I-Octane is Digicel's latest brand ambassador!

Reggae artiste I-Octane recently signed a partnership with telecommunications giant Digicel to represent them as a brand ambassador.

The signing, which took place yesterday at Digicel's New Kingston headquarters, is another showing of Digicel's continued support of Jamaica's music industry. This time they partner with the young, energetic and successful artiste, who has been a staple in the music industry with hits such as Stab Vampire, Lose A Friend, Puff It and No More.

After the signing of the contract, I-Octane was treated to a hearty Digicel welcome with cake and champagne and he received two customised 4G modems.

Head of Marketing at Digicel, Donovan White, welcomed I-Octane to the Digicel family saying, "Over the past nine years, Digicel has demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving and developing all that's rich and beautiful about Jamaica, and our reggae music
is a big part of this. Today's signing is therefore further testament to the value that our Digicel brand places on brand Jamaica. I-Octane's music embodies positivity, his track record of releasing successful hits after hits is indeed synonymous with Digicel and we look forward to working with I-Octane and his manager."

positiveness and righteousness

I-Octane shared his opinion with THE STAR as to why he was chosen as an ambassador saying, "My work is different, I stand for positiveness and righteousness. Looking at it from their angle maybe they needed a clean, positive, vibrant, energetic individual and all those describe my character."

I-Octane, who was one of Digicel's Next Generation artistes on this year's Reggae Sumfest, says he has enjoyed working with Digicel and only sees brighter days ahead with the company as he says, "Working with them has been great so far, we did a lot of roadshows and we formed a bond. I did a wonderful Sumfest performance representing them, they liked the performance and the feedback received. Right now everybody a seh Octane."

He is also delighted with the partnership that he has formed with Digicel saying, "I feel great about this accomplishment with Digicel because it will undoubtedly take the brand I-Octane to a different level. This endorsement will allow me to continue to deliver clean and fun reggae lyrics to people that motivates them to believe in themselves and reach out for their goals."

THE JAMAICA STAR

Blak Ryno Charged, No Bail Granted!

Information reaching one876entertainment is that deejay Blak Ryno will be slapped with charges in relation to a brawl at the Kingston Mega Mart store on Upper Waterloo in St. Andrew this afternoon. The brawl, which occurred at a time when most Kingstonians were stocking up on supplies because of the inclement weather affect the island, reportedly involved a businessman Corey Todd, and the artiste Blak Ryno, whose real name is Romane Anderson, as well as their spouses. Corey Todd's wife could also be charged in the incident as she got into a tussle with Blak Ryno's babymother as well. The incident was also captured on the store's video security system.



The police have in their possession the weapon, a knife, which was used in the attack on businessman Corey Todd, proprietor of the company that manufactures and distributes Street Vybz rum. However, Blak Ryno's publicity team has another spin on the incident, they allege that Blak Ryno and his babymother were beaten by a rampaging Corey Todd and his wife. A release said that Ryno was attacked by a close business associate of Vybz Kartel and his female companion.

According to the release, "the incident unfolded when Blak Ryno was exiting the facility and was confronted by the man who immediately assumed an aggressive posture towards the artiste with the statement “Go S*ck Yuh Mada” and proceeded to shove him, further stating “Weh yuh ago do p*ssy, you know how we thing set pon the Gaza”. 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 baby mother inflicting several blows to her in the process. Thankfully the quick action of other shoppers and the security team quelled the hostile situation but not without her suffering some minor cut and bruises.

“Dem pull out mi hair, punch me, I got a cut in my face and several scratches” – Ryno’s baby mother exclaimed.

Blak Ryno and his female companion are now at the police station reporting the incident.

The artiste whose given name is Romane Anderson says he doesn’t know why the man and his companion attacked him and his baby mother.

Blak Ryno recently completed stints in French Guiana, Trinidad and returned to the island earlier this week following concerts in Tobago, Trinidad and Guyana, the latter was for accomplished West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle Birthday Celebrations. Upcoming performances include Belize and Costa Rica.

ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Rampin' Shop' gets five million Youtube views!

Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire will be heading to Europe at the end of this week for a whirlwind tour that will see him performing in three countries over a four-day span.

He will be one of the headliners at the Amsterdam Reggae Festival at the Heineken Music Hall in Holland tomorrow. He will also perform at the Crystal Lounge in Zurich, Switzerland, today and he will climax his European swing with a performance at the Elyesse Montmarte in Paris, France, on September 26.

Vybz Kartel was last in Europe three years ago where he also performed in Amsterdam, Holland and in Paris, France.

Vybz Kartel has already scored three number-one hit singles this year with Clarkes, Clarkes 2 and Straight Jeans and Fitted holding pole position on several charts.

THE JAMAICA STAR

ZJ Chrome blazing up the airwaves!

Creative, humble and enthused about music, ZJ Chrome has been blazing the airwaves not only on radio but with his own rhythms.

Having burst on to the production scene in 2007 with his Chromium rhythm which featured hits like Shake It Up from Munga and Twice A Day from Mavado, Chrome is continuing to make waves with his Cr203 Records. Born Shaun Chablal and hailing from Clarendon, Chrome has been a member of the Zip FM family for the last seven years playing the music before deciding to go into producing.

