in December, the same day Mack and Thomas were held attempting to buy cocaine from federal agents in a police controlled warehouse in Saratoga.

If found guilty Banton could be slapped with a sentence of 20 years to life and a fine of up to US$4 million.

The court is now in recess and evidence is expected to be presented when the trial resumes at 1:30 this afternoon.

Tanto Blacks wants apology - Manager says television interview was distasteful

(via The Jamaica Star)

Producer Cordel 'Skatta' Burrell, manager of Tanto Blacks, is claiming that his artiste deserves an apology from Simon Crosskill for what he believes was a distasteful interview on TVJ's Smile Jamaica last Friday morning.

"I took offence. It was quite evident that Simon Crosskill was trying to belittle the artiste. Everybody deserves some level of respect but I didn't see the artiste getting any from him. I did not get that level of respect or appreciation that you would show to another person. I was very disgusted," Burrell told THE STAR, noting that he did not have a problem with the other interviewer, Neville Bell.

"He was comparing him to L.A. Lewis and Shebada. There is a certain level that you don't cross. So I would like an apology on behalf of the artiste or for him (Crosskill) to acknowledge that he overstepped his boundaries in terms of how he conducted the interview."

A video with parts of the interview have been making the rounds on the Internet, already receiving thousands of views on YouTube. In it, Crosskill asked Tanto Blacks if he took drugs before coming to the show, mimicked him and even encouraged him not to perform on Sting, as "even plastic bottle lick hot." He also said, "somebody seh I mustn't mek you leave here without giving you the directions to Ward 21."

However, Burrell stressed that his grouse is not connected in any way to the RJR Communications Group.

"I am not condemning the RJR group but I saw something that was distasteful and I am making my voice heard," he told THE STAR, adding that many people share his view.

When contacted, executive producer for the morning show did not say much. "I don't have any comment, just tell him (Burrell) to call me," she said.

Meanwhile, Burrell said Tanto Blacks was glad for the opportunity to be on the show but feels that he received some level of mistreatment.

"Him nuh feel like it damage him 'cause he was very grateful to be on the programme. Him acknowledge seh Simon was trying to get under his skin but him hol' it," Burrell said.

"In my eyes, this youth is a star. But whether you think that or not, it does not give you any right to treat him like that."

Conflicting arguments from Buju's co-defendants

(via The Jamaica Star)

Conflicting statements from two men who are jointly charged with Reggae singer Buju Banton may send mixed signals to the US authorities regarding the singer's alleged involvement in drug smuggling.

Ian Thomas, will plead guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilos or more of cocaine, according to an agreement filed yesterday. The charge carries up to life in federal prison.

Buju Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, Thomas and James Mack were arrested by Florida police in December last year after the allegedly attempted to purchase large amounts of cocaine from federal agents in a police controlled wharehouse in Tampa.

Mack however has signed an affidavit that he never knew Buju Banton before his arrest and that the artist had no knowledge of the money and gun that were in his car.

Banton was arrested at his home in South Florida on December 9 hours after Mack and Thomas were busted in the warehouse by Drug Enforcement Agents.

Banton has been in custody ever since.

He claims to be a victim of entrapment and says an informant was paid US$35,000 to entrap him

Kartel being targeted? - Says police or someone else trying to set him up

(via The Jamaica Star)

Deejay Vybz Kartel feels targeted. He strongly believes that there are some persons who are conspiring to see him behind bars once again.

The deejay, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, said: "I feel like someone, or a group of people are conspiring to try to get me arrested. On Monday, I got a call from a friend who works at Greater Portmore Police Station telling me that there's a rumour over there that I put out a hit on a police over there and that I should try clear my name. I immediately called my lawyer and informed her of the news and she said she was going to call the station to query the matter."

The deejay further said; "Somebody trying to set me up but that don't hold no water because whether it is a routine check on the road, traffic violation or even question and answer, the cops and I have never had a bad encounter."

He continued, "I sing songs, I don't sling guns so I would like to go to the public because this is set up business that someone is obviously trying."

Checks to verify the artiste's claims were unsuccessful as all questions were directed to the top cop for the St Catherine South Division. However, several calls to his office and cellular phone went unanswered up to press time last night.

"I don't know if it's true or not, I'm not in the capacity to comment. It's best you speak to the boss," a corporal at the Greater Portmore Police Station said when contacted there yesterday.

In June, Kartel was among a list of six men who were described as a 'major person of interest' and asked to turn themselves into police custody. On June 29, Kartel turned himself into police custody, during the time of the imposed state of emergency. He was released two weeks later.

In making reference to that arrest Kartel said yesterday, "this is not the first time someone tried to accuse me. While I was detained during the state of emergency, police came to me in the cell and said they received statement that I threatened a policeman's life. When they contacted the policeman who was allegedly threatened, he said he didn't know anything about that and that he and I were good friends from primary school days, we grew up together."