88 pages jam-packed with festival information, art, reasonings and more! Pick one up for free at your local Rasta shop or reggae festival or order a copy to be mailed to you by clicking here

 

This is our 16th annual issue and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you!

 

1 Love

Kaati, Robyn, Anthony, Laura, Amy, SuZ, Kristine C and Kristine S, Doris, Dj Steph, Florencia, Dorie,  and Robbin

 

P.S. A BIG SHOUT OUT TO OUR ADVERTISERS WHO MAKE THE REGGAE FESTIVAL GUIDE POSSIBLE! Go to their websites, give them a call, buy their CD, attend their festival! Let them know you saw them in the Reggae Festival Guide!

 

"Can you imagine that this is a ska band (Slightly Stoopid) out of California and I first met them years ago when they were part of one of the North American Reggae Sunsplash tours that were staged by the late Tony Johnson of Synergy fame. They told me at the time that they were influenced by The Skatalites -  Jamaica's own ska band.

 

Now they're the biggest live draw in ska world and can you imagine that ska was born and bred right here in Jamaica and Jamaica has the greatest ska catalogue in the world and we don't have a ska band presently out of Jamaica carrying on the great works that the pioneers like Tommy McCook, Roland Alphonso, Don Drummond, Johnny Moore, Jah Jerry, Brevette, Knibbs, Sterling, Mittoo (and the list goes on) who actually started the ska revolution in the 60's!

 

Only two of the original members who are still active playing ska in the Skatalites and they are Lloyd Knibbs (drums) and Lester Sterling who's the band's leader.

 

Slightly Stooped is now playing the biggest venues in North America on their present North American Tour, bigger than any of our present big Reggae artists and we still don't have a ska band out of Jamaica presently to represent what we created over 45 years ago.

 

If it wasn't for the good ole Skatalites the young fans who are now the major supporters and followers of ska would think and believe that ska music was created in the USA.

 

We should all give thanks and praise to TOOTS & THE MAYTALS who attracts a wide cross section of fans and attracts more young fans especially college kids to his live performances more than any present Reggae acts to date and he keeps the ska music fire burning constantly and that's why he still looks as if he's still in his teens as he delivers high energy performances wherever he performs and no one can guess his age! Long live TOOTS & THE MAYTALS you're blessed!"

 

Copeland Forbes Comar Productions Ltd

8 Haughton Avenue Kingston 10 Jamaica WI

Tel 876-978-3556 Fax 876-946-2732

Email:copelandforbes@hotmail.com,

comarproductions@aim.com

Festival starts today. Purchase Tickets at the gate.  Mendocino county welcomes the 17th annual  Sierra Nevada World Music Festival (SNWMF).  Created as an annual summer solstice and world peace celebration, the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival has been called "life changing" for many of its regular attendees the majority of which come as campers, committing to a three-day bonanza for the senses. Its name originates from its original festival location in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The event  takes place for the fifth consecutive year at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds in Boonville, CA.

Off-the-hook line up: www.snwmf.com

 

“Yes, Cuffee. I found him in a zombie-like state roaming the burial grounds of our ancestors. Someone had exploited the spirits of the dead and by doing so, casted a powerful duppy upon him. He was now a child with no soul. As the Myalman of the village, it is important that I acquaint myself with the practice of Obeah in order to undo it’s evil. I immediately performed the necessary services needed to expel the duppy. After Cuffee was cured, I then consulted with the eldersmen and together we agreed to cast Quaco out of the village for abusing the spiritual powers for his purpose. This is a decision I have had to live with for sometime now. He is my brother, you know.”

“I know,” Philip said, eyes wide with disbelief. “Where is Quaco now?”

“He has taken refuge deep inside Windsor Cave.”

“He’s not the one called ShadowCatcher?”

Cudjoe nodded yes.

“How is the village dealing with this dilemma.”

“Not good. The entire village is frightened of Quaco. Just the mention of his name strikes fear in the hearts of the villagers, including some of our greatest warriors.”

            Philip was having trouble taking in all the information he was hearing.

“Wha-What do you think Quaco is up to now?”

            Cudjoe rose from the ground, pushing himself up with his staff. He then turned and faced the rain forest in the direction of Windsor Cave.

“I fear that he’s plotting something big, something unconceivable. I know what he’s capable of doing.”

            Philip stood up and joined Cudjoe, placing his right hand firmly on the village chief’s left shoulder. It’s been four months since the incident with Cuffee and there hasn’t been any other events, right?”

“Right,” Cudjoe nodded his head.

“Then we shouldn’t have much to worry about. However, it wouldn’t hurt to prepare some of the other warriors in the art of Myalism. You said it yourself.”