He told THE weekend STAR recently, "ZJ Chrome is the untouchable, meaning untouchable mixes, vibes, energy just the musical side of who I am. I got started in music when I was 13 and when I saw a man scratching a record on TV and I said I have to learn to do that and that became my motivator to become a DJ."

According to Chrome, he decided to produce music in 2007 when ideas for rhythms began "popping" into his head. The ZJ came on the scene with Chromium and followed up with sombre Recession. It was the dancehall banger Trippple Bounce with Hope and Pray from Mavado, Mr Officer from Kartel, however, that he cites as his big break into music. Triple Bounce earned Chrome a nomination for an Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) Award. The popular Madd Collab followed with the smash hit Clarkes, then the one drop Cardiac Bass and more recently Smokin.

own influence

While he doesn't build the rhythms himself, Chrome says he's always present to put his own influence in the music, directing patterns and ideas. He said, "anything that has creativity and vibes to it, I love it. People do say other people 'make for me', while it's truth, I'm fine with it. I'm not a musician but it's my creative idea that is being heard on the record. I just don't sit and somebody make me a rhythm and claim it's mine."

As to whether he expected to achieve such success with his works he said, "you don't go in with an expectation, just go in with whatever I feel and like and hope people like it too." According to Chrome, Smokin, which has songs such as Stulla from Mavado, Dumpa Truck from Kartel and Whine from Stephen McGregor, has been getting great reviews. Coming out soon, Chrome says will do a few singles with the likes of Kartel, Konshens, Assasin, Munga, Bugle and Serani and a new rhythm titled Dancehall EFX. For the future, the ZJ joked, "I see myself at home just resting watching the money pile up."

THE JAMAICA STAR

Jamaica's Mavado signs Lime deal!

Jamaica's Singjay Mavado is on a high after signing an endorsement deal with telecommunications giant Lime.

The singjay officially inked the deal this week and, according to his manager, Julian Jones-Griffith, is pleased by what they believe is another positive move.

Jones-Griffith told THE WEEKEND STAR they were approached by Lime more than a month ago and are now officially part of the Lime family. This will be the first major endorsement deal signed by the artiste. As part of his deal, Mavado will be involved in advertisements, billboards and appearances for the company.

a great move

According to Jones-Griffith, Mavado and Lime have been working closely together at their events such as the recently concluded Fashion Night Out. He said, "This is a great move for Mavado and really reflects positively on him and his image overall. There's been a marked upturn in the amount of corporate work he has been doing in the past year and we really appreciate the support from corporate Jamaica."

Mavado is among artistes who will be advertising for the company.

In recent months, the singjay has been striving to be a positive influence. He and long time rival Vybz Kartel closed the books on their musical war. Since then, Mavado has assisted in bringing peace in his Cassava Piece community. A change has also been noted in his songs that have been socially conscious such as Change Right Now.

Mavado is also in the process of building a learning centre in Cassava Piece, to be opened in January. In early September, the singer also hosted a special back-to-school treat for the children of Kingston 8.

The good news for Mavado keeps on coming as Jones-Griffith explained that the singer was nominated for 'Best Reggae Act' at the 15th Annual MOBO Awards show taking place at the Liverpool Echo Arena on October 20th. The singer won his first MOBO award in 2008. The artiste also recently started his 'Guinness Stulla Wednesdays' at The New Quad and will be making a video for the song, Stulla, shortly.

'This is a great move for Mavado and really reflects positively on him and his image overall'.

THE JAMAICA STAR

Kanye West Responds To President Obama For Calling Him A "Jackass"!

In an interview for XXL, Kanye West expressed his thoughts on the comment President Barack Obama made a year ago after the rapper interrupted Taylor Swift at the MTV Video Music Awards of last year.

In an off camera recording, the President was filmed addressing Kanye as a “jackass” for disrespecting Swift while she was giving her acceptance speech.

So far the rapper had not answered to the President yet, although the two of them have met several times and have a solid relation. However, after a year, Ye has finally addressed the issue by asserting that he is sure President Obama had more serious things on his plate to think about than losing sleep over the well-known West-Taylor incident.

Kanye said, “When Obama called me ‘Jackass,’ after the Taylor incident, I thought that the [wrong] person [had] to be speaking off the record. Obama has way more important stuff to worry about than my public perception. He was trying to pass the healthcare bill. And if he said that to relate to the room or lighten the room up and the whole mood, then I'd be more than happy to be the butt of all of his jokes if it in the some way helps his overall mission.”

Ye concluded by claiming that, “I'm a soldier of culture. I'm resilient. I'm sure I'll still beat him in basketball.”

YORAPS.COM

Jay-Z Lands On Forbes 400 Billionaires List!

Hip-Hop mogul Jay-Z is one of 15 entrepreneurs Forbes magazine has predicted will be worth a billion dollars by the year 2015.

Jay-Z was named amongst an elite group of tech moguls, hedge-funders, athletes and entertainers who all have a chance of breaking into the Forbes 400 this decade.

According to Forbes, Jay-Z has a total worth of $450 million, through his Roc Nation label, his catalog, which returns to him in 2014, Rocawear and a stake in the New Jersey Nets.

The rap star/mogul was listed alongside movers and shakers like Facebook's Sean Parker ($900 million), Marc Pincus (Zynga $850 million), producer Jerry Bruckheimer ($850 million), Jerry Seinfeld ($800 million) and others.

