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Tempo Radio | News Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:11:25 GMT Tempo<br /> Read the latest news headlines or why not visit our website at http://www.temporadio.co.uk/ http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/ Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:11:25 GMT en-gb 15 Gloomy Days Finally Over As Rihanna Releases ‘Rude Boy’ When it comes to Rihanna it’s very hard not to like the girl, what’s not to like? She’s proved to be a strong, sexy, fashionista, continually bringing new trends to the forefront. Ok so money brought her the best stylist, but still it is nice to have a Caribbean Stunner in the limelight representing, right?Rihanna has managed to brush herself off after the highly publicised relationship with Chris Brown and continued with her hugely successful career.I for one have found myself liking the majority of Rihanna’s music over the years but with the latest drop of her album ‘Rated R’ I was very much disappointed; it seemed produced with complete disarray and a very dark sombre mood follows through the entire album. However Rihanna’s new single ‘Rude Boy’ taken off the ‘Rated R’ album seems to be the only single to stand out, it’s the only upbeat track on the album. Noted, her album was recorded and released soon after her assault by ex-boyfriend, Rihanna was obviously thinking with her state of mind back then hence the entire album being so depressing. Nevertheless Rihanna did produce ‘Rude Boy’ during her darkest days. Managing to put her vocals onto an energetic, up-tempo reggae inspired song. The video certainly captures and represents the song extraordinarily well - a dancehall-queen feel, the video lives up to true Caribbean flavour depicting colourful pop art throughout and some mesmerising booty shaking courtesy of Ms Rihanna, definitely a dance floor hit and with that I bring you more good news. Rihanna was quoted saying, “her next album will be less dark and more pop orientated”. Written By: Nadia Auckburally   http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/165 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:56:30 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/165 2010 Trinidad Carnival Results 2010 BAND OF THE YEAR RESULTS   Small Band of the Year 1. Tribal Connection - Inner Circle of the Pow-Wow 2. The Boss - Music 3. Belmont Jewels - Pirates and Plunderers   Medium Band of the Year 2010 1. Ronnie & Caro - Tribute 2. Rosalind Gabriel - The Journey 3. D'Midas & Associates - Call that George Large Band of the Year 2010 1. Mac Farlene Carnival - Resurrection of the Mas 2. Trini Revellers - Festivals of the World 3. Legacy - Masala   Calypso Monarch Mr. Kurt Allen The King of Carnival Mr. Curtis Eustace The Queen of Carnival Ms. Rosemarie Kuru-Jagessar The Chutney Soca Monarch Ravi B The Power Soca Monarch / Road March title JW and Blaze The Groovy Soca Monarch Mr. Shurwayne Winchester The National Action Cultural Committee (NACC) Calypso Queen Ms. Kizzie Ruiz   The NACC King Mr. Winston “Gypsy” Peters Junior Calypso Monarch 6-year-old, Master Aaron Duncan The Junior King of Carnival Master Matthew Barnes The Junior Queen of CarnivalMs. Denesha Jennings.   http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/164 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 20:51:20 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/164 No Competition for ‘Palance’    The official Road March 2010 title has gone to ‘Palance’ by JW and Blaze at this year Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. The National Carnival Commission (NCC) official said there was no need to tally the score. Downtown Port-of-Spain was in the hands of the Palance dance, but this did not stop the revellers from Palancing in the high street, San Fernando and beyond. It seems as though ‘Palance’ had everyone leaning from side to side whenever it was played. ‘Palance’ is a word used by Trinidadians to reflect a sense of enjoyment, fun, partying, and any other sort of liming. ‘Palance’ has by far beaten its closest contenders by an outstanding ten-to-one ratio, which was played a mighty 417 times. Fay-Ann-Lyons ‘True Lies’ was the second most played song but it was only played 40 times. Machel Montano’s ‘No Behaviour’ came in third with a paltry 11 plays over the two-day parade.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/163 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 20:28:22 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/163 YOU ALL CAN PARTY! Beyonce tells screaming Savannah crowd Wayne BowmanTrinidad & Tobago Express Dressed in a gold one-piece swimwear-like outfit, mega star Beyonce, in her first ever performance in Trinidad and Tobago, took the Queen’s Park Savannah stage at the b-Mobile sponsored event at 8.23 last night. The United States-born R&B sensation kicked off her set with ’Crazy Love’, sending thousands of patrons wild with screams. She and two of her female dancers then raised the temperature with sultry dance moves as she sang ’Sexy Boy’. An all woman band commanded the audience alongside Beyonce, delivering hard-edged R&B music sharpened with rock and blues. ’This is my first time performing here and I can see you all can party. This show is very special to me, because it’s the last stop of the I AM tour,’ Beyonce told the fans. Along with her band, Beyonce had with her a troupe of dancers that included look-alikes and men. A huge video screen projected images and scenes that blended with the stage setting. When Beyonce, whose stage persona is Sasha Fierce, performed ’I Wanna Run’, she appeared on a stepped platform overlooking the stage dressed in white, with an animated beach scene behind her. She then moved into an adapted cover of ’Ave Maria’, for which bridal adornments were added to the outfit. Beyonce added a verse of ’In the Arms of an Angel’ to the piece. Earlier, soca superstar Machel Montano took to the stage for his opening act performance at 6 p.m., with a grand fanfare that included an intro featuring Optimus Prime and ending with Destra Garcia joining him on stage to sing ’Is Carnival’. It was the first time in three years that the two soca stars had performed together on stage. After the introduction, the band then struck up the music for ’No Behaviour’, as the HD Dancers took the stage. Then Montano appeared dressed in a silver outfit. With the crowd screaming, Montano sang, ’I Missed You’. He then moved into ’The Road’ followed by ’Doh Hold Me Back’. By this time, more people were getting into the groove and the band moved into ’Fly Away’. Next up was ’Slow Wine’, opening the way for Patrice Roberts to enter and exit within one minute. Montano took the focus again to do some new music as well, including ’Pepper’ with Serani’s vocals superimposed, followed by ’Ramajay’. Jamaican dancehall artiste Busy Signal then joined Montano with dancers to perform ’Whoii Gyul Whoii’. ’I can’t remember when last I’ve felt so happy. I took time off to reflect. You are no longer just fans, you are my family. This next song is for Haiti. Haiti will rise again,’ Montano told the crowd. Montano then sat at a piano to sing ’I Love You’, which he originally did in tribute to producer $hel $hoc, who died last year. Joining him on vocals was Umi Marcano. Next was ’Too Young To Soca’ alongside Timell Rivas, followed by ’Real Unity’ with Pranava. From there it was pure pace, beginning with ’One More Time’ and continuing with ’Dance With You’, ’Congoman’, ’Is Carnival’ and more.   http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/162 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:35:04 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/162 'Drinker' wins it for Ravi B Chutney Soca Monarch Ariti JankieTrinidad ExpressRikki Jai may have had the most popular chutney soca tune this season but the charming, happy-go-lucky Ravi Bissambhar with music in his soul drove an international audience into voting him into top position. Ravi B was announced the winner of the 2010 Chutney Soca Monarch championship at 3 a.m. yesterday at Skinner Park, San Fernando. The audience at the park and viewers worldwide were the judges as text votes poured in from 8 p.m. to midnight giving Ravi B the lead over 11 other finalists. He won a cash prize of $200,000. Five-time winner Rikki Jai made it to second place with ’Bar Man’ taking home a $100,000 prize while Moses Charles, who has been enjoying a successful season with ’Indrani’, was voted third.     Singing ’Drinker’, Ravi B who last year took second place with ’Dularie’ captured the essence of the chutney soca music with lyrics that surrendered to the consumption of alcohol where efforts were made to reduce the number of alcohol related compositions. Charles won $60,000 while Omardath Maraj placed fourth winning $40,000. Lalchan ’Hunter’ Babwah placed fifth with ’Puncheon’. He will receive along with all other finalists $30,000 each. They included three-time winner Heeralal Rampartap with ’Reviver’, Soca Elvis (Rum doh bother Me), Kris Persad (Nadia from Couva), Neeshan ’Hitman’ Prabhu (Spanner), Derrick Seales (Chutney lover), Andy Singh (Gul from India) and last year’s winner Kenneth Salick with ’How long I will wait.’ The competition was judged exclusively on a bmobile platform and each artiste had a code enabling a live as well as television and radio audience to text to SOCA and vote for their favourite artiste. The 15th annual carnival competition organised by Southex Promotions attracted a larger crowd this year and received a viewing audience from several countries including New Zealand, China, USA, Canada and a number of Caribbean countries. Southex chief executive officer George Singh said he was notified that large screens were set up in Canada and the US where chutney soca lovers gathered in groups to follow the contest. ’The response this year has been overwhelming with votes coming in from New Zealand and China as well as other parts of the world,’ he said. He said that the energy at Skinner Park was electrifying. ’It was the best year of the competition so far,’ the San Fernando businessman said. He increased his investment into the show from $4 million to $6 million this year and said that the Chutney Soca Monarch competition was near to his heart. Dubbed ’Festival, Night of the Stars,’ the show started at 8.30 p.m with the national anthem followed by fireworks before Michael Salickram led the Shiv Shakti dancers in a sizzling dance item to a medley on Bollywood tunes. Tight packed and fast paced, the onstage programme flowed smoothly with Anil Bheem and Shurwayne Winchester making way for the 12 finalists who each hit the stage with dramatic performances aided by troupes of top dancers. Last year’s winner Kenneth Salick failed to impress after turning his dream into reality with ’Radica’ and travelling to several countries for live performances. The chutney soca competition came to an end at midnight leaving several big bands to entertain the huge crowds. Alison Hinds who last year thrilled the Skinner Park crowd took the stage briefly with Nisha Bissambhar to lend their voices to the chorus of Ravi B’s ’Drinker’. The presentation was dramatic with modern and professional choreography. Ravi B returned to the stage after the contest to entertain with his band Karma. Top performer Anil Bheem and the BMRZ orchestra as well as JMC 3 Veni, Spread Pal Crew and Gayatones kept the party swinging until the early hours of yesterday morning. In his victory speech, Ravi B said that he would be taking chutney soca to Madison Square Garden, New York this summer. He received 9,575 votes to win the crown. The 27-year-old singer formed the band Karma with his sister Nisha Bissambhar seven years ago. The band has been enjoying tremendous success. Manager Rennie Mohammed said that they were booked until the middle of March when they leave for performances in