“You have a point,” Cudjoe continued,” “and that is why I summoned for you.”

Philip smiled. “Come on. It’s getting late. Let’s go home.”

As Cudjoe reached down to grab the near-empty bottle of rum, Philip kicked a plume of dirt over the campfire, smothering the flames. He then took the bottle of rum from Cudjoe and together, the two walked the long distance through the dark back to the village. When they reached Cudjoe’s hut, the two men stopped and faced each other.

Cudjoe spoke first. “Not a word of this to Maria. I don’t want her to be alarmed­—,”

“Not you worry,” Philip interrupted Cudjoe. “I won’t say anything.”

“We’ll talk more tomorrow?” Cudjoe asked.

“Sure,” he smiled. “Goodnight, Cudjoe,”

Philip waited as Cudjoe staggered into his hut. He the headed toward his own hut, carrying in one hand the bottle of rum while whistling the chorus to Bob Marley’s, Three little birds. Stopping in front of the entrance, Philip swallowed the last of the rum. He then took one last look around the village before disappearing inside his hut.

 

 

 

The Mateel Community Center is pleased to announce confirmed talent for the 26^th annual Reggae On The River, taking place as a two day festival on July 17 and 18 at Benbow Lake State Recreation Area in southern Humboldt County, CA.  This year’s festival will include a diverse mix of top name reggae and world music talent including Sly & Robbie with The Taxi Gang, Don Carlos, Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra, Dezarie, Sugar Minott, Rootz Underground, Sister Carol, Pablo Moses, Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca, Fire Pashon, Messenjah Selah, Rob Symeonn, Quinto Sol, Tchiya Amet & The Lighthouse Band, and Seed N Soil.

 

2-day tickets for the 26^th annual Reggae On The River are on sale now at local outlets and online at http://reggaeontheriver.com/festival/tickets for a price of $85.  Single day tickets are now available as well for $50 per day.  Current MCC members receive a $5 discount when purchased in advance at the Mateel office in Redway.  Other local outlets include The Works (Eureka/ Arcata), Fortuna Music Mart, Redway Liquor, The Peg House (Leggett), Main Street Music (Willits), Ukiah Natural Foods, and Tan

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The Mateel Community Center is pleased to announce confirmed talent for the 26^th annual Reggae On The River, taking place as a two day festival on July 17 and 18 at Benbow Lake State Recreation Area in southern Humboldt County.  This year’s festival will include a diverse mix of top name reggae and world music talent including Sly & Robbie with The Taxi Gang, Don Carlos, Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra, Dezarie, Sugar Minott, Rootz Underground, Sister Carol, Pablo Moses, Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca, Fire Pashon, Messenjah Selah, Rob Symeonn, Quinto Sol, Tchiya Amet & The Lighthouse Band, and Seed N Soil.

 

2-day tickets for the 26^th annual Reggae On The River are on sale now at local outlets and online at http://reggaeontheriver.com/festival/tickets for a price of $85.  Single day tickets are now available as well for $50 per day.  Current MCC members receive a $5 discount when purchased in advance at the Mateel office in Redway.  Other local outlets include The Works (Eureka/ Arcata), Fortuna Music Mart, Redway Liquor, The Peg House (Leggett), Main Street Music (Willits), Ukiah Natural Foods, and Tangents (Ft. Bragg).  If the event is not sold out prior to June 1^st, single day tickets will go on sale at this point for a price of $50 per day.  Buying the advance 2-day pass is strongly encouraged. 

 

For camping, parking, artist updates, and other pertinent festival information, visit www.reggaeontheriver.com or call the Mateel office at (707) 923-3368 and make your plans to today to be at the 26^th annual Reggae On The River on July 17 and 18.   

gents (Ft. Bragg).  If the event is not sold out prior to June 1^st, single day tickets will go on sale at this point for a price of $50 per day.  Buying the advance 2-day pass is strongly encouraged. 

 

For camping, parking, artist updates, and other pertinent festival information, visit www.reggaeontheriver.com or call the Mateel office at (707) 923-3368 and make your plans to today to be at the 26^th annual Reggae On The River on July 17 and 18.   

SINGLE TO BE OFFERED AS FREE DOWNLOAD THROUGHOUT CONTINENT STARTING JUNE 2nd TO COMMEMORATE UNPRECEDENTED EVENT

LOS ANGELES, June 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Five-time Grammy winning artist and reggae icon Ziggy Marley, motivated by the historic occurrence of the World Cup being played in Africa for the first time, took the opportunity to write his current single "Africa Land." The song is an anthem to unity, freedom and new beginnings; well known principles championed by the legendary Marley family.  "Africa Land" falls on the heels of Marley's 2009 Grammy-winning Children's album, "Family Time."