Others on the list include: Eric Lefkofsky of Groupon ($750 million), hedge fund manager William Ackman ($700 million), Dennis Gillings of Quintiles ($700 million), Ray R. Irani of Occidental Petroleum ($700 million), movie producer James Cameron ($650 million), Michael Jordan ($500 million), Tiger Woods ($500 million), Craig Newmark of Craigslist ($400 million), Tyler Perry ($350 million) and Reid Hoffman of LinkedIn ($340 million).

Jay-Z met up with Forbes' billionaire founder and CEO/Editor-in-Chief Steve Forbes and fellow billionaire investor Warren Buffett to discuss his success.

"That was the greatest trick in music that people ever pulled off, to convince artists that you can't be an artist and make money," Jay-Z told Forbes about his tremendous success as an artist and business man. I think the people that were making the millions said that. It was almost shameful, especially in rock 'n' roll.

"Here you got these millionaire guys who had to pretend as if they weren't successful at all or it would be like a detriment to their career. Hip-hop from the beginning has always been aspirational," Jay-Z continued. "It always broke that notion that an artist can't think about money as well. Just so long as you separate the two and you're not making music with business in mind. At some point it has to be real when they touch it, when they listen to it. Something has to resonate with them that's real. When you're in the studio you're an artist, you make music, and then after you finish, you market it to the world. I don't think anything is wrong with that. In fact, I know there's nothing wrong with that."

Warren Buffett, 80, echoed Jay-Z's comments during the inaugural Forbes 400 Summit, which took place earlier this month at a restaurant near Buffett's Berkshire-Hathaway offices in Ohama, Nebraska.

"Jay said it perfectly when he talked about how he's in there recording for himself, and the money comes afterwards," Buffett said. "I got to do what I love, and it doesn't get any luckier than that. I would be doing what I do now and I would've done it in the past if the payoff had been in seashells, or sharks' teeth, or anything else."

ALLHIPHOP.COM

Blak Ryno 'stings' in Trinidad!

Blak Ryno aka The Stinger last weekend lived up to his namesake, delivering another stinging performance to the packed house at the Sting Night Club in La Romain, Southern Trinidad.


The Dancehall recording artiste armed with a bevy of new material combined with his recent hits, served up a musical feast at the event dubbed ‘Dancehall Face-Off’. His fiery set had patrons clamouring for more, evident by the loud screams and banging against the walls of the facility as he unravelled his lyrical artistry.

The single ‘Real Stinga’, one of the deejay’s most popular hits on the twin island republic gained him some of the biggest forward of the night.

Armed with two new videos ‘Come A Mi Yard’, ‘Wine & Dip’ and several new singles, Ryno is back in Jamaica preparing for an intense promotional campaign.

His latest effort entitled ‘Shadez’ featuring Seanizzle on the Split Personality Rhythm continues to find favour on the FM airwaves. The song was produced by Seanizzle Records.

ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Mavado starts Stulla Wednesdays - Guinness, Quad join with artiste in hosting weekly event!

Singjay Mavado will be trying his hand as a promoter at his 'Guinness Stulla Wednesdays' which kicks off at the New Quad tonight.

This will be the singjay's first time promoting a weekly event, having hosted events in his community of Cassava Piece as well as his birthday party at various venues.

When THE STAR spoke to Mavado's manager Julian Jones-Griffith he explained that Mavado had been thinking about having his own weekly event for sometime. He said, "we've been thinking of doing it but it was really the operators of the Quad that contacted us about it, so it's a partnership between us. We came up with the name and picked the selectors we wanted etc."

PR and Marketing Officer for the New Quad, IB Konteh, told THE STAR, "we wanted someone who's hot in the business now to do a series with and Mavado naturally came to mind. We pitched the idea and he loved it and Guinness loved it. The club scene has really been missing a dancehall night for years now. Cactus used to do it and so did Asylum but we wanted to bring back an authentic dancehall vibe that's fun and everybody can come to."

The name was chosen from Mavado's latest song Stulla on the 'Smokin' rhythm. In a release sent to THE STAR the singjay said, "It seemed like the perfect name for the weekly event. Because it's so fresh and full of energy."

everybody will be happy

He also added in the release, "It's the ideal place for everyone to come and party. It's a club that is central and everyone is familiar with and Stulla Wednesdays will be catering to everyone. We can party right through without disturbance. We have hand-picked the best selectors every week so everybody will be happy."

To kick off the event music will be from selectors such as Tony Matterhorn
, Boom Boom and FAME FM's Arif 'Supa' Cooper. According to Jones-Griffith, fans can expect to see Mavado, as well as other 'Gully' members, partying at Stulla Wednesdays on a regular. However, he says it's open to everyone to come out and party saying, "you can expect to see a lot of people in the entertainment community there, not just Alliance related."

In the meantime Mavado has been busy in the studio working with Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor among others and has some overseas collaborations with an American rapper called Vado - among others.

THE JAMAICA STAR

Chedda and ZJ Bambino tops 150,000 views on youtube!

Darkcide Media recording artiste Chedda and radio personality Trevor Off-Key more popularly known as ZJ Bambino, continues to enjoy immense success with their ‘Fake Jeans Admit It’ video since its release over two weeks ago. The video now in rotation throughout the Caribbean region has racked up an impressive 150,000+ views on the popular Youtube video network and is set to make it’s official debut on African Television this week.