cities of North American, Canada and Holland. The band returns home in May for a series of shows and leave again for Suriname, El Salvador, Spain and other countries. The band has released ten CDs so far.   http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/161 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:53:59 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/161 Machel... Spreading the gospel of soca Andre McEachnie Guardian Trinidad & Tobago  Machel Montano has always been a very intelligent and extremely talented performer. Some prominent people,however, have expressed great disappointment in his inability to move this music to another level. They have cited the lyrical content of the majority of his songs and the obsession with treating females only as sex objects. They insist that he has “the Midas touch” and anything he sings usually becomes a hit. This ability is not fully explored when the focus of the artiste appears to be producing music exclusively for the Carnival celebrations in Trinidad and the Caribbean diaspora. Celebration songs are important to Carnival because they drive the entertainment aspects of the festival in the fetes and playing mas on the road. Most of the soca artistes and local entertainers generate a significant portion of their annual income during this period. Machel has performed a few “love songs” and some “message songs,” which were equally successful. Eddy Grant once remarked that one of the major hindrances to soca gaining wider international appeal was the dearth of songs dealing with man/woman relationships in the context of love. He emphasised there was a need for more love songs in this music. This writer has enjoyed performances of Machel at shows in New York, and witnessed the tremendous control he has over his audience and the discomfort this power had on the New York law officers. Over the years this anxiety of the police might have been responsible for some of the parties he played being closed off earlier than originally advertised. A young relative has also seen Machel in full flight at one of the upscale clubs in Manhattan and Madison Square, and she continuously mentioned his level of professionalism in putting on a magnificent international show. When Machel appeared at the Calypso Dialogues at the University of the West Indies about five years ago, he did so with an acoustic guitar and he indicated he was trying to learn this instrument because he wanted to put more melodies into his songs. Since then, he has produced some songs with interesting melodies but he continues to rely on the rhythm of the music. Is the total reliance of rhythm appropriate for the marketing of soca music to a diverse international audience? There is a perception that large recording do not sign Trinidadian soca artistes because their representatives usually conclude that local artistes “cannot sing.” This description is not applicable to Machel because in his early years he sang a number of ballads to various audiences. It is a fact that most soca artistes utilise mainly rhythm and a staccato approach in presenting their songs, thereby reducing the use of melodies but producing a hypnotic effect on people enjoying the music. Soca songs with interesting melodies and varied lyrical content can help to eradicate the myth of “the can’t-sing Trinidadian soca performers.” Machel, congratulations on taking this critical decision (not to perform to a T&T audience this Carnival) which shows that you are a man of great courage and self belief. Everyone knows that this resolution comes with tremendous personal and financial sacrifices, since performing to a Trinidadian audience is utopia to some artistes and you usually generate substantial income during Carnival celebrations in Trinidad. Many of your friends, fans, masqueraders and even your detractors are going to miss your energetic live performances. You now have the opportunity to reflect on your position in the musical landscape of Trinidad and beyond. You must view yourself and your music as being more than just Carnival with its restrictive lyrics and instructional songs. The world must be your stage. Consider yourself as “Sometimes going to foreign lands, where they have never heard a calypsonian” (Shabaka–Soca Taking Over) Great religions of the world have always embraced reflection and sacrifices as essential tenets of their doctrines. You must accept your position of messenger and leader in spreading “the Gospel of Soca.” Your philosophical review should inform your development of various strategies to produce, perform and market quality music both locally and internationally. You are qualified to lead the musical brigade, as Rudder always mentions that you are different from many of the other soca artistes because you know the history, the traditions and the power of calypso music. Best of luck in the future. http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/160 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:46:18 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/160 Beyonce Caught In Caribbean Music War By Robert Plummer Business reporter, BBC News R&B diva Beyonce has a reputation for being one of the shrewdest businesswomen in music. Beyonce during a live outdoor performance at BBC Television Centre, November 2006 Beyonce is at the centre of two different disputes in Trinidad At a time of falling music sales, her most recent album, I Am... Sasha Fierce, has sold six million copies worldwide. Her concert tours, her endorsement of brands including L'Oreal cosmetics and her forthcoming Heat perfume - to be launched next month in the US - all add to her income. According to Forbes magazine, her earnings have topped $80m (£50m) a year for the past two years. But when she ventures into the Caribbean, her appearances seem to court controversy. On New Year's Eve, she was paid a reported $2m fee for performing at a private party on the exclusive island of St Barts, but a wave of bad publicity ensued when it emerged that her patron was Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi's son Mutasim-Billah. Now she is set to return to the region with a concert next month in Trinidad and Tobago - but the news has already angered the local music industry and given new impetus to a bitter battle between the country's two mobile phone providers. Culture clash The problem is that Beyonce's show in Port-of-Spain is being sponsored by local phone company TSTT, which is 51% owned by the government and 49% owned by global telecoms giant Cable & Wireless (C&W). [TSTT] blanked the local culture and pushed the foreign KMC, soca singer It is also taking place on Thursday, 18 February - immediately after Trinidad and Tobago's world-renowned carnival. With ticket prices for the concert ranging from $71 to $253, organisers of carnival bands and shows are worried that it will absorb money that would otherwise have gone into their pockets. "We have nothing against Beyonce," says Gregory Fernandes, who used to run some of the carnival's biggest events as head of the Caribbean Prestige Foundation. "We are just saying that it is insensitive to bring her at this time. It will affect all carnival stakeholders." Part of that perceived insensitivity comes from the feeling that locally produced soca music is losing out to glossy international pop. TSTT logo TSTT is accused of favouring Beyonce over Trinidad and Tobago's carnival "Our culture of carnival is on the way out," complained one reader in the letters columns of the Trinidad & Tobago Express. "What used to be the greatest show on earth is playing second fiddle to another people's culture." Many feel that TSTT, as a majority state-owned firm, should be doing more to promote the local music industry and its performers, rather than importing superstars from abroad. As it happens, TSTT's Bmobile brand has been associated with many carnival events in recent years, in its continuing effort to fight off competition from rival mobile phone provider Digicel. But this year, it has cancelled its popular Soca in B-Square concerts, which used to take place in the run-up to carnival itself. TSTT officials say this is because Trinidad's biggest soca star, Machel Montano, was unavailable to perform, but other artists are unconvinced. "[TSTT] blanked the local culture and pushed the foreign," said Ken Marlon Charles, better known by his stage name of KMC. 'Local appreciation' The dispute took a new turn when Digicel said it had also been approached to sponsor a Beyonce concert, but had turned it down because it wanted to promote local culture instead. Digicel's communications manager, Penny Gomez, told the Trinidad Guardian that the firm had been asked to pay $1.75m for Beyonce's appearance fee, while the entire cost of the concert would have been nearly three times as much. "We have an appreciation for what is local, so we have not sought to go overseas," she said, adding that Digicel did not have "a limitless public purse from which to draw". Digicel store in Anguilla Digicel now operates in 26 countries in the Americas Digicel, owned by Irish businessman Denis O'Brien, has been operating in the Caribbean since 2001, when it began to erode what had been a virtual monopoly for Cable & Wireless and its partners in the region. Its entry into the Trinidad and Tobago market in 2006 was particularly fraught, with TSTT and Bmobile fighting hard to minimise the newcomer's impact. TSTT's response to Digicel's latest comments shows that there is still plenty of bad blood between the two firms. "We don't have Digicel's limitations of being unable to support an international concert while at the same time lending support to local culture," said TSTT spokesman Graham Suite. In view of the controversy, TSTT's board of directors has reviewed the company's plan to host the Beyonce concert and proclaimed it a "sound business decision". But Trinis are currently suspicious of any event that might prove to be a drain on state funds, since 2009 saw Prime Minister Patrick Manning's administration host two costly international summits that failed to bring much benefit to the local economy. If ticket sales are not as strong as TSTT hopes, there could be an embarrassing financial shortfall - with the taxpayer left to pick up the bill. http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/159 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:31:55 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/159 Baby girl for Destra Garcia Soca siren Destra Garcia gave birth to a bouncing baby girl yesterday afternoon, one day earlier than the expected due date.Father, Brian Morris, said the baby whose name is Xaiya, weighs 6lbs 15ozs and both mother and baby were doing well.The new mother explained that the name Xaiya was their alternative to the name Isiah. 'I wanted an unusual first name like mine and we searched around a lot,' Garcia explained.In a recent interview, the soca star, known for her hits like 'Trimble It', 'Sassiness', 'Bonnie and Clyde', 'I Dare You', Obsessive Winers' and 'Carnival' described herself as being on 'standby' with her baby bag in the car. The baby room was ready, she had said, and decorated in pink.Garcia said the labour had been long but she was 'happy, though very tired'.'It was everything I thought it would be. Now I have to learn how to be a good mum. She is so innocent. Right now she is just sleeping a lot.'When told there were already postings of the birth on Twitter and other sites, Garcia expressed surprise, but noted that news of the birth had been reported on some radio stations yesterday.  