For this song, Marley recruited Grammy winning artists, brother Stephen Marley and African mega star Angelique Kidjo. Together they created a catchy, danceable song, which incorporates Dancehall Reggae, as well as African elements. Free Downloads will be available beginning June 1st at www.ziggymarley.com and www.tuffgongworldwide.com.

"The bible says 'the first shall be last and the last shall be first.'  How fitting that South Africa – the last nation on the homeland to be free – is the launch pad for a global event that will showcase the rise of the African continent," said Ziggy Marley.  "Africa Land is the song which celebrates that dream becoming true."

Marley plans to release "Africa Land" as an exclusive to African radio, to be followed worldwide as a free download shortly thereafter.  "Africa Land" will be the first single from an upcoming collection of free singles entitled The Wild and Free Singles Marley is to release later this year.

Ziggy Marley's early immersion in music came at age ten when he sat in on recording sessions with his father. Then, as front man to Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers, Marley released eight best-selling albums, generating three Grammys, with such chart-topping hits as "Tomorrow People" and "Tumbling Down." Marley's solo debut, Dragonfly, was released in 2003.  His second solo release, Love Is My Religion, won a Grammy for Best Reggae Album to much critical acclaim in 2006.  His third solo release, Family Time, scored him a Grammy in a new category:  Best Musical Album For Children.

Release Date: July 13, 2010
(International release dates vary)
A global celebration of the music of Bob Marley, featuring five new, exclusive recordings by exceptional international artists

FEATURED ARTISTS:
Three Plus (Hawaii) • Robi Kahakalau (Hawaii) • Rebelution (USA) • Caracol (Canada) Céu (Brazil) • Rocky Dawuni (Ghana) • Freshlyground (South Africa)
Northern Lights feat. Jonathan Edwards (USA) • Julie Crochetière (Canada) • Funkadesi (USA/India) Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars (Sierra Leone) • Playing for Change (International)

Few people have made the kind of lasting, universal impact that Bob Marley has made with his music. In his short 36 years, Marley managed not only to introduce hundreds of millions to reggae but also spread powerful messages of peace, love, human rights and acceptance. It’s no surprise that almost 30 years after his death, one can travel to any part of the globe and witness his far-reaching musical legacy.

Bob Marley would have been 65 in 2010, and in celebration, Putumayo World Music is releasing Tribute to a Reggae Legend, a multi-genre album featuring artists from around the world performing many of his bestloved songs. The collection is the first tribute album Putumayo has produced and its first with five exclusive, original tracks.

Artists who recorded songs for this release include Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, a group of refugees displaced to Guinea during the Sierra Leone civil war. They beautifully harmonize on a poignant interpretation of “No Woman, No Cry.” South African Afro-fusion band Freshlyground contributes an original recording of “Africa Unite,” demonstrating their signature mix of African folk, kwela and jazz. Original recordings of “Could You Be Loved” by Québecois singer Caracol (formerly of the group Dobracaracol), “Natural Mystic” by California reggae/rock band Rebelution and “Sun is Shining” by Ghanaian reggae artist Rocky Dawuni, add to the diversity of the collection.

A rising international star, Brazilian singer-songwriter Cèu blends elements of bossa nova and soul in a tranquil rendition of “Concrete Jungle.” The multi-ethnic group Playing for Change incorporate many instruments, styles and languages in “One Love,” emphasizing the recurring theme of universal love found in many of
Marley’s songs.

The album also features Honolulu-based reggae band Three Plus (“Is This Love”), New England bluegrass, folk and country band Northern Lights with Jonathan Edwards (“Waiting in Vain”), Caribbean, Indian and African fusion band Funkadesi (“Real Situation”), Hawaiian singer-guitarist Robi Kahakalau (“Do it Twice”) and Canadian pianist and singer-songwriter Julie Crochetière (“Mellow Mood”).

Tribute to a Reggae Legend is the newest addition to Putumayo’s successful reggae series, which includes African Reggae, World Reggae, Jamaica: Reggae Homeland and Reggae Playground.

For more information on this and other Putumayo releases, visit www.putumayo.com.

 

Contact:
US Music Press & Radio: Shaliza Thomas, +1-212-625-1400, ext. 226; shaliza@putumayo.com

North American & Caribbean Lifestyle Media: Yann Perrigault, +1-212-625-1400, ext. 223; yann@putumayo.com

Web Promotion/DJs/Record Pools: Kaveh Sarfehjooy, +1-212-625-1400, ext. 213; kaveh@putumayo.com

www.putumayo.com

Free concerts 5:30 p.m. each Thursday, June 3-Aug. 26 at Plaza de Cesar Chavez

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Bucking the trend of once-free events now charging admission – or shutting down altogether – Music in the Park returns to downtown San Jose this summer with 13 FREE shows. The 22nd anniversary lineup for the concert series, presented by Dos Equis and Metro Newspapers, includes all-time favorites, international flavors and up-and-coming bands.