Shot throughout the enclaves of Downtown Kingston under the direction of Roger B Stillz, the video will premier on Steppin Razor TV later this week. Steppin Razor TV which airs on Citizen TV in Kenya and DSTV Channel 146 in the wider Africa is one of the continents’ premier entertainment television programme, showcasing stories of celebrities and their artistic achievements. The show also covers the spectrum of Jamaican entertainment, the history, successes & accolades.

Chedda whose given name is Tyrello Johnson and his management are now in talks with Iceyjace Film Factory to shoot a second video for his single ‘Cleanest’ with teen sensation QQ. The single was recently featured as one of the official tracks on the LIME Road Show held on Friday’s Fashion Night Out.

Meanwhile his latest effort ‘Gyal Clown’ produced by Rapid Burst Entertainment continues to find favour on the FM airwaves and is the first single from the soon-to-be released compilation of a similar name.

ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO BELOW:

Vybz Kartel and the Empire head to Europe next weekend!

Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire will be heading to Europe at the end of this week for a worldwind tour that will see him performing in three countries over a four day span.

He will be one of the headliners at the Amsterdam Reggae Festival at
the Heineken Music Hall in Holland on Saturday, September 25th. He
will also perform on at the Crystal Lounge in Zurich, Switzerland on
Friday, September 24th and he will climax his European swing with a
performance at the Elyesse Montmarte in Paris, France on September
26th.

Vybz Kartel was last in Europe three years ago where he also performed
in Amsterdam, Holland and in Paris, France.

ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Judge Summons T.I. To Appear In Court!

A federal judge signed a summons yesterday (September 16) for T.I. (real name Clifford Harris Jr.) to appear in court and explain why his probation should not be revoked in light of his recent arrest in Los Angeles.

U.S. District Judge Charles Pannel Jr., the same judge who sentenced Tip for his firearms violations last year, signed the summons but did not set a date for the hearing.

According to the order, signed by T.I.’s probation officer, he is facing three possible violations: one for being in possession of Ecstasy on September 1; another for testing positive for opiates following a urine test at the U.S. Probation Office in L.A., the day after his arrest; and lastly for associating with Cortez Thomas, a convicted felon, on September 1st without the prior approval of his probation officer Jack D. Briscoe.

One of Harris’ attorneys, Steve Sadow, declined to comment on the upcoming hearing, but Dwight Thomas, another lawyer on Tip’s legal team told TMZ that at the meeting they “will have the opportunity to present mitigating evidence or arguments on T.I.’s behalf.”

The Atlanta-based MC and his wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle were arrested at the beginning of the month after the Maybach he was in was pulled over for allegedly making an illegal u-turn in the Hollywood area. Authorities then searched the car after claiming they smelled Marijuana smoke and found pills that have been identified as Ecstasy on both the rapper and his wife’s persons, but not in the car.

YORAPS.COM

Kartel seeks 'Empire' recruits!

Deejay Vybz Kartel is hunting new talent for his Portmore Empire in the form of a talent search, which will take place tonight at The Building in New Kingston.

The 'Gaza Talent Search' will take the place of the recently removed 'Fresh Fridays' in The Building.

Speaking to THE STAR recently, Kartel explained how the search came about. "The teacha has always been bussing artistes, but the idea for doing an official talent search came from my Street Vybz pawdie, Corey Todd (owner of the Building)."

In a release sent to THE STAR, Corey Todd added: "The search will start this Friday and continue every Friday until January. We will be searching for selectors, deejays, singjays and female dance groups."

According to Kartel, the finals will be held in December and the winners will be announced and signed by January. An application form, Kartel said, will be made available at The Building where persons can sign up.

"The judge will ultimately be the crowd. We will be monitoring and will have the final say, though."

What is Kartel looking for in his latest additions to the Portmore Empire? He said, "I'm looking for original sounds like me and Popcaan, just be original and fresh." Todd said the talent search is a real chance for an entertainer to buss in the business. The show will be hosted by Boasy Boy Floyd and excerpts of the show will be aired on Hype TV.

cash prize

Each winner will be signed to the Portmore Empire and receive a cash prize of $250,000

Known for breaking new acts such as Gaza Slim, Popcaan, Blak Ryno, Jah Vinci, Gaza Indu, Merital Family and Lisa Hype, Kartel said young members of the Empire are doing well.

He said: "Slim is going to England this weekend, Popcaan is going to Holland and France at the end of September and Shawn Storm is doing a Japan tour in October."

THE JAMAICA STAR

Reggae's top earners-Website names artistes making the money!

Shaggy reportedly tops list of richest Reggae acts

The top 10 living Jamaican artistes have amassed some US$90 million (J$7.7 billion) in net worth, equivalent to the annual export earnings from bauxite or sugar based on data from an online media report released last week.

These artistes, more than others, sold millions of records, toured successfully and entered into successful business ventures, according to the urbanislandz.com report. It listed the net worth of:

1. Shaggy at US$22 million ($1.8 billion)

2. Jimmy Cliff at US$18 million ($1.5 billion)

3. Sean Paul at US$11 million ($944 million)

4. Ziggy Marley at US$10 million ($858 million)

5. Sean Kingston at US$7 million ($601 million)

6. Damian Marley at US$6 million ($515 million)

7. Maxi Priest at US$4.6 million ($395 million)

8. Buju Banton at US$4 million ($343 million)

9. Beenie Man at US$3.7 million ($318 million)

10. Bounty Killer at US$3 million ($258 million)

Verification of these figures are hidden within music and tour contracts, however, Urban Islandz says it has compiled its data from sources both online and offline.

