Boomshots

Category: Dancehall

  • Why Buju Banton’s Supreme Collab Really & Truly Matters

    Why Buju Banton’s Supreme Collab Really & Truly Matters

    Much More Than a T-Shirt

    This past Sunday, Supreme shared a very special video with its 12.9 million IG followers. The clip features Buju Banton toasting over King Tubby’s dub version of the classic “Love I Can Feel” riddim. Capturing a spontaneous moment of celebration, the video was shot just after the legendary reggae artist wrapped up a Supreme photo shoot at his Gargamel Music headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica. The voice you hear in the background throwing out ad-libs—“Oh Gosh!” … “Really & truly!”—is my own. Something magical happened in that moment, as it often does on this magical island. Right place, right people, right time. Video & Full Story After The Jump…

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  • The Long-Term Impact of Buju’s Long Walk To Freedom

    The Long-Term Impact of Buju’s Long Walk To Freedom

    Buju Banton’s epic homecoming at Jamaica’s National Stadium ushers in a new era for reggae & dancehall music.

    “My destination is homeward bound,” sang Buju Banton on stage at Jamaica’s National Stadium in the heart of Kingston. “Though forces try hold I down. Breaking chains has become the norm. I know I must get through no matter what a gwaan.” As the Grammy-winning reggae icon performed his song “Destiny,” a hit single from the 1997 album Inna Heights, the words took on added resonance due to the enormity of the occasion—a homecoming celebration for a living legend who’d been gone too long. Continued After The Jump… (more…)
  • WATCH THIS: Bulby x Christopher Martin x Beenie Man “Lots of Signs” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Bulby x Christopher Martin x Beenie Man “Lots of Signs” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    Brand New Visuals Off The Master Blaster Album

    Originally recorded for Sugar Minott’s Youth Promotion label, “Lots of Sign” was one of those extra-special tracks that made Tenor Saw a legend of Jamaican Music. The song’s timeless message, encouraging listeners to “face reality all the time,” inspired producer and engineer extraordinaire Colin “Bulby York” to update the tune on his recent Master Blaster project. “It was an honor get Chris and Beenie Man to rework this Tenor Saw classic,” says Bulby who blesses the Boomshots massive with today’s exclusive premiere. “Now the video will document the vibes for eternity.” Having worked with many of the legends of Jamaican music—as well as international acts like Chaka Khan, No Doubt, and Rihanna—Bulby chose Christopher Martin for the lead vocal. “When I was first contacted, it was awesome to receive that call,” says Martin, “and then it was incredible to find out that Beenie Man was included on it.” The Doctor offered a similar diagnosis of the process: “Working with Bulby is always magic—mi longtime friend,” says Beenie. “Is like Chris ah mi bredda. We just show up and boom! It done. One take. Laughs and vibes.” As for the video itself? Martin describes the shoot as “effortless,” adding that “the final product really tied everything together. Now I’m just looking forward to people watching it and loving it as much as I do.” Video After The Jump… (more…)
  • Fresh Off Collab With Alkaline, Kranium Announces International “Hotel Tour” Dates

    Fresh Off Collab With Alkaline, Kranium Announces International “Hotel Tour” Dates

    Kranium Picks Jamaican Star Jada Kingdom As Opening Act

    Revealing his brand new tour itinerary exclusively to Boomshots, Kranium was in a celebratory mood–and this time everybody haffi know! “Ladies you already know the deal,” Kranium stated, “pure entertainment!” The NYC-based dancehall star is on a roll after dropping a recent collab, “Just The Style” produced by Jamaican hitmaker DJ Frass. “‘Just the Style’ is just our reality, when we steppin hot gyal want to link up,” Kranium explained of the concept behind the tune. He also tapped rising Jamaican tour Jada Kingdom as his opening act on select dates of this must see tour.Tour Dates, Link And Latest Video After The Jump… (more…)
  • Buju Banton Lays “Boom Bye Bye” Controversy To Rest

    Buju Banton Lays “Boom Bye Bye” Controversy To Rest

    Gargamel Declares “Love and Hate can never Be friends,” Removes Decades-Old Song From Streaming Platforms

    Even before Buju Banton’s return home to Jamaica, there were signs that the Grammy-winning reggae icon was determined to make a fresh start. Three weeks prior to his release, the artist shared a statement on his Instagram making clear his intention to leave all contreversy in the past. “In light of the adversity I have encountered, I feel the need to stress that my only desire going forward is peace and love,” Buju wrote. “I only want to be associated with my craft. Having survived, I want to share the good news and strength of my music. I just want to continue making music, which I’ve devoted my life to. I look forward to the opportunity to say a personal thanks to my fans and everyone who supported me.” Exactly what prompted this sentiment was left open to interpretation, but since that time Buju has quietly made moves to back up this talk with action. Without fanfare he pulled the song “Boom Bye Bye,” which has led to so much criticism over the years, including protests and canceled shows. The track—which he has not performed live since the mid 2000s—is no longer available on Spotify, Apple Music, or Tidal. And yesterday, Buju issued a statement to explain why he made this move. Statement After The Jump… (more…)
  • Riddim Salut Jamaica’s Bob Marley Tribute featuring Yaadcore and Fiyah Yout

    Riddim Salut Jamaica’s Bob Marley Tribute featuring Yaadcore and Fiyah Yout

    First Riddim Salut Jamaica in New York

    On Sunday, February 10, deejays, clothing designers, artists, media personalities and dancers headed over to Lover’s Rock New York, for the highly anticipated, Riddim Salut Jamaica. Despite the threats of a snowstorm, the crowd was eager to experience this new event in the New York City area, which simultaneously honored the King of Reggae Bob Marley. Unlike other tributes, the focus was sound system culture.  The featured deejays, Yaadcore and Fiyah Yout (of Fifty Kaliba Sound) selected tracks from Bob Marley and the best of the best in reggae and dancehall music. More After The Jump…