 

Favorites include the Pete Escovedo Orchestra (16th appearance), Lenny Williams (sixth appearance), Eek-A-Mouse (sixth appearance), Pato Banton (fifth performance) and English Beat (fourth appearance). BoDeans (2004) and Don Carlos (2006) are making encore performances.

 

Newcomers to the Plaza de Cesar Chavez stage include classic rockers Y&T, pop band Tonic, reggae stars Skatalites, and Michael Jackson tribute band Foreverland. Headlining up-andcomers include alternative rockers Cold War Kids and The Gaslight Anthem.

 

Several of the opening acts will draw legions of fans on their own:

 

“The Downtown Association remains committed to activating the center city with diverse, accessible and quality events,” said Scott Knies, SJDA executive director. “In these times of budget cutbacks, San Jose and the businesses we represent need these programs more than ever.”

 

Each Thursday concert takes place 5:30-9 p.m. at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Fernando streets, in the heart of downtown San Jose. Visit www.sjdowntown.com for complete show information.

 

The concert series – which the Downtown Association started in 1989 -- attracts San Jose residents, employees from Silicon Valley offices and music lovers from throughout the Bay Area. Food and drink are available at the shows.

 

The 2010 lineup:

June 3 - Cold War Kids (alternative rock). Check out the band’s current singles, “Audience” and “Something’s Not Right With Me,” and past hit, “Behave Yourself” at

www.myspace.com/coldwarkids.

 

Also: Jesse Malin & St. Marks Social (alternative rock). Malin, former front man for Heart Attack and D Generation, has spent seven years on the road as a solo artist, sharing stages with The White Stripes, The Hold Steady and Lucinda Williams. www.jessemalin.com/.

 

June 10 - Lenny Williams (retro R&B / funk). Williams’ big break as the lead singer of Tower of Power helped pave the way to solo successes, including the mega-hit “Cause I Love You.” www.lennywilliams.com/. Prior downtown San Jose appearances: 1994, ’95 and ’96 (with Tower of Power), 2005, ’06, 08. Williams also played Music in the Other Park (St. James Park) in 1999.

 

Also: Prince “BlkMagic” Damons (hip-hop / R&B). Has produced for several of today’s

hottest artists, plus veterans such as Archie Bell. His music backs CW TV shows including the Tyra Banks Show and TMZ. www.princedamons.com.

 

June 17 - Skatalites (ska / reggae). The Skatalites have changed Jamaican music forever, fusing boogie-woogie blues, R & B, jazz, calypso, and African rhythms – they are the grandfathers of ska. Rolling Stone magazines said the Skatalites are “Jamaica's answer to the Motown house band.” www.skatalites.com/.

 

Also: Sarazino (AfroLatin reggae) This group from Ecuador is touring the U.S.

www.myspace.com/sarazino.

 

June 24 - BoDeans (rock / pop). “Closer to Free” is only one of the band’s big songs. The BoDeans will bring 30 years of tunes to San Jose. www.bodeans.com/. Prior appearance: 2004.

 

Also: Dusty Rhodes and the River Band (rock / folk / country) myspace.com/dustyrhodes.

 

And: The Careless Hearts (indie / country / rock). myspace.com/carelesshearts.

 

July 1 - English Beat (ska / new wave). Dave Wakeling and mates still churn out a long list of hits from The English Beat, General Public and solo efforts, causing everyone to get out of their seats and dance. www.davewakeling.com. Prior appearances: 2006, ’07, ’08.

 

Also: The Odd Numbers (pop / punk / rock). myspace.com/theoddnumbers.

2/4

 

July 8 - Tonic (rock / pop). Emerson Hart is back as lead singer for this two-time Grammy-nominated group that are 17-year veterans of the rock tour circuits. www.tonic-online.com/.

 

Also: Green River Ordinance (rock / pop). Billboard Magazine calls GRO “a band to watch in2010.” myspace.com/gro.

 

July 15 - Don Carlos (reggae). Former lead singer of Grammy Award-winning Jamaican reggae group Black Uhuru. www.doncarlosreggae.com. Prior appearance: 2006.

 

Also:  Zili Misik (tropical / African beats).  Seven member, all female band connects Haitian mizik rasin, jazz, roots reggae, samba, Cuban son, and neo soul.

 

July 22 - The Gaslight Anthem (alternative rock). Fellow New Jersey rocker Bruce

Springsteen has endorsed this band, which makes a special San Jose stop before playing atBonnaroo Festival in Tennessee and taking a European tour. www.gaslightanthem.com/site/.

