Boomshots

Category: Jamaica

  • HEAR THIS: ZJ Liquid x Vybz Kartel “Forever” PREMIERE

    HEAR THIS: ZJ Liquid x Vybz Kartel “Forever” PREMIERE

    A Brand New Modern Classic Off The Producer’s MSquared Album

    ZJ Liquid’s career has progressed through many stages. The “Zip Jock” who’s famous for his next-level mixes on the top Jamaican radio station Zip FM was once known as “Lippo” when he was coming up in Montego Bay. Every Wednesday he used to hold a vibes at Pier One, chatting on the mic with various local sound systems. Eventually he got the chance to play music on Hot 102 radio in MoBay. He took the name Liquid when he relocated to Kingston 13 years ago with the inception of Zip. Since then he’s evolved into more than just an internationally known DJ—who has spun all over the world and live on BET—he’s also a top producer and an artist in his own right. “Some people may say ‘You ah do too much,’” Liquid told Reshma B in an exclusive interview. “But Jah bless we to do it or we woulda falter along the way.” Since establishing the H20 label in 2004 with the French Vanilla riddim, Liquid has emerged as one of Jamaica’s top producers, with top riddims like “Good Book” and “Fix Up” running the dancehall. But this April 15 he will celebrate another career milestone when he releases his debut album, MSquared via the mighty 21st Hapilos Digital Distribution. “It’s not a juggling, with all the songs on the same riddim,” Liquid explains. “It’s a compilation album putting together some of Jamaica’s best artists and I myself have two songs on it.” Today Boomshots proudly premieres one of the album’s standout tracks, a  romantic, melodic, energetic tune from the dancehall World Boss Vybz Kartel. Over a dreamy rhythm track, Kartel demonstrates his songwriting prowess, singing about his everlasting love for a girl who “moves so smooth, like acrobat” inspiring such deep feelings that he wants to give her “more love than you mama.” Flipping a line from Shakespeare’s As You Like It Kartel sings “The world is a stage; it’s all an act” over a relentless beat whose energy builds from a hard-hitting drum pattern, strings, and shimmering chord progressions. “Just live in the moment,” he sings euphorically, “It’s all we got.” Although Kartel remains one of the most prolific artists the world has ever seen, this sounds like a special song, with the potential to go around the world and back.  Like the song says, this one’s gonna “be here Forever.” Audio After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Unified Highway ft. Busy Signal “My Only” Official Music Video

    WATCH THIS: Unified Highway ft. Busy Signal “My Only” Official Music Video

    Cali Reggae Duo Taps The Turf Prez

    Rebelution frontman, Eric Rachmany, and DJ/producer Amp Live are definitely on to something with their side project Unified Highway. Ever since Boomshots premiered their video for “My Space” in January the response to their genre-bending sonic alchemy has been overwhelming. “This album is actually pretty diverse,” Eric told us back then. “Every song is a little bit different from the other, so we are excited for people to hear the diversity.” His words are borne out by their latest video, the sun-and-bikini-bonanza called “My Only” featuring sixteen blazing bars from Busy Signal. “Honestly, I’m not saying this to brag or anything but I really feel like this project is groundbreaking. It’s different from anything I’ve ever heard or been a part of.” Leggo. Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • HEAR THIS: Vanessa Bling “Worst” + Instagram Video

    HEAR THIS: Vanessa Bling “Worst” + Instagram Video

    Gaza Slim Takes “Work” Remix To The Next Level With Instagram Video

    Rumor has it that Rihanna’s chart-topping dancehall smash “Work” was inspired by a certain ex boyfriend who “took the heart on her sleeve for decoration.” In her new yardstyle refix (produced by Markus) the artist formerly known as Gaza Slim takes Rihanna’s “Work” to the next level. Just a few of the choice quotables: “Me have another man him like it / Him have a bigger better joystick.” “Every minute gal a breed / When me waan fi wuk you ah sleep.”  “Money me need me nuh need no sufferation / Gimme the keys fi mi car you a wasteman / Yuh mussi wan’ fi go sleep up ah the station.” “Pack your clothes them please / I want you to leave / Me ah go dash them out on the street.” “I know AIDS will get to you” Audio After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Noah Landale “Jamaica” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Noah Landale “Jamaica” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    The Rising Of A New Voice Out of JA By Way of The UK

    Dividing his time between London, England and his Jamaican birthplace, singer Noah Landale has developed a cosmopolitan approach to reggae that encompasses various influences and has a multi-generational appeal. His current single “Can’t Let Go,” produced by London-based Andre Solid for the Blue Rain Entertainment imprint, marries elements of Phyllis Dillon’s  1967 rock steady classic “If You Knew” with Noah’s dynamic, contemporary vocals lamenting a relationship that’s grown cold. When you come to my show you will be 100% entertained. Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, all the greats perform like they respect you for spending your money to come out and see them. That is the reggae artist I want to be.” Boomshots is proud to premiere his first music video, an ode to the island in the sun that’s sure to be heard for many years to come. Noah will make his New York City debut at IRIE Jam Radio’s annual Oracabessa Festival on May 31, with more US dates to be added throughout the summer. Noah is confident his music will be well received because “the power of good music can’t be denied,” he says. But don’t take his word for it; judge for yourself. Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • How Busy Signal “Everybody Move” Wound Up in That LG Smartphone Ad