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  • Koffee Previews “Rapture” EP at Tuff Gong Studios

    Koffee Previews “Rapture” EP at Tuff Gong Studios

    Koffee’s Music Makes “Everybody Lift Up Like Helicopter”

    Bob Marley’s legendary Tuff Gong Studios was the location for an exclusive preview of Koffee’s highly anticipated debut EP, Rapture. The artist born Mikayla Simpson—who just turned 19 last February 16–first popped up on Rebel Salute 2018 as a guest of Cocoa Tea and has been hot like a thermos since the release of her single “Toast” late last year. Born in Spanish Town, Koffee was inspired by artists as diverse as Protoje and Supercat, and has been cosigned by Chronixx, who appeared alongside her on a freestyle video shot in this very same studio. Tuff Gong packed with Jamaican media and Boomshots’ own Reggae Girl About Town Reshma B was there soaking up the vibes. Check out her on-the-scene interview with Koffee and a surprise guest who attended the listening. Video & Interview After The Jump… (more…)
  • Shaggy & Sting Win Grammy for Best Reggae Album, And Also Burn Badmind

    Shaggy & Sting Win Grammy for Best Reggae Album, And Also Burn Badmind

    “It’s nice to be nominated… But it’s better to win!”


    Dancehall reggae hitmaker Shaggy was honored twice at the 61st Grammy Awards, held yesterday in Los Angeles. Honor #1: The seven-time Grammy nominee was tapped to host the Grammy Premiere Ceremony, the day’s first round of award presentations, which was live-streamed from the Microsoft Theater, directly across the street from the Staples Center where the televised portion of the Grammy Awards took place. Honor #2: Shaggy’s collaborative project with Sting, 44/876, won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album. It was Shaggy’s second career win (his Boombastic album won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 1995) and Sting’s 16th. “They always say about the Grammys that it’s nice to be nominated,” Shaggy said while accepting the award. “I’m telling you right now, it’s better to win!” Interview After The Jump… (more…)

  • HEAR THIS: Alkaline “Never Lose Hope”

    HEAR THIS: Alkaline “Never Lose Hope”

    One of Dancehall’s Top Streaming Artists Releases Conscious Reggae Song

    At the start of his career, many coined Alkaline as a shock-value artist that would not have longevity. However, Alkaline continues to make hits, second only to Vybz Kartel for top streams at 25.3 million in 2018. Now, the artist releases new song entitled, “Never Loose Hope,” produced by DJ Frass Records. More After The Jump…

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  • Blacka Di Danca Celebrates Earthstrong at Negril Village

    Blacka Di Danca Celebrates Earthstrong at Negril Village

    It’s Just Dancing Party Presents A Fun-Filled Earthstrong Celebration for New York Top Tier Choreographer

    Most great events encompass various aspects that lead to the gestalt of the overall experience.  Events that merge disciplines are usually the most fun because they create a holistic cultural experience. The It’s Just Dancing Crew went all out on Friday, December 21, when they hosted a birthday bash for touring choreographer and now emerging artist, Blacka Di Danca, with music, choreography and fine dining at Negril Village – Rhum Shop.

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  • HEAR THIS: Jahazeil Myrie “Do Good” PREMIERE

    HEAR THIS: Jahazeil Myrie “Do Good” PREMIERE

    “Watch how you deal with people,” sings Jahazeil Myrie over dreamy production by his younger brother Jahleel. “Blame yourself before you blame others,” the young artist advises. “Cause ah your choice when the good matters / It’s right in front  your eye—time to realize / Have to do good fe good things reach you.” Today Boomshots proudly premieres a brand new tune on Leelo Records’ Virtue Riddim. Audio After The Jump… 


    Sounding wise beyond his years, the 21-year-old artist drops gems on this track, sharing what sounds like hard-earned wisdom. While blessing us with the exclusive premiere, Jahzeil shared the inspiration for his latest release. “What inspire me to write this song is just choices what people makes in life,” Jahazeil reasons. “The good and the bad combine together.”

    Without further ado, check the vibes right here, exclusively on Boomshots:

    Shout out to Jahazeil and  Jahleel along with their brother Markus. Nice to see Buju Banton’s youths doing good & carrying on the Gargamel’s musical legacy in their own ways.

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  • K Queens: Dancehall Royalty

    K Queens: Dancehall Royalty

     

    Dancehall’s Regal Twins Discuss Their Career and Their Collaborative New Single

    Twin sisters, Kaydine and Kerrine Francis, K Queens, have sung in close harmony from a young age. Sharing the stage for over a decade, K Queens have earned dancehall’s highest ratings. Their latest single “Jamdown Ranking” produced by Sugar Bear, on Rayvon’s GTC (Get That Cheddar Entertainment) Label; distributed by Tuff Gong International, is a remake of Althea and Donna (Althea Forrest and Donna Max de Reid)’s “Uptown Ranking.” The song’s “I’m Still in Love” riddim, was originally produced by Joe Gibbs in 1977. Alton Ellis hit song “I’m Still In Love” on this riddim, was later covered by Marcia Aitkens in 1987. In 2002, Sean Paul and Sasha revitalized the song, “I’m Still in Love” on the album, “Dutty Rock.” In the summer of 2018, Jay-Z and Beyonce used Aitken’s version of “I’m Still in Love” in the promotional ad for their second tour. In November 2018, K Queens laid down Up-to-Date lyrics over the Sugar Bear remodeled beat, for the modern, “Jamdown Ranking.” We caught up with the Duo, K Queens to discuss their music over time and their latest musical projects. Interview After The Jump…

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