Written By: Deborah John Features Editor Trinidad & Tobago Express  http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/158 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 17:14:25 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/158 Fears for Haiti after devastating earthquake Like many of you, I was devastated to hear the recent news on Haiti being hit with a major earthquake on Tuesday. The earthquake struck about 10 miles south west of Port au Prince, which was then followed by two very strong after shocks. News is continually coming in about the aftermath of this catastrophic disaster and how Haiti has now been left in ruins. The earthquake has caused devastation on major proportions. The President of Haiti, Rene Preval has said he fears thousands of people are dead, following the earthquake that has devastated the country’s capital. The earthquake is the worst to have hit Haiti in two hundred years. He went on to describe the capital as “unimaginable’ he said, “Parliament has collapsed, the tax office has collapsed, schools have collapsed, hospitals have collapsed. The airport in Port-au-Prince is operational despite the collapse of the control tower, hopefully allowing aid to start arriving soon.   Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere and has suffered a number of recent disasters, including four hurricanes and storms in 2008 that killed hundreds.   With communications destroyed by the earthquake, it is not yet possible to confirm the extent of the destruction, although there were reports on today that many bodies are being piled in the streets. Native-born singer Wyclef Jean has established Yele Haiti a movement that is helping to bring hope back to Haiti. Projects are designed to make a difference in the fields of education, health, environment and community development. The power and reach of music, sports and the media is used to increase the impact of these projects. YELE HAITI EARTHQUAKE FUND has been set up now to provide 100% of funds raised goes to the relief operation.   Please visit http://yele.org/ and donate now.   UK residents / taxpayers can make Gift Aid donations with the Disasters Emergency Committee, please visit http://www.dec.org.uk/   Your money will help with relief efforts. They need our help... please help if you can.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/157 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 23:44:01 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/157 Skinny Fabulous Debut Album Coming Soon For the all the Tempo readers out there reading my articles you would know that 2009 was a good year for Skinny Fabulous. During 2009 Skinny Fabulous was able to maintain his Vincy Soca Monach Title, which lead onto him performing across the Caribbean and into North America whilst still studying as a final year student at university. So Skinny Fabulous has been very busy indeed and somehow even managed to find time to make preparations for the release of his debut album due out early part of this year. Skinny Fabulous highly anticipated album will be featuring his recent collaborations with Machel Montano ‘Fetting On’ as well as singles produced with Trinidadian hit maker Patrice Roberts and infamous Jamaican Dancehall artist Mavado. His album will also see some older music including his hit singles that were released back in 2008 and 2009, which he also won Vincy Soca Monarch with the following singles ‘Head Bad’ and De Beast Leh Go’. The album will also include the latest track ‘Drunk and Disorderly’ (Head Nice) which features on the Mad Frog Riddim.   Skinny Fabulous has literally also just completed the video shoot for his latest single ‘De Beast Leh go’, which topped several charts across the Caribbean, this is also something to look out for in the very near future.   Album release date currently unknown.  Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/156 Sat, 09 Jan 2010 19:13:14 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/156 Destra Garcia Due This Month This year Carnival Destra is due to give birth, she is currently taking things slowly instead of her usual hectic rehearsals that would normally be taking place now for the upcoming 2010 Carnival season. Compared to last year, Destra is now looking at a very different Carnival season with a new baby girl due on the 15th January.   “I’ll be there in spirit” was the message Destra had for all her fans in the approach of Carnival 2010 season. She was also quoted as saying “I’ve never been so happy in my life. I’m also scared and excited, but I can’t stop smiling and for the first time I’m speechless.’ Destra is currently on standby with her baby bag in the car, she also said the baby room is ready and she has decorated it pink. Destra said she also feels very humbled and uplifted by promoters and the fans that have said they will miss her in the Carnival season. Even more heartening, was the fact a tribute song was recorded in honour by the artiste Fernanda titled ’Destra’s Baby’.   ’By the time Carnival rolls around in February I expect to be fully taken up with the baby, but I’ll be there in spirit because I am part of Carnival, and yes I will feel a pang when I see the fetes on television or the photos on the papers but this is precious bonding time and it’s all about what is best for the child. It won’t make sense to rush back on stage especially since I’ve put on about 50 pounds, so the fans won’t see me until I’ve lost the weight,’ she laughed.   Destra has not left fans disappointed this carnival She has released music for Carnival 2010. She wrote the lyrics for two pan songs, which will be performed for Panorama by Courts Laventille Sounds Specialists - ‘Surrender’, and ’Rewind’ for NLCB Fonclaire - respectively. These are collaborations with the music of Junior ’Ibo’ Joseph and arrangement by Mark Loquan and Ken ’Professor’ Philmore. Destra’s contribution for 2010 is ’Fireworks’ which was released back in November 2009.  Written By: Nadia Auckburally     http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/155 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 22:35:12 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/155 Nadia Batson & Kes Collaborate for 2010 Trinidad & Tobago Soca sensation, Nadia Batson has teamed up with frontline vocalist for Kes the Band, Kees Dieffenthaller. This will be the second time the duo have collaborated, the first time round back in 2007 the pair got together to create the smash hit “My Land”. The song won them a second place at the Soca Monarch Competition.   Since 2007, both artists have had major success on their own and now the pair are ready for carnival 2010. Releasing their soon to be hit single “Heaven” The track is energetic and fun. It is a carnival anthem sure to send Carnival lovers wild in the fetes and on the road. Kes the Band featuring Nadia Batson will be performing at Major events for the Carnival season and partygoers can be assured that they are in for some amazing performances from this energetic collaboration.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally     http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/154 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 14:27:32 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/154 Nikisha Reyes- Pile: New Talent For 2010. Nikisha Reyes-Pile is only 21 years old, born in Trinidad into a musical family it was inevitable that she too would find her love for music. Nikisha began singing at the young age of five, she then went onto writing her first Calypso song at the age of eleven, entering the song into a contest and gaining a respectable 3rd place at her very first competition. Nikesha then moved to the UK at the age of 13, where she continued to pursue her love of music. She was encouraged by her school to broaden her musical gift to embrace all genres of music, It's at that point Nikisha began training in classical music techniques to expand her vocal range and repertoire. In 2002 and 2003, Nikisha was accepted into the Hackney Empire’s Artist Development Program, where she honed her skills writing original songs. In 2004, and within a singing group with her friends, she entered the UK Unsigned competition. Their song was an original blend of UK Garage, Hip Hop, Soca and Reggae, and earned them the First Place trophy for the schools category. More recently, Nikisha entered the Project Talent UK competition, and made it to the final 12 out of 10,000 talented applicants. In June 2009, Nikisha met Jah Mirikle. A UK reggae artist whom has an interest in a Soca collaboration. Nikisha then went onto recording “Roll My Bumpa” with Jah Mirkle. Nikisha then went onto record “One Dance” produced by SocaChild. This has launched her career so far where she has performed the hit release at various functions including various Awards Shows, events and fetes. She has also been nominated for several Soca Awards. Nikisha is now concentrating on working with the likes of SocaChild, Scrappy, Jah Mirikle and TriniBoi Joocie, to produce some new material for Carnival 2010.  Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/153 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:22:12 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/153 Skinny Fabulous Collaborates with Machel Montano St Vincent up and coming Soca star Skinny Fabulous has just teamed up with legendary Machel Montano to produce a new song called 'Feting On' This is the first time the pair have collaborated, Skinny Fabulous was quoted saying he is more excited about the song itself rather than the collaboration with Machel Montano, but he anticipates that this song will be a hit at Carnival in 2010. The single is due to be release December 16th 2009. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/152 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:21:53 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/152 Buju Banton arrested on drug charges Grammy-nominated reggae star BUJU BANTON has been arrested on drug charges.The Jamaican dancehall singer, real name Mark Anthony Myrie, was held in Florida on Thursday 10th December 2009 on a charge of conspiracy to possess, with intent to distribute, more than five kilograms (11 pounds) of cocaine.The star is currently being detained in a Miami, Florida prison, and if convicted could face up to 20 years behind bars.The arrest comes just weeks after Buju Banton received his first Grammy Award nomination for his album Rasta Got Soul. The singer has previously courted controversy with his violently homophobic lyrics, which have long infuriated gay rights groups. http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/151 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:03:39 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/151 Reunion for Wyclef and Lauren Hill? Former Fugees members, Wyclef Jean and Lauryn Hill are due to perform in New Zealand in the New Year. It has been confirmed that they have both been booked to perform at the Raggamuffin Music Festival on January 23rd 2010. Although they have both been booked to perform this does not mean Fugees will be performing as a band, instead they will be performing separately.   The Haitian Grammy award winner has been officially booked to perform at the Ragamuffin Music Festival, in Rotorua in New Zealand. This will be the first time in a number of years since the pair has been on the same line up.     The Ragamuffin Festival will be Lauryn Hill’s first performance since she cancelled her tour in June 2009. It was reported this was due to health issues.   Even though The Fugees released two albums, their second album ‘The Score’ sold over 20 million copies worldwide, and the follow-up has been highly anticipated.   However Wyclef Jean is hopeful that one day Fugees will reunite to record new material, but for the time being the door has been left open due to health issues with Lauryn Hill who suffers from bipolar.   Wyclef filled in for Lauryn on a number of her cancelled dates, including performances at the Stockholm Jazz Festival and The Montreux Jazz Festival.   The Festival will also feature some of Reggae’s all-star line-up including the likes of Shaggy, Julian Marley, Sly & Robbie, and Sean Kingston, among others.   