"We strive to make sure the content we published is fully accurate but we cannot always guarantee this," it stated about its list. Urban Islandz, an entertainment company, said it compiled the data to highlight "that our reggae/dancehall artistes are doing well on the global scale in the face of mounting criticisms that our music is in decline".

Shaggy topped the list due to selling over 20 million copies worldwide of his 2001 album Hot Shot, but equally due to securing a lucrative royalty deal for that album better than 90 per cent of the industry, they said.

"Shaggy managed to sign a sweet deal with UMG, named MCA Records at the time, where he earned (greatly on) each album sold for Hot Shot. Majority of artistes are lucky to earn $1 off each album sold. The Marley's on the other hand having their own company to work with, puts them at an advantage to earn more off album sales," stated urbanislandz in a written response to Splash's queries. "Regarding tour dates, again each artist's earnings vary according to their popularity and demands. Therefore, when artistes like Sean Paul or Sean Kingston would earn an average US$40,000 per tour date, other artists like Bounty and Beenie would be brushing an average US$10,000."

A respected musician and producer who toured with at least one the top five artistes told Splash that the data seemed credible. He spoke on condition of anonymity in order to respect private conversations with artistes.

"Sean Paul is conservative and I remember he even avoided buying a NY apartment calling it unnecessary. It is possible that Bounty Killer amassed that amount because he is also a conservative spender and has other businesses. Regarding Jimmy Cliff, definitely. He has been around from in the heyday of reggae and has been involved in music, songwriting and movies. He did songwriting for big artistes and also got his songs covered by the likes of Bruce Springsteen with Trapped. That would have been a big money earner," he said.

The combined worth at US$90 million is greater than the annual earnings from Jamaica's major exports including bauxite at US$85 million in 2009 (separate from the US$368 million earned from alumina exports) and sugar at US$72 million according to Bank of Jamaica statistics. It signifies the earning potential of the nation's music which has come under threat in recent years from international gay and government lobby groups. Consequently, all the top 10 artistes made the bulk of their income prior to the mid 2000s, but Urban Islandz has not discounted Reggae/Dancehall's future earning potential. They expect newcomers to factor on the list in the medium-term.

"Gyptian is one artiste to look out for as his career is doing exceptionally good and if this momentum takes him into next year and his album Hold Yuh sells well, he could become a strong contender. Mavado also is one to watch, something good should be happening for his career soon...Vybz Kartel is another to watch too, but may need a deal with a major label to put him there. Another reggae fusion artiste to watch is Iyaz from the Virgin Islands who is signed to Sean Kingston's label," Urban Islandz told Splash.

THE JAMAICA OBSERVER

Gaza Slim brings the 'Gaza' to London this weekend!

Even though the international press is raving over the Pope's visit to England, there is one other notable visitor to Great Britain this week, an emissary from the Gaza, the ultra-talented Gaza Slim aka Vanessa Bling. Her visit is significant because as you may well know, "the Queen of England haffi love off yardie".

"I just want to thank the Almighty for this opportunity, for without Him, none of this would be possible. I feel so proud that my career is doing so well, and I am going to England to represent for me and the whole Empire to the fullest. I am not going to let Vybz Kartel or my fans down," she told one876entertainment.com.

Gaza Slim's One Man hit #1 on several local charts over the Summer and her song is a fixture on many playlists and in clubs overseas.

"Yea, man, the ting tun up now," she said.

ONE876ENTERTAINMENT.COM

Drake Readies "It's Never Enough" For December Release!

October’s very own may now become December’s very best, with rapper Drake pushing the completion of his latest mixtape, It’s Never Enough, to around December.

Unsure of the actual release month, the Canadian-born rapper told MTV, “I'm hoping for Christmas time. I'd really love to get it out for Christmas time. Next month, I'll be on tour. I'm gonna really get to put the finishing touches on it in November and December. Because it's a mixtape, I don't have to wait for the production of it.”

With nods from his crew and label mates, Drake’s new mixtape will consist of songs that have never been heard from the Young Money artist. Much of Drake’s material has been available through multiple Internet facets over the last year, including his first mixtape So Far Gone, which was available at no cost prior to his major popularity boost.

Drake ensures fans will be surprised with the new material on It’s Never Enough, stating, “It's all new music...So all those are references. I had some references that were for Jamie Foxx, some that were for Rita Ora from Roc Nation. All the R&B stuff that recently leaked, that's not for the tape.”

Drake has not released many details about his upcoming mixtape with the exception of mentioning the first song on the project entitled I Get Lonely Too. While headlining his own tour dates, Drake will also be one of the attractions on the upcoming Welcome Home Weezy Concert along with Young Money label mate Nicki Minaj on November 5.

YORAPS.COM

Serani completes successful shows in US over the weekend!

Dancehall maestro Serani completed a very successful weekend in the United States for Labour Day weekend, starting with a benefit concert in Brooklyn for Haiti, followed by a show-stealing performance at HOT 97's On Da Reggae Tip.