 

July 29 - Pete Escovedo Orchestra (Latin jazz). The legendary Bay Area musician has played music and painted since the age of 16. His talent has appeared in performances and recordings of a wide array of artists including Carlos Santana, Anita Baker, Barry White, Poncho Sanchez and more. www.peteescovedo.com. Prior appearances: 1990, ’92, ’93, ’94, ’95, ’96, ’97, ’99, 2000, ’01, ’02, ’03, ’06, ’08, ’09. Escovedo also played Music in the Other Park in 2004.

 

Also: Tortilla Soup (Latin) www.tortillasoupmusic.com/

 

August 5 - Foreverland (pop). A 14-piece Michael Jackson tribute band keeps audiences

dancing. http://foreverlandsf.com/.

 

Also: Love Stoned (R&B). www.myspace.com/thebandlovestoned

 

August 12 - Eek-A-Mouse (reggae). The dancehall king is still reinventing himself, though he includes multiple hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s in his sets. www.myspace.com/officialeekamouse.  Prior appearances: 1998, 2000, 02, 04, 09. Eek-A-Mouse also played Music in the Other Park in 2007.

 

Also: The Hold Up (reggae / hip-hop / pop). myspace.com/theholdupmusic

 

August 19 - Y&T (rock). Classic rock quartet that inspired Metallica and Motley Crue, among others, found renewed popularity after their hit, “Summertime Girls,” became theme song for “Baywatch.” http://meniketti.com/.

 

Also: OTR Band (rock). www.theotrband.com.

 

August 26 – Pato Banton (reggae). Banton has distributed 17 albums since breaking through in the mid-1980s, including a couple of albums regarded as reggae classics. The London native, who came to the states by way of Birmingham, England, now travels with his band mates, The Now Generation, delivering lyrics that provide food for the soul and performances that keep audiences dancing. www.patobanton.com. Prior appearances: 1995, 1996, 2003, 2009. Banton also played Music in the Other Park in 2006.

 

Also: Whiskey Avengers (ska / punk / reggae). www.myspace.com/whiskeyavengers.

 

Music in the Park is produced by the San Jose Downtown Association and presented by Dos Equis and Metro Newspapers. Food, beer, wine, soft drinks and water are sold at the park.

 

For more information, call (408) 279-1775 or visit www.sjdowntown.com.

 

###

 

Sat, July 3

Truckee River Park Amphitheater, Truckee, CA

7:00 pm (Doors Open at 6:00 pm)

$20.00 advance

All Ages

 

Thu, July 22

River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City, CA

9:30 pm (Doors Open at 8:30 pm)

$20.00 advance

21 & over

 

530-583-2801 or 775-337-8344

Doors – 7:00 pm            Show – 8:00 pm

Tickets on Sale Friday, May 7th at 10:00 AM

 

Tickets available at the Cal-Neva Casino Main Cashier Cage 24-Hours a day
(entrance located on the corner of 2nd Street and Virginia Street),
or by calling 877-4-FLY-TIX (435-9849) and online at
 www.Ticketfly.com  or www.KnittingFactory.com

 

Tickets: $33.00 in advance, $35.00 day of show
General Admission Standing
$65.00 Reserved Box Seat

 

All Rebel Rockers, Michael Franti’s most recent album, features the legendary production team of Sly & Robbie and reinforces Franti’s place as a global force and a true musician of his time. The first single, “Say Hey (I Love You)” is fast becoming one of the biggest of Franti’s career. It’s one of the most added records at multiple radio formats--Top 40, Hot AC and Alternative--and its music video has already exceeded 1 million views on YouTube. As for the CD, All Rebel Rockers marked Franti’s highest Billboard Top 200 Album Chart debut ever.
Through his entire musical career to date, Franti has continued to slowly but surely build an extremely dedicated global grass roots following. He’s done it with a new spin on an old fashioned way. He’s earned his fans, one winning concert at a time. Ultimately what unites Franti’s remarkable and impressive career is, ironically, the man’s ongoing search for harmony.
“As a musician and a man, I more than anything else want to be a unifier,” Franti explains. “I want to bring people together through music and its unique power. And I hope that somehow that sense of unity extends beyond the music.”

 

Produced By Knitting Factory Presents – www.Knittingfactory.com

 

David Kirton lands a slot on The Music 4 Peace Concert being held in South Africa during The 2010 World Cup.

 

Music 4 Peace Concert is being held in Johannesburg, South Africa coinciding with the World Cup and is part of the FIFA legacy events on July 4th  2010.  The groundbreaking concert will be part of a yearlong awareness campaign to create a more peaceful and greener planet for future generations.