The Raggamuffin Festival will be happening on Saturday January 23 at Rotorua International Stadium.     Written By: Nadia Auckburally         http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/150 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:00:52 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/150 Controversial Reggae Singer Gets Grammy Nomination Through out the years Buju Banton has been criticized for his homophobic lyrics and this year gay activists have targeted his concerts in order to prevent him from performing. But Jamaican reggae singer over came all the controversy to win himself a 2009 Grammy nomination.   Nominations for the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards were announced by The Recording Academy where Buju Banton won himself a Grammy Nomination in the Best Reggae Album category with his Rasta Got Soul album, which is on his Gargamel Music, Inc. label.   This will be Buju’s fourth nomination so far in his career. Also making the reggae nomination list this year is singer, Gregory Issacs for his `Brand New Me` album as well as Sean Paul for `Imperial Blaze,` Stephen Marley for `Mind Control — Acoustic` and Julian Marley for `Awake.`     Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/149 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:37:41 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/149 Machel Montano new release - Ramajay Machel Montano who is well known for his singing and performing has created another attention grabbing song ‘Ramajay’ this time its not a jump and wave anthem but a feel good slow wine tune. This song has not been created just for Carnival; it will work in and out of Carnival and with a US Producer already showing interest a remix is already in the pipeline,  Machel is reportedly collaborating with many other artists and soon to be released collaboration with Dancehall Sensation Serani called ‘Hot Like Pepper’     Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/148 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:34:58 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/148 Eddy Grant to Support UB40 at Echo Arena, Liverpool 61 year old, Eddie Grant will be supporting UB40 for a one off date at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. Grant was born in Guyana but was raised in London. He first found fame in the late 1960s with chart topping group ‘The Equals’ He then went on to pursue a solo career achieving worldwide hits in the 1980s with songs such as Electric Avenue and I Don’t Wanna Dance.  Eddie Grant left the UK in 1981, taking his children with him to be educated in the Caribbean.  He will now return to the UK to support UB40. EDDY GRANT supporting UB40 at the Echo Arena, Liverpool, on December 6.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/147 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:30:53 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/147 Sean Paul Featuring On Jay Sean Next Single Release London born, Jay Sean made history when his single “Down” became the first song by a British Urban Artist to top the charts in American. The single not only went to Number 1, it also went double Platinum in America.   Jay Sean’s achievements have been even more impressive considering he did this as an independent artist under his own record label, Jayded Records. However earlier this year, Jay Sean signed to Cash Money Records in America and that is where he started to work on his new album.   With his new Album ‘All or Nothing’ due for release worldwide on November 30th, the second single to be released from his upcoming album features collaborations from Dance Hall artist Sean Paul and Hip Hop rapper Lil' John, both are featured on the new US single 'Do You Remember?'   The track already looks like it’s going to be a hit for Jay Sean after debuting in the US iTunes top 15 after one day of being released. Jay Sean recently said that his second single featuring Sean Paul is largely due to their meeting last month on the 2009 MTV Video Music Award ceremony.   "On the red carpet, doing an interview," he recalled. "Sean Paul is over there and he goes, 'Yo! Yeah man, Jay Sean!' And I said, 'Hi Sean ... Paul.' This was the first time I'd ever met him. And he just said, 'Me and you need to work together.' Two days later I called him and sent him the track, and sent it back to me the same day — and he was in Jamaica."   Even though Jay Sean has disappeared overseas he has not forgotten his UK fans - London grime crew, Boy Better Know feature on 'Stay' and former Sugababe Keisha Buchannan duets on 'Far Away.' The album also includes collaborations with Chipmunk and Craig David.   Jay Sean will be back in the UK in November when he performs at 1Xtra's live event in Sheffield on 28th November alongside the likes of Dizzee Rascal, Chipmunk and Chase and Status.   Jay Sean releases his new album 'All Or Nothing' on November 30th through Jayded/Cash Money Records.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/146 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:25:14 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/146 Mr Vegas featured in Grand Theft Auto Mr Vegas hit song “Mus Come A Road” has been featured on the soundtrack of the best-selling game Grand Theft Auto IV. The Grand Theft Auto IV release has to date sold over 70 million copies worldwide scoring Vegas a major international achievement. If you are not familiar with Grand Theft Auto games, the soundtrack features on an in game radio stations. The song appears on the RamJam FM Radio station hosted by legendary UK DJ David Rodigan (Kiss FM).  These radio stations can be listened to when driving various vehicles in the game, or at the start of the menu. However RamJam FM can only be listened to in Episodes from Liberty City. “Mus Come a Road” has also featured on The Strictly The Best VP Compilation of 2008, and it peaked at #5 on the Black Chart in the UK.  In light of this amazing accomplishment Mr Vegas said  “This is a good achievement, there are millions of artistes worldwide and they chose me as one of the reggae artistes. Mi play Grand Theft Auto II, so I am familiar with the game, and mi ah look forward to playing the game and hearing my song on the radio station."   Written By: Nadia Auckburally   http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/145 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:08:46 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/145 One last production from Sheldon Benjamin Sheldon “$hel $hok” Benjamin, who sadly passed away this June 09, left his 2k10 contributions behind.  Curtis “General” Grant, the last male artist to be produced by Mr. $hok is on top of his game for 2k10 with a bumper groovy Soca called “To the World”, exactly where both $hok and Grant vowed to take the music from the beginning of their union in the early 90’s under the Keskidee Karavan headed by veteran, Robert Amar.   Curtis “General” Grant has already collaborated with Farmer Nappy from the HD Camp and will be performing alongside Farmer Nappy for 2k10 with “Looking to Wine”.  Another release called “Drink” on Daryl Braxton’s  “Stush Riddim” along with “Waistline Season” on Andy Joseph’s riddim are a few more of General Grant’s releases to come.   Writer: Curtis “General” Grant http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/144 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:15:18 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/144 Barbadian Superstar Rihanna to appear on X Factor Barbadian Superstar, Rihanna will be performing on The X Factor Show this Sunday, November 29th. Rihanna will be singing her new single ‘Russian Roulette’ Live from her upcoming album ‘Rated R’ on the ITV show; she is also expected to act as a mentor to the remaining contestants. Rihanna still only 21 years old revealed that she was “beyond excited” about her upcoming appearance on X Factor. The Superstar is currently in the UK having performed exclusively on Monday night  at the Brixton Academy. The Media event was organised courtesy of her coporate sponsers Mobile Phone  giants Nokia rather than a proper gig it would seem as  though it decended into something far more than anyone could of expected.  This was Rihanna’s first headline apperance since the notorious ‘Chris Brown’ incident and the gig was also simultaneously streamed worldwide. Two special guest apperances came from Young Jeezy contributing to Rihanna’s new track “Hard” then Jay-Z took to the stage to perform “Run This Town” and “Umbrella”.The 21 year old  has certainly bounced back and rumours has it, she appears to be in love again. MTV reported that she might be in a relationship with a young actor, Tristan Wilds, who is currently starring in the new episodes of Beverly Hills. The alleged relationship was sparked when Rihanna threw a big party recently and Tristian was spotted getting close to the Star.Rihanna has also reported she will be designing a new clothing line which will be due out in 2010. Rated R is released on November 23. Rihanna appears on The X Factor on November 29.Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/143 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:20:22 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/143 Lil’ Kim, Big Diva Antics Disses London Fans Lil’ Kim was in town last weekend after presenting an award at The 2009 MTV Europe Music Awards hosted in Berlin, but it would seem as though things were destined to go wrong from the start. At the award show, the pint-sized Diva was allegedly moaning to MTV officials about her place on the red carpet, fancy not wanting to walk out onto the carpet straight after the Backstreet Boys! Just to enlighten you they sold over 100 million albums worldwide, making them one of the biggest selling artists of all time, and best selling boy band/vocal group to date. So why does Lil’ Kim think she is better than that? When Lil’ Kim finally flew into London, she was already late for her UK commitments apparently blaming delays on “engine trouble!” Now this I do know for a fact, Lil’ Kim was due to make an appearance and perform live at The Den Nightclub in London on Saturday night. I went down to the venue and waited and waited, and in the end left feeling very disappointed - I have been a fan of hers since 1995 and had been quite excited about seeing her. The Lil’ Kim no show was rumoured to have been due to a “nosebleed.” Fortunately the promoters of the event managed to pull off a wicked night without her. My sources tell me that on her arrival to London, Lil’ Kim was given an abundance of designer clothes and shoes to get papped in, but it would seem that she never made it out of her hotel room. To make matters even worse, because Lil’ Kim did not fulfil her obligations she was supposedly told by her promoters that she would have to foot her own hotel bill. This did not go down well with the Big Diva, who allegedly trashed her suite at The Millennium Mayfair before sneaking out without paying for a thing. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/142 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:49:05 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/142 Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe 2010 - La Toya Woods La Toya Woods will be representing Trinidad & Tobago at the 59th Annual Miss Universe Pageant in summer 2010.Miss Woods is 24 years old and a Psychology student in Trinidad & Tobago. The newly crowned beauty received her crown at the finals Sunday night at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad Hotel in Port of Spain.Trinidad and Tobago did not participate in the 2009 Miss Universe competition in Bahamas this year due to lack of financial support.But Miss Woods seems determined to make it up at next years pageant and is confident that she will do a good job at promoting Trinidad and Tobago.Unfortunately due to controversy surrounding Anya Ayong-Chee who represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 2008 Miss Universe pageant, she was not at the ceremony to hand over the crown. There has been a lot of interest surrounding Miss Chee as a private video was leaked maybe causing her to be a little embarrassed. Nevertheless Miss Woods was also awarded for 'Model of the year' and she is due to receive just under a nice sum of $150,00 in sponsored prizes for winning the competition. Written By: Nadia Auckburally     http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/141 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:02:29 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/141 Disgraced Miss England 2009 Gives Up Crown As some of you know a couple of months ago I reported that Rachel Christie won the title of Miss England beating several hopefuls to be crowned the first Black Miss England, and as you are aware this was a big deal and it was very encouraging to see a woman of colour who would have gone onto represent England in the Miss World finals. The Miss World contest will be taking place in South Africa in December 2009, and hopefuls are all due to fly out next week. With such a prestigious event and a significant first it’s very disappointing to learn that Rachel Christie has since withdrawn from the Miss World Competition and given up her Miss England crown due to an alleged incident that took place earlier in the week.  Miss Christie allegedly became involved in a dispute with another beauty queen at a  porn themed costume party. Sara Beverley Jones (Miss Manchester) who was also attending the party at the trendy Mansion Nightclub in Manchester. Miss Jones was allegedly punched in the face several times by Miss Christie after arguing over a man named David McIntosh who Miss Christie is apparently dating. David McIntosh is a known Gladiator appearing in the Sky1 series as Tornado. It would appear that things became heated when Miss Jones apparently showed Miss Christie some sexy text messages that was allegedly sent to her by Mr McIntosh, she claimed that the messages were sent recently, sending Miss Christie into a rage ultimately landing Miss Jones a few punches.  According to reports Miss Jones was treated in the hospital for superficial facial injuries, whilst Miss Christie was arrested on suspicion of assault and has now been bailed until January 2010. The situation has ultimately made Miss Christie give up her title. On the Miss England website it is reported that Rachel will now concentrate on clearing her name and focus on training for the 2012 Olympics until this case is resolved. The new Miss England has been announced as Katrina Hodge, she was the 1st runner up in the competition and is a Lance Corporal soldier in the British Army.    Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/140 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:27:52 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/140 Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe 2008, Anya Ayoung-Chee Sex Tape Leaked Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe 2008, Anya Ayoung-Chee has become the latest victim of a personal sex tape being released publicly. I would like to think that the video was not made for public scrutiny but unfortunately someone has made it public and so far it’s spread like wildfire.   Is it so far fetched to believe that this was done deliberately? Forgive me for presuming that this all appears to be a publicity stunt, with the fast approaching Miss World competition being hosted next month and the infamous videos by the likes of Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton and Pamela Anderson, which ultimately did no harm to their careers!   But let's not forget Anya Ayoung-Chee, is a talented young fashion designer living in Trinidad. In 2008 she launched the highly successful clothing line PILAR, named after her younger brother who passed away in a tragic car accident. She is also the Creative Director of Fuse The Agency, which is the number one talent agency in Trinidad and Tobago.     Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/139 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:44:55 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/139 BFM International Film Festival 2009 The bfm International Film Festival has announced the line-up for its 2009 program. The festival - which runs from runs from 6-10th November is the UK's premier film festival dedicated to celebrating black world cinema. Funded by ACP Films, Film London and the UK Film Council, the bfm International Film Festival, will provide audiences with abundant opportunities to view a diverse range of some of the most innovative films of either black content or directed and written by black filmmakers.The five day festival will present over 60 films - dramatic and feature length documentaries - which will be screened across four venues in London. The program is divided into five distinct categories; Made in UK, Caribbean Tales, Contemporary, Africa Calling and Political Thought, and includes films from; the UK, USA, South Africa, Ethiopia, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Tanzania, Congo, Canada and Senegal.The festival opens on the 6th November with the European premiere of Good Hair (Dir: Jeff Stilson), the award-winning film co-written and produced by Chris Rock. Something is Killing Tate; (Dir: Leon Lozano); Good Day to be Black and Sexy (Dir: Dennis Dortch) and The Story of Lovers Rock; (Dir: Menelik Shabazz); are just a few of the acclaimed films which will also be showcased. Other festival highlights include; the opportunity to discuss and debate an array of issues addressed in the films in a selection of post-screening Q&A's with filmmakers, industry seminars and workshops facilitated by the UK Film Council Channel 4 and Skillset, DJ evenings and the Shorts Awards on closing night."This year will see the strongest bfm International Film Festival program to date,"says Nadia Denton, festival director."The line-up is daring, engaging and inclusive and covers a range of subjects. In addition to the ACP Films funded Caribbean strand - which will see all the participating Trinidadian and Jamaican filmmakers in attendance - the festival will also feature world and European premieres of award-winning films. 50% of the program represents films made in the UK, and we are thrilled to be offering a US based scholarship on behalf of the Legacy Media Institute. The 11th bfm International film festival has something for everyone".For all you lovers of soca/pan we have 3 showings  Soca Power in Trinidad and Tobago + Q&AMonday 9thNov / 19.00 / Rich Mix Cinema 2 A dazzling documentary that follows four of soca's most influential localtalents throughout one Carnival season, moving from behind the scenes at largeconcerts to the heat and heart of Carnival. The film's main characters areMachel Montano, considered the most powerful man in soca; Bunji Garlin, revered,even feared, for his biting lyrics and bold, outspoken personality; Fay-AnnLyons, soca royalty and one of the genre's brightest young stars; and IsaacBlackman, son of soca 's creator Ras Shorty I. Through the interwoven portraitsof these four stars, Soca Poweris an energetic immersion into the world of soca.[Dir: Claude Santiago - Trinidad & Tobago 2008 - 60min - European Premiere] Mas Man + Q&ASaturday 7th Nov / 12.00 / Rich Mix Cinema 2 A sparkling documentary that examines the life of Trinidadian Carnival "Masman"Peter Minshall, whose lifelong ambition was to prove that Mas (the Carnivalstage) can be high art. Minshall began revisiting carnival traditions in the1970s in Trinidad with the iconic costume "From the Land of the Hummingbird". Hethen went on to dazzle the crowds at the London's Notting Hill Carnival with hisextravagant costume bands. Minshall's work transcended Carnival and he was askedto work on high profile performance projects such as the opening ceremonies ofthe Olympic Games in 1992, 1996 and 2002.[Dir: Dalton Narine - Trinidad & Tobago 2009 - 87min European Premiere] + Russ Henderson "The Pan Man" Pan Mantells the story of renowned jazz pianist and steel pan player RussHenderson from his days as a struggling musician in the 1950s to receivingrecognition in the form of an MBE from HRH Prince of Wales for long standingservices to the music industry.[Dir: Mike McKenzie - UK 2009 -15min] If you would like a chance to win yourself  tickets tune in to tempo radio on thursday 5th november between 8pm and midnight For the complete festival program visit: www.bfmmedia.com/festivalPublic booking for tickets to the 2009 bfm International Film Festival will commence on Thursday 8th October. To find out more information about the festival and view trailer clips of some of the films featured, please visit the official website at www.bfmmedia.com/festival http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/138 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:10:05 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/138 Made in Jamaica Multi-award winning director Jerome Laperrousaz's powerful Made in Jamaica takes us deep into the heart of Jamaican culture employing the characters and talent of then and now to explain the history of reggae and why the genre is so embroiled in politics and gun culture. Made in Jamaica uses both choreographed performances and interview footage to tell the story of the people behind the music and to explain why Jamaican music has become so essential worldwide. Some of the interviews in Made in Jamaica are truly excellent. Reggae cornerstone artists such as Toots, Gregory Isaacs and Bunny Wailer walk us through the Jamaica that shaped their lives and careers while offering their own opinions on the current situations. We are also treated to live performances, jamming sessions and rehearsals from these artists show casing why these guys were so successful in the first place. On the flip side we get informative and frank interviews with Elephant Man, Bounty Killer, Lady Saw and Joseph Current who explain the Dancehall lifestyle and its motives. The fact that the movie isn't narrated helps to drop the viewer into the world the subjects live in. The film makers have also decided to subtitle the whole thing, this works well firstly because it adds clarity to some of the interviews and secondly we get an unparalleled insight into the lyrics of modern Dancehall via the subtitles. What we learn in Made in Jamaica isn't all sweetness and light. Brought to the Caribbean from Africa by the Spanish to work on the cotton plantations then later ruled by the English, we are keenly informed real Jamaican history only started in 1962 with the country reaching its independence. Reggae music is the music of slaves and its roots can be traced to the poorest parts of the island. The artists explain, over the years, Reggae music has been both their voice and comforter. There is little film-making to assess here. Although the performances and scenes of day to day living are all shot beautifully it is in the editing suit that Laperrousaz has really crafted his piece. There is little flab on Made in Jamaica and although I have been a fan of Jamaican music for many years I left this movie with a far greater knowledge and understanding of this endlessly fascinating art form. Review by Contactmusic  http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/137 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:49:09 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/137 Ragamuffin Reggae Festival Superstar, Wyclef Jean will headline the third Ragamuffin Reggae Festival which takes place in New Zealand and Australia in January 2010.Wyclef Jean will headlining the festival's five shows in the New Zealand capital, Auckland, as well as dates in the Australian cities of Perth, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.Sly