"I think my performance surprised some people because I think they might not know how hard and how often I've been working," said Serani in a release. "I've been pretty much touring straight for two years, non-stop and I've worked really hard at my stage craft. We've also been focusing on markets that could be described as non-traditional for dancehall acts and really been trying to break those as well. I've been to Europe three times already this year, so we're just trying to get the music
out there on a wide scale. Every artiste did very well at On Da Reggae Tip and it was a great platform for me to showcase how far I have come."

After rocking a Spanish club in Queens after Friday night's Reggae Tip show, Serani made the dash from New York to Orlando for the inaugural staging of Reggae Fest at the prestigious Hard Rock Café inside Universal Studios. Performing alongside Shaggy, Rupee, Barrington Levy, Gyptian and others, Serani gave another performance that had the packed venue singing along to his songs.

Trekking back to New York on the Sunday, Serani appeared at BB Kings for Bobby Konders and Jabba, before demolishing Webstar Hall for a show hosted by HOT 97's Mr Cee.

Serani then joined a host of Jamaican acts on Monday's West Indian Labour Day Parade through the streets of Brooklyn, that attracts a crowd estimated to be in excess of one million people.

Serani leaves for the United Kingdom and Europe this month for several shows, before appearing at Miami Carnival in October.

THE JAMAICA STAR

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

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

Speaking to THE WEEKEND STAR, 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."

don't sling guns

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 by THE WEEKEND STAR 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 THE WEEKEND STAR 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."

THE JAMAICA STAR

Jay-Z, Will Smith Comment On Willow Smith's Deal With Roc Nation!

Jay-Z has confirmed that he has signed Will Smith's daughter Willow to a new deal on his label, Roc Nation.

The rapper/mogul appeared on Ryan Seacrest's show this morning and confirmed rumors that he snatched up Willow, whose song "Whip My Hair" has generated an instant buzz.

"We at Roc Nation are excited to work with Willow," Jay-Z told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "She has an energy and enthusiasm about her music that is truly infectious. It's rare to find an artist with such innate talent and creativity at such a young age. Willow is about to embark on an incredible journey and we look forward to joining her as she grows in all aspects of her career."

Willow, 9, already has a career, having landed roles in I Am Legend and in Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa.

"After meeting with several record companies, it was clear that Jay-Z, Ty Ty, Jay Brown and the Roc Nation staff was the unquestionable choice," Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "Their passion for Willow combined with their boundless vision and artistic integrity made Roc Nation the perfect home for our little girl."

According to Jay-Z, Willow's advanced beyond her years and has a vision for her career in the music industry, despite only being nine. He noted that superstars like Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder started their careers off young.

“I heard the record first before I knew that it was recorded by a nine year old and I was like man that record's a smash,” Jay-Z told Ryan Seacrest. “I believe in superstars. I believe on big records on superstars and I think she has both."

Rap runs in the family's blood.

In 1985, Will Smith started off as a rapper in known as The Fresh Prince, from the streets of Philadelphia, along with his partner DJ Jazzy Jeff.

Willow's 12-year-old brother Jaden also raps on a song called "Never Say Never" with teen idol, Justin Bieber.

And their mother, Jada Pinkett-Smith, front a hard rock band, Wicked Wisdom.

A release date for Willow Smith's Roc Nation debut was not available as of press time.

ALLHIPHOP.COM

Etana to act in movie!

Reggae songbird Shauna McKenzie, better known as Etana, has broadened her list of attri-butes in entertainment.

The Reggae ambassador has secured an acting role in the soon-to-be-released film, Ghett'a Life. The movie's official premiere is scheduled for summer 2011. This will debut Etana as an actress and marks her arrival to the film industry. Fans can expect a different side to the performer in her fresh role, acquired through a successful audition.

Etana plays the role of 'Arnette', the mother of a troubled youth, frantically trying to get over on the other side. The film is directed by Chris Browne best known from the movie, Third World Cop.

enthused about venture

Etana is enthused about this new venture and hopes her fans and the general public will share in her joy and excitement when the film hits theatres.

The cast boasts notable Jamaican actors like Winston 'Bello' Bell, Chris McFarlane, Carl Davis and Teddy Price. Ghett'a Life has completed its principal photography and is currently in post production. In early 2011 screening will commence at international film festivals.

favourite star

Etana enjoys watching Academy Award winning actress, Angelina Jolie
, who is among her favourite Hollywood movie star.

As one would imagine, the songstress has a very busy music schedule with local and overseas shows, coupled with the release of her sophomore album titled, Free Expressions. It's amazing how she maintains focus to continue dominating at the top of the charts with her current number one single, Free.

The singer now turned actress says she prioritises and sticks to her schedule to strike a balance for smooth operation. She considers herself ready and welcomes more acting roles in the future.

THE JAMAICA STAR

Nicki Minaj Talks "Marriage" To Drake!

In an interview last weekend with Atlanta’s own DJ Drama on Hot 107.9 radio station, Nicki Minaj discussed her “marriage” to Young Money label-mate Drake, BET’s My Mic Sounds Nice special, and the upcoming release of her debut album, Pink Friday.

Barbz and Drakettes around the world wept when Nicki and Drake announced their “marriage” via Twitter, which was “annulled” nearly one day later, two weeks ago.

Minaj told DJ Drama that Drake is like her little brother, “We were just being mischievous...I wanted to give the blogs a little payback.” She went on to say, “I think boys are yucky”; a statement that will surely have gossip sites buzzing about her sexuality.