 

Barbadian Reggae Artist David Kirton and his Los Angeles based band will be performing along with American Hip Hop Artist Mos Def, Jamaican Super Star Steven Marley, Isreal's Miri Ben Ari, Pakistian's StringsOnline and 1001 Ways. The artists will perform indivually and as fusions. Sponsors include Vibe Entertainment, The Gandhi Tour, MTV Base and The South Africa Football Association.

 

 

Music 4 Peace is a non-profit organization promoting world peace through the collaborative efforts of musicians, peace activists, community leaders and citizens alike. In addition to raising awareness for the UN’s Millennium Development Goals Music 4 Peace will use its media platform to tell the world about the drinking water situation in Africa and around the world and how we can help be a part of the solution. Donations will be solicited at the live event, internationally via the live web & television broadcast and on their websites. Music and humanitarian charities will be 2010 campaign recipients include the Clean Drinking Water Campaigns 'Call 4 Water' Campaign and 'End Water Poverty'. Donations can be made at www.music4peace.com

At the Music 4 Peace tour launch during the Sundance Film Festival this year Russell Simmons was a key speaker. "We’re excited about the potential these diverse organizations have in coming together to harness music as a transformative and unifying power to promote peace throughout the world" Russell Simmons.

 

One of the key partners in this event is The Gandhi Tour. The Gandhi Tour was launched celebrating Gandhi’s 100 years of Non-violence with grandson of Gandhi, Dr. Arun Gandhi at The Earthdance Peace Festival 2006. Their mission is to unite artists and charity organizations to promote non-violence among all cultures and generations.

 

David Kirton gives credit to his Barbadian heritage for his respect for peace and peaceful resolution of conflicts."Gimme de green Camouflage for my peace march".Quoting his hit song Green Camouflage, in a recent interview, Kirton says "I want to be a soldier for Peace. You know what I mean? Spreading the message musically helps open the dialog. To living in peace and cultural harmony should be a human right and not a distant fantasy".

 

Though Kirton toured the States and appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” back in 1999 as part of the Spirit of Unity Tour, Kirton is making his big splash as a solo artist in the States now, in the wake of his newest award winning album Time for Change and eye-opening performance at South By Southwest 2009.  He was awarded the title of Reggae Artist of the Year in 2008 and 2009, and has won a total of  four Barbados Music Awards, including song and video for hit single “Green Camouflage,” a true reggae anthem embodying the best of the old rhythms and new expressions, which can be viewed at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PyNroAyxYA.

 

Philanthropy: There is a word in Africa used across borders and across cultures, it is a word of blessing, gratitude and reciprocity (giving and giving back)… the word is “barka”. This concert will bring the meaning of barka to global audiences. This concert will bring the meaning of barka to global audiences. This concert event is a way to raise funds and promote Peace, Clean Water and Ending Global Poverty.

 

 

CONTACT:
BIRD'S EYE MUSIC
Noelle Attaway
barbadosmusic@gmail.com
310-579-1268

INTERNATIONAL REGGAE DAY (IRD) is an annual July 1st media festival celebrating Jamaica’s rich cultural legacy history of quality music and global impact.  July 1 is intended as a marketing platform created through the combined power of music, media and technology and IRD 2010 will be produced as a virtual media festival celebrating Brand Jamaica and the power and impact of Jamaica on international pop culture.  Media invitation and information are attached to be shared with your network as we invite media around the world to join in the celebration.  

In support of Jamaica  
International Reggae Day 2010 has been designed as a RedGoldGreen ILOVEJA campaign and global reggae party hosted by Jamaican media and participating international media on July 1st to showcase the Best of Jamaica and global Reggae culture.  

 
IRD needs your support to spread the word and mobilize participation for July 1st so please share this email with others in your network.

 

Looking forward to confirming all media participation as they register online at www.ireggaeday.com and provide details concerning their July 1 programme specials.  

 

Please visit the links below at your convenience to get a feel for the IRD brand philosophy, vision and direction.  

 

IRD EPK
http://www.youtube.com/user/IRDTV#p/u/20/H0OQIlhN9Ns

 

IRDTV You Tube
http://www.youtube.com/irdtv

 

 IRD Facebook Fanpage
 http://www.facebook.com/InternationalReggaeDay

 
Andrea M. Davis

JAMAICA ARTS HOLDINGS LTD.
1 Abbeydale Road
Kingston 10, Jamaica W.I.
Tel/Fax: 876.622.5986
Mobile: 876.846.0754
US Tel: 954.944.9425
E-mail: rastapickney@gmail.com
www.youtube.com/irdtv
www.facebook.com/internationalreggaeday
http://ireggaeday.wordpress.com/
www.internationalreggaeday.net
www.myspace.com/jahreggaeday
www.myspace.com/jahbookings

A stampede at a peace  concert in Ivory Coast has killed at least two people, medical workers say.