and Robbie, Julian Marley, Shaggy and pop rapper Sean Kingston are also in the lineup and Shaggy will be making his second appearance on the show.The Ragamuffin Festival was first held in 2008 by a group of reggae enthusiasts. British supergroup UB40, The Wailers and American neo-soul group Arrested Development headlined the inaugural event.Ziggy Marley, Eddy Grant, former UB40 lead singer Ali Campbell and Inner Circle were among the performers on the event. The New Zealand leg reportedly drew 25,000 fans.The Antipodes may be the last frontier for reggae to conquer. Bob Marley was at the peak of his fame when he toured Australia and New Zealand in 1979 but the location of those countries has always proved an economic challenge for promoters.Roots-reggae legends Peter Tosh and Jimmy Cliff have performed in both countries whereas dancehall superstar Sean Paul has done shows in Australia, based on the impact of his platinum-selling albums, Dutty Rock and The Trinity.Australian bands have had some success with reggae. Men At Work hit it big in 1982 with Down Under, which topped Billboard magazine's pop chart. http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/136 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:49:17 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/136 Dil-E-Nadan tours Europe Chutney/Soca band Dil-E-Nadan has just picked up an award for Best Sound Crossover Band at Miami Carnival. The band performed at major events such as the Miami Day Fete, Soca Fest and the much anticipated Beach Fest alongside Machel Montano and his HD band KMC, Hunter (Lalchan Babwa) Baron, 3Veni, and Bunji Garlin. Dil-E-Nadan played twice a day for six days at 12 venues.They are now heading to Europe performing in Spain then heading onto Holland where they will be doing five shows, including three private functions. Dil-e-Nadan will be releasing a new album, Da Boom for Carnival 2010.His latest hit “Yeh Jeewan Hai,” which has been number one on local frequencies for the past month, is currently topping charts in Canada and New York.  Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/135 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:37:29 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/135 Another threat to Reggae artist over anti-gay lyrics Copenhagen, Denmark music venue demands and threatens to cancel Jamaican reggae artist, Sizzla concert this coming Monday. The venue has threatened to cancel the concert in which Sizzla is scheduled to play because of his anti gay lyrics. Sizzla has been told he needs to change his homophobic views if he wants to play there. Sizzla, whose real name is Miguel Orlando Collins, urges people, through his lyrics, to kill homosexuals. However in 2007, he signed the Reggae Compassionate Act along with other reggae stars. The document states that musicians must not encourage or contribute to homophobia and violent expression in their recorded music or while on-stage. But Sizzla has apparently not abided by the Act and continues to use anti-gay lyrics in his performances. Sizzla must now publicly renounce his anti-gay position or the concert would be cancelled. If the concert is to go ahead and Sizzla is to break Danish law, he can be prosecuted. Homosexuality is forbidden in Jamaica and punishable by up to 10 years in jail. Sizzla said he was ‘a role model’ for young people in Jamaica and stands by his anti-gay stance. He said he only signed the Act so he could continue performing in Europe. ‘No one can stop me from telling people what I believe is right. I just don’t do it officially anymore,’ he said. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/134 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 21:49:01 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/134 Pan Jazz UK PANJAZZ UK Calypso . Steel . Jazz Featuring World Renouned Panist Andy Narell & Legendary Calypsonian Relator on Sunday 8th November 2009 @ Hackney Empire Tickets: £22.50 Stalls and Dress Circle, £18.50 Upper Circle £2 Concession to Sr. Citizens and Students e-tickets at poisonuk.com or Call the hotline on 020 7193 5859 http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/133 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 21:08:21 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/133 Buju Banton removes offending songs from scheduled concert date Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton gained recognition and a hit 21 years ago with a song called “Boom, Bye Bye” which praises the murder of homosexuals and with recent pressure of the Gay community it has now threatened 86 of the planned Banton’s concerts. Banton has been touring locations in the U.S. recently with “Boom, Bye Bye” and other songs. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community activists pushed for the cancellation of Banton`s shows scheduled for various dates across the U.S.  Promoters have been flooded with calls and e-mails from concerned citizens, gay activists insist the singer promotes a culture of violence against gay people and continue to point to his `Boom, Bye Bye` song as proof. Banton has had concerts cancelled in many of the U.S states and the singer insisted in a statement this week “he does not condone violence of any kind and slammed activists for judging his entire musical repertoire by one song.” Buju Banton has finally decided to face his critics, this week he met with members of the gay community. “The three-time Grammy nominee was honest and open enough to relax some nerves, at the very least. He noted that he's permanently stripped "Boom Bye Bye" from his set lists and that he founded Operation Willy, an organization that promotes safe sex to help fight AIDS. That alone showed common ground between the two camps, but the LGBT community members said they are now hopeful that they can work together with Banton to help address issues that affect both the gay and reggae communities.” Reggae music is still under pressure to denounce anti-gay lyrics from artists and the Reggae Compassionate Act was created in 2007 by the Canadian-based Stop Murder Music campaign. Artists would then not perform songs promoting violence — especially toward the gay community. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/132 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:22:06 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/132 Soca not recognised at UMAs The Urban Music Awards are due to take place here in London for the 7th annual awards show in November. As the nominations have now been announced, yet again the Soca Category has been left out. Urban Music Awards claims that they are "The NO. 1 premiere R&B, HipHop, Soul and Dance Music awards ceremony in the world" So why are UMAs recognising all these catergories with the exception to Soca? "The Urban Music Awards was born out of the need to build a worldwide and independent awards ceremony to recognise the achievement of urban based artists, producers, club nights, dj’s , radio stations, record labels and artist that are or were previously unrecognised within their country of origin and are a product of the current Dance/R&B, HipHop, Neo Soul, Jazz, Grime, Garage and D&B music scene." If the UMA board would kindly like to enlighten us as to why there is no Soca category? Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/131 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:18:11 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/131 Brick and Lace gaining international recognition Sister's, Brick and Lace have finally gained international recognition by being nominated for three awards at this years 7th Annual Urban Music Awards. The Urban Music Awards will be held here in London on November 2nd, organised and hosted by 'Media Group' Brick and Lace have been nominated for Best Duo or Group, Most Inspiring Act and Best R & B Act, Brick and Lace has the additional honour of being among those performing for the evening. To vote for them or other nominees on-line at urbanmusicawards.net beginning October 10 through November 2. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/130 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:55:48 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/130 The biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems for 2009 A 17-track album released by ‘Greensleeves’ is the only Reggae album to have in your collection bringing you the biggest Reggae anthems of 2009 with songs from newcomers to more established artists this is a varied compilation that wont leave you disappointed. In general ‘The biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2009’ Album is a good listen for reggae fans. Track Listing 1) Genesis - Lutan Fyah 2) Dem Nah Learn - Queen Ifrica 3) Humbleness - Alborosie 4) No Air - Lukie D and M'Lonie 5) Heaven in Her Eyes - Gappy Ranks 6) MissingYou Right Now - Da'Ville 7) Can't Say I Never Tried - Beres Hammond 8) Automatic (Keeping It Real) - Marcia Griffiths and Busy Signal 9) Alton's Medley - Romain Virgo 10) Acres - Capleton 11) Vibes - Glen Washington 12) Hot A Road - Peetah and Assassin 13) Be Aware - Luciano 14) Nothing Wrong With the World - Junior Kelly 15) No Cigarette - Mr Williamz 16) Gonna Leave You - Ziggi 17) Gwaan Bear - Sizzla Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/129 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:33:37 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/129 Mavado Defends His Lyrics Jamaican dancehall/reggae artist Mavado seems to be still causing controversy with his album “Gangster For Life” which was released back in 2007. The disagreement stems from the view that he promotes negative attitudes through homophobia, and the glamorization of violence and gun crime. This has now prompted several Caribbean Islands and other countries to ban him from performing on their soil. In recent weeks the issue of Mavado performing in Guyana came to light, being that he was already scheduled to perform caused reasons for debate as to whether he should be allowed to perform or not. Mavado’s ban has now since been lifted and he has already performed at Guyana's National Park. Mavado was born and raised in the region of “Cuba” in Jamaica and he defends his lyrics saying there were a response to what he saw around him and the only way they would change was when society changed. Mavado in fact urges his fans not to act out what he sang because he himself was not going out there and doing anyone anything. He was only doing music. Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/128 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:32:01 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/128 Black History Month 2009 In the United Kingdom, Black History Month is celebrated throughout the month of October.  