Being the focus of many online best female in Hip-Hop debates, Minaj was also very verbal about the premiere of BET’s special My Mic Sounds Nice in which female rappers of the past and present discussed the importance of females in the male dominant rap world. Although Minaj was not one of the females interviewed her presence in Hip-Hop was discussed. Lady of Rage described her as Missy, Kim, and Eve combined while underground rapper Tiye Pheonix condemned the rapper stating, “Females, like myself, we in the underground paying dues. We committed.” To that Minaj told Drama, “People almost forget that you were an underground struggling artist at one time...Boo, I grinded for the last 7 years of my life and I’m not gonna feel guilty for anything I’m getting right now”.

Overall, Minaj is excited about her debut album, Pink Friday, releasing November 23 and the praise she’s received on her verse of Kanye West’s song Monster, “I just been blessed with being on a song with 2 living legends...I’m happy that people think I murdered the record”.

YORAPS.COM

WHO IS 'LP'?

Scoring his first #1 hit on iTunes in the UK and enjoying favourable air play on local radio 'name & number' featured on the MAJOR/MINOR riddim produced by internationally acclaimed producer Don Corleon is the first hit single-as LP is set to make his name in the music Industry.

Lewis "LP" Planter is a multi-talented songwriter, producer & artiste originally from London, United Kingdom but grew up mainly in the hills of St.Elizabeth, Jamaica, where he attended Munro College at secondary level. LP started making music from the young age of 15 years old using the Fruity Loops software where he exercised his musical talent. Drawing Influences from producers such as The Neptunes, Timbaland, The Underdogs and most recently Stephen Mcgregor, Craig Parks & Daseca he began to develop his own versatile sound as he explored the area of music production. With regards to LP as the artiste, he draws resemblances to the flows and lyrics of his dancehall & reggae influences Shabba Ranks, Super Cat, Garnet Silk & Beres Hammond.

As the years progressed, LP started experimenting with new music hardware and purchased himself a MPC 500, a sampler/sequencer, and began to formulate a unique sound with use of samples and adding his own melodies. As a current student at the Birmingham City University studying Bsc Sound Engineering, he continues to release new material and expand on his knowledge of the music industry as well as learning new recording/production techniques. After making his name on the popular website, Facebook.com, he continues to share videos and links to his music that has been produced from the realms of his student bedroom at his current university. With a versatile balance of lyricism, production, & vocal ability, Lewis "LP" Planter is destined for success & one definitely to look out for years to come.

CLICK HERE to join his group on facebook

CLICK HERE to become a fan on facebook

CLICK HERE to purchase 'name & number' on iTunes

'Flossin' neva stops' - Flippa says on new YouTube video!

After being released from prison for about a week, a video has surfaced on the Internet with Flippa Mafia in which he claims 'nutten nuh change'.

The 3:22-minute long video appeared on YouTube, on Saturday, under the title, 'Flippa Mafia Speaks and Is Out On Bail In The United States'.

It starts off with the artiste, whose real name is Andrew Davis, in a recording booth stating that he is back to take what is rightfully his. Then, he goes on to talk to a group of people in the studio.

"It's good to be here. I am proud to be out and about, again. Nutten nuh change, Skilly. How mi look?," he says, while someone responds by shouting ,'clean'.

"Yuh nuh see seh a Louis Vuitton still deh pon mi foot. LV, a nuh no normal LV. Mi pants a LV same way. Nutten nuh change, a still brand. Flossing neva stop, it continue. We neva drop di ting. Flippa neva gone no weh. Mi just tek a small vacation, fi hear weh people haffi seh. But hear weh mi haffi tell dem seh, when yuh a dig hole, dig more than one."

But this is the first time there is any real evidence of Flippa's release from jail since his incarceration in March. From as early as last Tuesday, there were reports from his close friends that he had been released from lock-up.

arrested

Flippa was arrested earlier this year, after he was allegedly caught trying to enter the United States illegally from the Bahamas, via a boat. After being arrested, Flippa was being held as a prosecution witness against Julio Santiesteban and Armando Amat, who were charged with encouraging and inducing an alien to enter or reside in the United States. Afterwards, Flippa was in Federal custody, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and then at Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility in Philadelphia.

Meanwhile, in the video, Flippa also deejays lyrics from what seems like a new song.

In it he sings, "Flippa deh back pon road again/ So tell di whole a dem seh wi nah beg no fren/ Di Mafia deh back road again/ Dem a gwaan like dem wid mi but a pretend dem a pretend/ Mi get lock up and dem a gwaan like mi dead/ Di amount a remarks dem pass over mi head/ But from mi likkle and a grow, mi grandmother always tell mi seh nuh dash weh nutten if it nuh dead."

He continues, seemingly throws words at other entertainers who have tax and visa woes:

"All nuff a dem a talk mi still richer than dem/ IRS sort out mi nuh have no tax problem/ Nobody caan tek weh my vehicle like fi dem/ Dem a worry bout mi green card when dem have visa problem/ Tell dem mi come fi run things again," he says.

In ending the video, he says, "mi a straighten out everything and mek dem know wi neva ever drop di ting. Anyweh mi go, mi a di flossing king. Mi jewellery dem don't sell, nutten no sell."

THE JAMAICA STAR

SEE THE VIDEO BELOW:

DANCER MYSTIC "CROSSOVER" TO RECORDING ARTISTE!