The workers tolds AFP news agency that staff at a stadium in  Bouake allowed a big crowd in during the concert by Ivorian reggae musician Alpha Blondy.

 

A further 20 people were reportedly injured in the crush.

 

The concert was intended to celebrate "peace and unity" as the  country seeks to recover from civil war. Bouake is the stronghold of the  former rebels.

 

Their New Forces Movement has controlled the north since their  failed 2002 attempt to overthrow President Laurent Gbagbo.

 

Despite a peace deal signed in March 2007, the ex-rebels have  yet to hand over control of the region.

 

Polls to end the crisis sparked by the civil war have been  delayed six times.

 

St. Croix, USVI - April 5, 2010- The St. Croix, VI-based music label I Grade Records has teamed up with soul-roots singer Toussaint to release a brand new single and video entitled, “Be You”.  The soulful and jazz-influenced roots reggae song is an uplifting anthem of self-assurance and self-respect. 

 

The music video features Toussaint bringing this message to children in the pristine natural beauty of the island of St. Croix.  “Be You” is the first single off of Toussaint’s forthcoming debut album, Roots in a Modern Time – set for a Summer 2010 release.

 

Toussaint, AKA Toussaint the Liberator, is the former lead singer of the acclaimed soul/funk group, Soulive.  With his new works, he is forging an original sound of soul-roots reggae, blending his soulful vocals with progressive & cutting edge roots reggae production. 

 

The musical arrangement on “Be You”, and the majority of the album, was crafted by I Grade Records’ producer/CEO Laurent “Tippy I” Alfred, alongside his production collective known as Zion I Kings: Jah David of Zion High Productions, Tippy of I Grade & Digital Ancient of Lustre Kings Productions. “Be You” also features horn playing/arrangement by California-based Celebrity Hornz and guitar work by the legendary Tuff Lion.

 

The forthcoming album, Roots in a Modern Time, is an epic collection of tunes firmly grounded in roots reggae, but with strong soul, jazz & hip hop influences. The songwriting and vocal performance are drenched in passionate soulful delivery. According to Toussaint, “this record, in general, is a call to everyone from my heart trying to bring the roots and the soul back.  I feel like it’s taking it back to old-school soul and classic roots reggae when the music as uplifting; when it makes you wanna wake up and do something.” 

 

The 15-track album features outstanding musicianship from maestros like the aforementioned Tuff Lion, Dean Pond (drummer/producer), Balboa Becker (trombone), Johnny Trama (guitar), Eli Winderman (keyboards) & Youssoupha Sidibe (Kora). 

 

The “Be You” music video was written/directed/produced by Johanna Bermudez-Ruiz of Cane Bay Films in St. Croix and shot and edited by Cortez McKay of Ski Digital. The music video captures the brilliance of Toussaint’s infectious energy as he and a group of children perform in the midst of mesmerizing landscapes, immaculate seashore lines, and Crucian eco-farm culture.

 

The “Be You” music video, currently viewable on youtube.com at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP6g5lj0qRQ , will be aired on a variety of music networks including Tempo, the premiere pan-Caribbean network.

 

Purchase here:

 

I Grade Records

PO Box 223281

Christiansted, VI 00822

Email: igraderecords@gmail.com

Tel: 646.226.1738

HOT NEW DANCEHALL...