The origins of Black History Month goes back to 1926, when Carter G Woodson; editor of Negro History established African Caribbean celebrations in America during the month of February each year. Here in the UK, Akyaaba Addai Sebbo who worked for the Greater London Council established the event back in 1987. He is viewed as the person who founded Black History Month here in Britain. During the month of October the aim has always been to promote the people of African and Caribbean origin into knowledge of Black history and experience, circulate information on positive Black contributions to British Society, and heighten the confidence and awareness of Black people in their cultural heritage. Fundamentally it’s a month were we should educate others and ourselves about the forgotten heroes and stories that we never got taught at school. Events in London throughout October 2009:   Monday 5th October 2009- Before The Slave Trade Presentation at the African Caribbean Library, Clapham Tuesday 6th October 2009- The Civilisation of the Moors in Africa and Spain at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Thursday 8th October 2009- Ancient Egypt and the Origin of Science and Technology at the Marcus Garvey Library, Tottenham Friday 9th October 2009- The Black presence in Britain before 1948 at Stanley Hall, Norwood Monday 12th October 2009- The Amazing History of Black People in Britain at the PCS Headquarters, Clapham Tuesday 13th October 2009- The Black presence in Britain in Britain before 1948 at Ealing Central Library, Ealing Tuesday 13th October 2009- ‘Marcus Garvey, Walter Rodney and Rastafari’ at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Thursday 15th October 2009- Sub Saharan African and Black American contributions to Science and Technology at the Marcus Garvey Library, Tottenham Friday 16th October 2009- Queens and Great women=2 0of Ancient and Mediaeval Africa at the African Caribbean Library, Clapham Monday 19th October 2009- The Black presence in Britain in Britain before 1948 at the Enfield Homes, Edmonton Tuesday 20th October 2009- The Haitian Revolution at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Tuesday 20th October 2009- Who were the Ancient Egyptians? at Ealing Central Library, Ealing Wednesday 21st October 2009- ‘Slavery is not our history!’ at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Thursday 22nd October 2009- Magnificent traditions of Ancient African arts and crafts at the Marcus Garvey Library, Tottenham Friday 23rd October 2009- The Legacy of Cheikh Anta Diop and the dismal state of current Afrocentric scholarship at the African Caribbean Library, Clapham Monday 26th October 2009- The Roots of Black Music at the Croydon Clocktower, Croydon Tuesday 27th October 2009- Film Screening- ‘John Henrik Clarke: A Great and Mighty Walk’ at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Wednesday 28th October 2009 - New National Curriculum and the Possibilities for Real Black History in Secondary Schools at the PCS Learning Centre, Victoria Thursday 29th October 2009- The Roots of Black Music at the Marcus Garvey Library, Tottenham Friday 30th October 2009- 'Who in the Black Community is to blame for Youth Crime?' at City Hall, Westminster Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/127 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 16:58:07 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/127 Indian Arrival Day Indian Arrival Day is celebrated on various days around the world, the day was established to commemorate the arrival of people from the Indian subcontinent to that nation. It originally originates from Trinidad and Tobago and has since spread to many nations. Indian Arrival Day is a public holiday celebrated on May 30th in Trinidad and Tobago each year. The celebration began to remember the arrival of the first Indian labourers from India to Trinidad in May 1845 on the ship Fatel Razack. While this momentous event has been celebrated among the East Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago for many years, it was only in 1994 that it was made an official public holiday. It was called Arrival Day and in 1995 it was re-named Indian Arrival Day.   Today the event is celebrated by staging a re-enactment of the arrival of the Fatel Razack at various beaches, along with music and dance ceremonies. Members of the community with outstanding contribution to society are also honoured at this event. In Guyana the holiday is celebrated on May 5th commemorating the first arrival of servants from India to the country on May 5th 1838. On this day the workers arrived to work in sugar plantations. Their descendants today make up 44% of Guyana’s population. In Mauritius the holiday is celebrated on November 2nd to commemorate the labourers brought to the island. In Guadeloupe and Martinique the commemoration of 150 years of Indian presence is celebrated officially by Indians and non-Indians. In Suriname, Indian arrival Day is celebrated on June 5th.   Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/126 Sat, 03 Oct 2009 16:30:21 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/126 Levi Roots new single ‘So out of my mind’ Levi’s new single ‘So out of my mind’ is due to be released as a digital download on October 5th through Sound Box Media. This will be Levi’s first single release from his new Reggae album entitled ‘Red Hot’ which is also due for release on October 19th 2009. ‘So out of my mind’ is an upbeat commercial reggae track which tells the story of Levi Roots having his heart captured and is blind to the lies this particular person tells. Levi has taken a classic reggae theme and added an upbeat tempo. In 2007 Levi recorded a track called ‘Red Hot’ for producers Mafia and Fluxy, which featured on their compilation ‘Roots and Volume’. This inspired Levi to get back into the studio and record his own album by the same name. The album ‘Red Hot’ aims to have more cutting edge roots music, remixes and re-releases. It would seem as thought Levi finds inspiration from his laid back Jamaican persona, his love of music and food. Forthcoming events: Single ‘So out of my mind’ released 5th October 2009 19th October 2009 Album Launch Party, Bush Hall London.  Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/125 Sat, 03 Oct 2009 14:08:12 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/125 Trinidad & Tobago Carnival Trinidad and Tobago are the "Islands of Carnival" and to tell me any other place in the world can rival this, I'd have to say you're wrong. OK, I'm biased, but having experienced Carnival in Trinidad, I'll definitely be heading back for years to come. Carnival is always celebrated two days before Ash Wednesday in the season of Lent. I suggest that you go at least a week before Carnival as there is so much to do in the run up to the event. To plan for next year, Carnival in 2010 falls on the 15th and 16th of February. Whether you're going to be a spectator, or you're going to participate, make you sure book your flights and accommodation early. Carnival is big business in Trinidad - as soon as they are done with Carnival for the year, they're already preparing for the next one.At the event, many participants wear elaborate costumes, often decorated with feathers and sequins. Carnival ‘bands' are organised groups made up of participants who pay to wear the costumes. The costumed participants dance through the streets to the sounds of a steel band, a soca band or a DJ - this is called ‘playing mas'. If you want to participate, you'll need to register with a band to get one of their costumes to wear. Details of the bands come out towards the end of July. See the Trindad & Tobago website for all band details - but hurry, it gets sold out pretty quickly.Weeks before Carnival, you'll find that loads of ‘fetes' have been organised. Fetes are basically big parties in Trinidad, at which you'll find the biggest Soca artists of the year performing their songs live. This is a must as you'll get to know all the current songs and you'll be dancing and singing away before you know it! So now that you've got up to speed with the music, head down to a ‘pan yard' where you can hear steel pans being played. Many groups of performers practice weeks in advance on these drums in order to compete to win Panorama - the annual competition for steel pan bands. This is very competitive and an honour to win.You can't go to Trinidad without sampling ‘Shark n Bake' and ‘Doubles' two of the most traditional dishes on the island. They can be found all over but are best eaten at Maracas Bay, to the north of the island. An old time favourite beach, here you'll find many people limin' - meaning "the art of doing nothing"! This is what Trinidadians know how to do best, simply sit back, relax and enjoy. Written By: Nadia Auckburally     http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/124 Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:37:20 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/124 No Awards For Soca At MOBO's 2009 The MOBO Awards have come around once again and this time it will be taking place in Glasgow and will be held at the SECC on Wednesday 30th September 2009. This year's show will see some of the world's biggest stars descend on the Scottish city.The Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards was established in 1995 by Kanya King MBE and Andy Ruffell are held annually in the United Kingdom to recognise artists of any race or nationality performing black music.The list of nominations includes awards for the Best African Act, Best Jazz Act, Best Gospel Act and Best Reggae Act. But why is there still no award for Best Soca Act at the MOBO's? Soca is black music and more importantly it's a genre of music that celebrates, represents and unites the islands of the Caribbean.The MOBO Awards 2009 will be shown live on BBC3 at 9.30pm.Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/123 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:21:41 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/123 25 Years of Miami Carnival 2009 The 25th annual Miami carnival is due to take place on Sunday the 11th October 2009. Miami carnival has been an Annual event since 1984, and this year Miami is set to celebrate 25 years in the making. Within two years of Carnival starting it has grown from a small neighbourhood festival to an international event. To date it brings in live bands and Soca artistes, drawing them in from all over the Caribbean. Miami carnival also known as Caribbean Mardi Gras has become the primary revenue producing festival for South Florida and is the most popular carnival in North America. Junior Carnival Parade is always held the day before the Miami Carnival and can be found at Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami. Ultimately Miami carnival was created to acknowledge the thousands of Caribbean residents Miami.  Miami Carnival 2009 Parade and FestivalSunday, October 11, 2009 @ 9 AM - 11 PMlocation: BICENTENNIAL PARK, Miami25th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Parade starts at 12:00 noon on NE 27th Street at NE 2nd Avenue. Proceeds South on NE 2nd Avenue, East on NE 15th Street, South on Biscayne Boulevard, East on NE 13th Street, South on Bayshore Drive and into Bicentennial Park. Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/122 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:16:12 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/122 Soca News Skinny Fabulous was recently named the new King of Soca in St Vincent and the Grenadines with his hit song Leggo de Beast. He is also currently achieving success in several Caribbean charts with the same single. Skinny Fabulous was also crowned Vincy Soca Monach for the second time in a row at Victoria Park in St Vincent, he beat Fireman Hooper who cane in second and Problem Child who came 3rd. Machel Montano recently launched his new album Heavenly Drum, the album features collaborations with Collie Buddz, Busy Signal, Chinese Laundry, Umi Marcano, and Len Boogsie Sharpe. He gained single success with Wild Antz which won him third place in Road march competition while another track, Magic Drumz, played by the Phase 2 Steel Orchestra, came second in the "Large Bands" category at the Panorama Finals Steel Pan competition at Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. Nadia Batson has something new in store for the ladies, she revealed her new Soca anthem entitled ‘Keep Wining’. Which looks like it is set to keep soca lovers wining in the pre carnival season build up in Trinidad and Tobago. It would appear that Batson is taking soca music to another level taking it from the old to the new with tracks like Caribbean Girl, My Posse, One Island and now, Keep Wining.The international soca award are to be held on Friday 30th October 2009 and this year Turks and Caicos Islands are hosting it. After six successful years in New York, One year in Trinidad and one year in St Kitts. Organisers are promising this years awards to be the biggest yet, the ceremony is to ultimately showcase Soca Music in way that it has never been done before. The red carpet event will draw in soca stars from all over the Caribbean alongside other international acts.  Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/121 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:00:25 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/121 Levi Roots running for Mayor of London! Keith Valentine Graham better known as Levi Roots is a Reggae Musician, Chef and the highly acclaimed Dragon’s Den participant. Back in 2007 he was invited onto the BBC show Dragon’s Den where he famously sang about his Reggae Reggae Sauce and has become to date the most famous applicant. Levi walked away with an investment that he wanted in order to launch the sauce commercially. He gained the support of two of the entrepreneurs on the show and the journey began from there. I quickly learned of Levi Roots like the most of us from his wide spread fame after appearing on Dragon’s Den, but after the show it became apparent that Levi’s success has meant he has become a spokesperson for both Caribbean cuisine as well as an entrepreneurship amongst the black community. So when I walked pass Waterstone’s in Ealing to see that the man himself will be there signing his new booking entitled “Caribbean food made easy” I quickly made a note of the date. I headed into Waterstone’s to buy myself a copy of the brand new book, as I stood waiting to purchase the book I heard an applause as the whole shop greeted Levi as he walked in. So I quickly took up the chance to have a quick chat with Levi Roots whilst he signed my book. Tempo: what will be your next venture after the book launch? Levi Roots: I will be looking to run for Mayor of London! Tempo: I stupidly said really! I was taken back thinking this couldn’t possibly be, but why couldn’t he? Levi Roots: yes I will run for Mayor, and I hope you enjoy the book! So not only is the man an entrepreneur and a much-admired Chef, we could quite possibly find Levi Roots running for the Mayor of London in the very near future. Whether it’s making Caribbean food or running for Mayor, he’s certainly got my vote! Levi has a new BBC2 show Caribbean Food Made Easy on BBC2, with a book of the same name currently out in shops to buy nationwide. The show follows Levi as he travels the UK and Jamaica demonstrating easy ways to cook Caribbean food at home and if you want to catch Levi Roots, he is currently on a book signing tour on the following dates: Monday Sept 14th between 12 and 1pm at Waterstone's in High Wycombe and Costco in Watford between 2 and 3pm Wed Sept 16th at WH Smith in Croydon between 12.20pm and 2pm then at Borders in Brighton between 6 and 6.45pm Thursday Sept 17th between 12 and 1pm at Waterstone in Basingstoke and at Waterstone's in Reading Oracle between 2 and 3pm then at Topping between 7.30pm and 9pm. Friday September 18th at Stanford’s in Bristol between 12 and 1pm, Waterstone's in Cribbs Causeway between 2 and 3pm then at Borders in Cardiff between 6 and 7pm  Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/120 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:59:33 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/120 Soca Music Awards This year will see the 2nd Annual Soca Music Awards on the 27th of September 2009, hosted by Martin Jay of Choice FM. The Soca Music Awards will honour the hard-working producers, writers, arrangers and performers of Soca and calypso. It’s going to be a long-overdue chance for everyone who loves the music to salute its great achievers, from the pioneers to up-and-coming artistes. The Awards will feature a host of celebrities and supporters of Caribbean music, art and culture. As well as performances by UK and International Soca artistes. This year Tempo Radio has been nominated for the second year running in the category of “Best UK Soca Radio Station” award. Tempo Radio is currently an award winning station having won the “Best UK Soca Radio Station” award last year; we are hoping to keep hold of this title. So if you think that Tempo Radio has been bringing you the finest in Soca for the past year then head to http://www.socamusicawards.co.uk/voting09.shtml and get voting now and keep us number one for your only choice in Soca music. Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/119 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:53:19 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/119 Bermuda Music Festival Bermuda is due to host the 14th Annual Bermuda Music Festival from 29th – 31st October 2009. Over the 14 years, Bermuda has welcomes an outstanding lineup of celebrity performers including Beyonce, Alicia Keys, Kenny G, Seal, Natalie Cole and Isaac Hayes, to name a few. Last year, it has been quoted that Beyonce is to have said that she fell in love with Bermuda during the Festival. A number of A-list artists are due to fly in including the likes of Ne-Yo and Multi Grammy winning producer Quincy Jones. Full line up can be seen below. Thursday, October 29, 2009 Naturally Seven Erykah Badu Wyclef Jean With onstage introductions by Quincy Jones Friday, October 30, 2009 Quincy Jones and Orchestra Patti Austin James Ingram Michael McDonald Saturday, October 31, 2009 Quincy Jones and Orchestra Naturally Seven Kenny Rogers John Legend Special Halloween tribute to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/118 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 17:06:14 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/118 Guyana lifts ban on Jamaican Dancehall artist Movado. Jamaican officials have talked and persuaded Guyanese officials in lifting the ban on David Brooks popularly known as Mavado. Mavado was originally banned back in April 2008, from performing in Guyana for a year and a half because of lyrics promoting gang violence and anti gay opinions but it was also reported it was due to security risks. Mavado will now be allowed to perform this month, which has already been scheduled for September the 18th and 19th. Written By Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/117 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:07:02 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/117 Fay-Ann Lyons Interview Fay-Ann Lyons Alvarez, is the daughter of Road March and Soca Monarch King Super Blue, and wife of Bunji Garlin. However, she made a name for herself on her own account; she composes her own lyrics and melodies. Entering the Soca industry only 7 years ago, she has since made a huge impact with her youthful, gifted and sexy persona.Fay-Ann started off as lead singer in the band “Invasion” and went on to become a solo artiste in 2005. She has since produced hit after hit and gained Road March title with her 2008 infectious hit ‘Get On’ and In 2009 she retained her title with ‘Meet Super Blue’’.Fay-Ann also went on to cement her name in history as being the first lady to claim all major titles in Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2009, and she acheived all of that whilst being eight months pregnant!  Prior to the Notting Hill Carnival weekend, Fay-Ann accompanied by husband Bunji Garlin flew into London from Trinidad and Tobago, along with a host of other Soca artists from many other Caribbean islands – Peter Ram and Lil Rick from Barbados; Berbice from Grenada; Ricky T from St Lucia; Benjai, Hunter and special guest Iwer George all from Trinidad and Tobago. All of these artists flew in especially for the “NextLevel Poison UK Energy Carnival Concert” that took place on Friday 28th August 2009. I caught up with Fay-Ann for a chat... Tempo: How does Carnival in Trinidad compare to other carnivals you have experienced around the world? Fay-Ann Lyons: Well for one, Carnival is differently organised and structured in Trinidad. Carnival is not centralised, it envelopes the entire country. You know, any part of Trinidad you go to for the carnival season you can find something happening; especially the parade, they have downtown parade, uptown, and Tobago has something. Even the South of Trinidad has something, even as far as Mayaro, they have their own thing going on. So you find the entire country gets involved, because that’s our culture. As opposed to other countries where they probably have it centralised to a park, a ground or a particular part of the street. Tempo: Being Road March winner in Trinidad this year and last year, how will you defend your title in 2010? Fay-Ann Lyons: The thing with Road March is there is nothing you can really do to defend the title because how it works is that the people have to decide if they want your song for Road March. So you could think your song is the best song in the entire world, once the people say no, it’s a no. If they say yes, it’s a yes.  So I wouldn’t have it any other way. Tempo: Would you encourage your daughter to follow in your footsteps? Fay-Ann Lyons: I wouldn’t encourage but I would support, if she so chooses because I don’t want to influence her in making a decision that would affect her life greatly in the terms of a job. Same way I wouldn’t tell her to go and study medicine or law. The same way I wouldn’t tell her to go study music because I want her to decide for herself what avenue she wants to go into. My role as a mother is to support her. Tempo: Are you planning to have more Soca babies? Fay-Ann Lyons: (Laughs) I don’t know about Soca babies! But I have one rule that my daughter has to be walking and talking before we can consider any others. At the “NextLevel Poison UK Energy Carnival Concert” Fay-Ann Lyons, Bunji Garlin and Benjai all came onto stage as the final acts of the night. They all collaborated, sung individually and in their own rights commanded the audience. Fay-Ann especially controlled the audience, not only by performing hit after hit but listened to the crowds singing back her infectious lyrics. Fay-Ann quite literally grabbed the attention of the crowd directly in front of her commanding that on her say so they were to move in various directions. As the crowds surged from one direction to another we could only look on in amazement that the people were thoroughly interacting with Fay-Ann Lyons. There was a fitting tribute to Michael Jackson where a medley of his greatest hits were played by the band accompanied by Fay-Ann singing.  It comes as no surprise that how even in the Soca genre; Michael Jackson was highly influential, but for us the spectators it was certainly an unpredictable element of the concert, which was greatly received by all. After the Asylum Crew, Fay-Ann and Bunji finished on stage they headed straight to the dressing room where I was fortunate enough to catch up with them again, to grab a quick chat, a photo and say my goodbyes.  After waiting for them both to catch their breaths, I congratulated them on an outstanding performance, all I wanted to know now was what will they be doing for the remainder of the bank holiday weekend here in the UK? "Well we are flying out soon, we are heading back home, and the flight leaves in a few hours" Fay-Ann said. I was very surprised to hear they were not staying a few more days, at least to attend Notting Hill Carnival, but these guys have one busy schedule still ahead of them. “We have to go; we can’t stay for Notting Hill Carnival as we have a number of concerts yet to do” explained Bunji. If you want to catch Fay-Ann Lyons, Bunji Garlin and The Asylum Band you can see them in the following countries: Friday 4th September: Brooklyn, New York Saturday 26th September: Trinidad (Pt. Fortin) Friday 9th October: Miami Vice, Ice Palace, Miami Saturday 10th October: University Fete, Broward Regional Park, Miami Sunday 11th October: Miami Broward One Fete, Bicentennial Park, Miami Written By: Nadia Auckburally http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/116 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 21:30:13 GMT News http://www.temporadio.co.uk/news/116