Popular female dancer Mystic has joined dancehall artiste and producer Leftside on his ′Want Your Body′ single.

The two recently created the remix, which has been getting a good response from fans on popular social-networking sites.

Mystic, known as a creative female dancer rather than a mainstream dancehall artiste, said in a recent interview she always liked the idea of being an artiste. She maintains that although she does songs, she will always still be dancing.

"It′s not necessarily a switch from dancing but it’s a transformation into a whole, full package. I always could write and I could also hold a note, so when I went into the studio I actually sounded good," said Mystic."Leftside was someone who I always held in high regard plus I love dancing to his music. It was really easy working with him,"

Mystic has other songs such as Too Much Bull, a collaboration with Macka Diamond, Mad Michelle, Mumzel, Queen Latisha and ZJ Sparks which went to number one on the Bubblers Chart in Canada and Wine Up for Mafia of Loud Disturbance Records, she has also performed recently in Trinidad.

Mystic is also venturing into the business world as she now has her own dance classes at Baron′s Plaza in Constant Spring. According to Mystic, "It’s really affordable and it′s a great way to lose weight."

The video for the remix is already been released and fans can expect more good songs from Mystic and Leftside on his latest Gal Pharm rhythm.

ZIPFM.NET

No bad blood - Liquid, Kartel say there is no rift!

Addressing rumours of a rift between himself and deejay Vybz Kartel, DJ Liquid says, 'Everything is cool.'

Rumours of a rift have been circulating since Friday, after a broadcast message was sent via Blackberry messenger that was allegedly sent by Kartel and directed at the Zip Jock. In the message Kartel seemingly takes offence to Liquid's use of his slang 'Oh'. The broadcast read, "pawdie how ya tell people say a you gimme 'oh'. Liquid, mi a tek it to the stage shows and tell people dem fi warn you and Beenie. Member mi a one of the baddest deejay ever and you a wanna-be DJ. You tek mi style and never say thanks. If you haffi gimme a line in a tune mi stop DJ."

Describing the incident as "foolishness" Liquid described Kartel as a friend and brethren and could not understand how the broadcast and its content came about. Liquid, however, says "mi alrite, mi good. Mi just 'low it and start pree tings differently."

When contacted Kartel also confirmed that the two were good.

THE JAMAICA STAR

Rapper T.I., Wife Tiny Face A Year Over Ecstasy; Metha-Amphetamines!

Atlanta Hip-Hop star T.I. could be heading back to prison, after police allegedly found meth-amphetamines and ecstasy in his Maybach last night (September 1st) in West Hollywood, California.

According to the LA County Sheriff's department, the charges T.I. faces include a minimum sentence of a year in state prison, in addition to fines that will be determined by a judge.

According to TMZ.com, T.I. and his wife Tiny Cottle were stopped in their expensive Maybach coup for a traffic violation around 10:30PM last night.

Police searched the vehicle after smelling marijuana and found the drugs, reported to be meth-amphetamines and ecstasy.

Both were booked on felony possession of a controlled substance and have since been released on $10,000 bail, a piece.

Tiny was arrested for possessing marijuana and ecstasy in the past.

In October of 2007, Tiny was arrested for possession of marijuana and ecstasy, during a sting operation that resulted in T.I.'s arrest.

The rapper is currently serving a three-year probation after he pleaded guilty in May of 2009, for attempting to purchase machine guns and silencers before the BET Awards in 2007.

T.I., born Clifford Harris Jr., was released from prison in March of 2010.

He currently stars in the movie Takers, which was the #1 box office draw pulling in over $20 million.

ALLHIPHOP.COM

Ragashanti will be back - Returns on air in October to a new radio station!

Radio
talk-show host Ragashanti may be gone from NewsTalk 93FM but he will soon be back on air, as he is set to return in October to a new radio station.

Dr Kingsley 'Ragashanti' Stewart officially resigned from NewsTalk 93FM from his morning show 'Ragashanti Live' yesterday and while on air was cut off by the station's management.

While speaking to THE STAR yesterday Ragashanti explained he had handed in his letter of resignation effective immediately yesterday and was in the process of telling his listeners goodbye when he was cut off air.

He said: "I'm not surprised by actions consistent with my relationship wid dem (NewsTalk), and their relationship with staff." According to Ragashanti, he is well aware he is not the station's favourite person and he resigned because he did not want to 'battle' with the station over what he believes is a "culture clash" between himself and them. He described the clash as "equally frustrating and annoying".

The University of the West Indies, Mona, operators of NewsTalk 93FM, released a statement yesterday stating: "the board of management of the station after careful review of the matter determined that in the best interest of the University of the West Indies, Mona, and the station, that the programme should be discontinued with immediate effect and appropriate music played until further notice."

Not disclosing which station he would be on, Ragashanti said he will be back on air in October. "It's time to move on and I have the options to do so," he said.

He added: "I want to send out a huge thanks to my supporters for their understanding and appreciation of the show, it was a wonderful experience with the listeners."

According to the radio host and personality, his new show will have a few changes with new features and says it will have, "mix up without apology, it's all about making people laugh." Ragashanti believes he is representing a faction of society not usually represented in the media.

You can still catch Ragashanti every Tuesday and Thursday in the THE STAR for his column 'Mix Up and Blenda'.

THE JAMAICA STAR