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRsHNrJIZ0U
18-Jun-2010 - Chicago, Illinois - Wild Hare
19-Jun-2010 - Two Rivers, Wisconsin -- Stumpjack's Coffee Company *Acoustic
19-Jun-2010 - Manitowoc, Wisconsin - Metro Jam
20-Jun-2010 - Minneapolis, Minnnesota - Nomad World Pub
21-Jun-2010 - Omaha, Nebraska - BarFly
22-Jun-2010 - Kearney, Nebraska - Cunningham's Journal
26-Jun-2010 - Topanga, California - Reggae pon di Mountain Fest
26-Jun-2010 - Hermosa Beach, California - The Light House
27-Jun-2010 - Laguna Beach, California- Mozambique Restaurant
07-Jul-2010 - Aspen, Colorado - Belly Up
08-Jul-2010 - Durango, Colorado- The Abbey Theater
10-Jul-2010 - Bellvue, Colorado - Mishawaka Ampitheater
11-Jul-2010 - Steamboat Springs, Colorado - Ghost Ranch Saloon
13-Jul-2010 - Pamona, California - The Glass House
17-Jul-2010 - Solana Beach, California - The Belly Up Tavern
21-Jul-2010 - Sacramento, California - Harlows Restrauant and Night Club
22-Jul-2010 - Lake Tahoe, California - River Ranch
23-Jul-2010 - Petaluma, California - Mystic Theater
24-Jul-2010 - Fallbrook, California- Soul Roll Reggae Festival
25-Jul-2010 - Costa Mesa, California - Tiki Bar
31-Jul-2010 - Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Ride The Wolf Creek Pass benefit Festival
06-Aug-2010 - San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico - OhKay Casino Resort
07-Aug-2010 - Denver, Colorado - Cervantes
13-Aug-2010 - Rock Island, Illinois - Ya Maka My Weekend
14-Aug-2010 - South Bend, Indiana - South Bend Reggae Festival
15-Aug-2010 - Garrettsville, Ohio - Mid West Reggae Festival
19-Aug-2010 - Tulsa, Oklahoma - Fly Trap Music Hall
21-Aug-2010 - Alma, Colorado - THC Music Festival
26-Aug-2010 - San Jose, California - Music in the Park
27-Aug-2010 - Selma, Oregon - Jefferson State Hemp Expo and Music Festival
29-Aug-2010 - Long Beach, California - IRIEFest at the Queen Mary
04-Sep-2010 - Forestville, California - Hollydale Club
18-Sep-2010 - San Diego, California - Brick by Brick

June 18
1942: (James) Paul McCartney is born in Liverpool, England.
1953: Egypt proclaimed a republic.
1997: Devon Russell <http://reggaelife.jp/guide/who/DevonRussell.html>  passes away (dies of brain tumor).

 

2005: Singer Jennifer Lara dies in the Kingston Public Hospital from an apparent brain haemorrhage and high blood pressure at the age of 52.

With a husky tenor that is the epitome of soul, and with musical influences that range from roots reggae to gospel to neosoul to hip hop, Toussaint carries a sound that is true to his nickname, “the Liberator”.  His music is liberated from any boundaries in form or name.  Yet Toussaint remains firmly grounded by his foundational pillars of soul and roots.  As a “soul roots” singer unlike any other, and with an epic debut album on tap, Toussaint is poised to break new ground worldwide.

 

Toussaint began his musical journey where most of the celebrated soul voices of the past began: in the church.  The son of a Baptist preacher and a gospel singer, Toussaint spent the majority of his youth singing in various churches in and around his home state of Indiana. Following a relocation to Boston in 2001, he began to sing with a wide range of groups where he learned to jump easily from the blues, to old-school R&B, to funk, to reggae.

 

In 2006, the word of Toussaint’s vocal prowesses and songwriting spread to the ears of the soul/funk trio, Soulive, who invited him to join the band as their lead singer.  Toussaint penned all of the lyrics for the acclaimed group’s album, No Place Like Soul, released on the newly revived Stax label.  Touring the world and performing at legendary venues across the world for nearly two years, Toussaint was able to share the stage with renowned artists such as Isaac Hayes, the Rolling Stones, John Legend and the Dave Matthews Band. 

 

Toussaint’s stage performance, vocal strength and songwriting reached new heights during his tenure with Soulive. 

 

After taking a break from the music scene in 2008, Toussaint has returned in full force, bringing his original soul reggae music to audiences in the northeast with the bands Buru Style and the Trama Unit. 

 

2010 finds Toussaint poised for another swell in the storyline of his career.  Connecting with St. Croix-based I Grade Records – the label behind several notable reggae releases by Midnite, Dezarie, NiyoRah & others – Toussaint has recorded an epic album of original soul-drenched, genre-defying roots music: Roots in a Modern Time.  Slated for a Summer 2010 release, the album’s first single, “Be You”, is already ringing through the airwaves worldwide, with a video filmed on location in St. Croix. Keep your eyes open for what comes next. 

 

 

15            20            3            How We Do It – Elephant Man feat Bounty KillerU-5 – CR203/Adidjaheim/Notnice

 

 

Friday, June 18th - Saturday, July 24th 2010

Montego Bay

Saturday, June 19th 2010

London

Saturday-Sunday, June 19th-20th 2010

San Antonio Texas

Saturday-Saturday, June 19th-19th 2010

London Brixton

Saturday, June 19th 2010

Birmingham Alabama

Sunday-Sunday, June 20th-20th 2010

BINGEN BINGEN

Wednesday, June 23rd 2010

San Diego California

Friday-Sunday, June 25th-27th 2010

Concow California

Saturday, June 26th 2010

Omaha Nebraska

Sunday-Sunday, June 27th-27th 2010

Almere Flevoland

 Sunday-Sunday, June 27th-27th 2010

Yellow Springs Ohio