As far as internationally-acclaimed reggae artist, Junior Kelly, is concerned, his years spent under contract with VP Records were not only productive and interesting, they  contributed significantly to his development and progress globally. “They were seven good years musically and otherwise,” Kelly said in an interview. “And seven is really such an awesome number, so it was significant and appropriate that after seven years, we closed the chapter on what proved to be a mutually beneficial … Read entire article »

By Solomoni Biumaiono—— One of Fiji’s latest radio sensation and perhaps reggae band to put out a recording is the Australian based Takia band under the leadership of Mansus Knight. The band which was formed three years ago has already produced hit tunes like Oi Au We which made a splash in the Suva club scene with its unique Island reggae and island dance music sound. Mansus, who is the son of George Knight of the band Kabani, … Read entire article »

  MUSIC AND POLITICS COLLIDE ON 4CD BOX SET   CURATED BY FORMER JAMAICAN PRIME MINISTER EDWARD SEAGA Commemorative Collection Features Extensive Liner Notes, Deluxe Packaging &  100 of the Island’s Most Celebrated Hits From Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff Bob Marley, Yellowman, Shaggy, Buju Banton, Sean Paul and more “Jamaican popular music demonstrated a triumph of creativity by borrowing nothing to build something” – Edward Seaga “…my family and I have witnessed the evolution of Jamaican music and its impact around the world. This rich music is not only … Read entire article »

  BY KARYL WALKER —- KINGSTON, Jamaica — Incarcerated Reggae star Buju Banton, has requested that he not be present at his sentencing on a firearm charge in the US District Court in Tampa, Florida next month. A member of Banton’s legal team Ihmotep Alkebu-lan told the Jamaica Observer that the artist has made a formal request that he be absent from the hearing. “He has asked not to be transported from prison to the court for the … Read entire article »

By Howard Campbell—— In commemoration of Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence from Britain, the Jamaica Observer’s Entertainment section recognises 50 persons who made significant, yet unheralded, contributions to the country’s culture. Today we feature Larry Marshall. Larry Marshall   THOUGH he recorded for top producers like Prince Buster and Clement ‘Coxson’ Dodd, Larry Marshall was still an unknown singer in 1968 when he took a second crack at making it as an entertainer. The song he recorded at Dodd’s Studio … Read entire article »