    How Busy Signal “Everybody Move” Wound Up in That LG Smartphone Ad

    Chicago Ad Agency Energy BBDO Explains Why They Chose The Turf  Prez For Their Cool New Spot

    Turn on any radio station in the world for thirty minutes right now and you’re guaranteed to hear tropical house dancehall tracks by Rihanna/Drake and Justin “Natty Dread” Bieber/Skrillex. But thankfully the current boom in Jamaican music is not completely bypassing Jamaican artists. “Everybody Move,” a track produced by DJ Karim and featuring vocals by dancehall star Busy Signal, provides the soundtrack of a new ad campaign for South Korean multinational conglomerate LG. The super-fly ad, which has over 2 million views on Youtube, also features the British actor Jason Statham in a mind-bending array of characters. But judging by the comments, most of the excitement centers around the futuristic music. “The feedback has been incredible,” says Daniel Kuypers, Director of Music for Energy BBDO, the Chicago-based ad agency responsible for the trend-setting spot. “From the moment we heard it we were like, ‘This song is really cool!’”  Video & Interview After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: K’Coneil “Hot Like You” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: K’Coneil “Hot Like You” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    Nothing Beats A Fly Chick In A Fast Whip

    We first noticed K’Coneil when he dropped “Me One,” a humorous counteraction to Dexta Daps’ “7Eleven.” Since then the MoBay-born singer who attended college in the U.S.—and once sang at Madison Square Garden as part of a contemporary gospel group—has carved out his own lane within the music space, with a “genre fluid” style that’s sure to catch the ear of the wide world as he prepares his debut EP for release this year. While Seanizzle’s popular “90s Don Dada” riddim (distributed by the might 21st Hapilos Digital) is technically a “throwback” within modern dancehall, KC’s excursion on the version is 100% fast forward. “As a blend of Sean Paul and Usher, I see K’Coneil as the promissory voice of the future,” says the producer. “His dancehall flavor mixed with the pop yet edgy appeal is one that makes you want to dig a little deep and hear more.” Always on the lookout to champion the best and brightest new stars on the horizon, Boomshots proudly premieres the whiptastic video for “Hot Like You.” From the moment those Lambo doors lift up you know you’re in for something special. Leggo! Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Tifa “The Champ” x “Big Bumper” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Tifa “The Champ” x “Big Bumper” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    “Crouching Tiger Meets Kill Bill Meets Jamaica Booty Pageant”

    Tifa’s visuals are always next level, and this medley video featuring two songs—”The Champ” produced by Zj Chrome on the The Champ Riddim & “Big Bumper” on Birch’s Moskato Riddim (both distributed by the might 21st Hapilos Digital)—is no exception. Shot on location in Kingston Jamaica at the Chinese Garden in Hope Gardens the video was directed by RD Studios Jamaica with styling & makeup by Dexter 3D Pottinger. “In terms of the concept, it’s ‘Crouching Tiger’ meets ‘Kill Bill’ meets Jamaican booty/bumper pageant,” the DJ explained to Boomshots. (Things get pretty hilarious in that over-the-top pageant scene—with DJ Chi-Ching-Ching, producer Birch and comedian/radio host Dufton “Duffy” Shepherd as judges.) Later, in a heartfelt IG post, she elaborated on her creative spirit: “I was born different! I guess that’s why no matter what I always take a different approach to things🙏🏾🌟 & I wouldn’t change it for anything. I wouldn’t change me for anything💙” Neither would be. Boomshots is proud to premiere this very special video. Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • HEAR THIS: Jesse Royal “Silent River”

    HEAR THIS: Jesse Royal “Silent River”

    The Palace Pikney’s Lyrics Run Deep

    Opening with a sample of Horsemouth’s speech from the classic Jamaican midnight movie Rockers, Jesse Royal’s latest single, “Silent River” runs as deep as its title suggests. “We step through the valley of death without fear,” he rhymes in his trademark melodic flow, “Lion nuh join squabble with eagle and bear.” Although it reworks a chorus from the version found on Royal’s critically acclaimed Royally Speaking mixtape, this is a totally new version, produced by Kareem “Remus” Burrell for XTM Nation‘s Living Heart Vol. 2, a tribute to the producer’s late father, Philip “Fatis” Burrell. With Kirk ‘Kirkledove’ Bennett on drums, Llamar ‘Riff Raff’ Brown on keyboards, Mitchum ‘Khan’ Chin on guitar, and a legendary horn section featuring Nambo Robinson on trombone and Dean Frasier on sax, the track is an all-star affair, providing a fitting soundscape for the lyrical Beretta to buss.  Audio After The Jump… (more…)

  • Morgan Heritage Embarks On “So Amazing” U.S. Tour

    Morgan Heritage Embarks On “So Amazing” U.S. Tour

    The Grammy Family Brings Laza Morgan & Jemere Morgan Along For Support

    After twenty-plus years making real roots rock reggae music, Morgan Heritage took home a richly deserved Grammy Award this year. Their self-produced set Strictly Roots won the award for Best Reggae Album, outpacing strong competition from the likes of Jah Cure, Luciano, Barrington Levy, and Rocky Dawuni. To celebrate with their fans, the Grammy family has announced a U.S. tour. You can call it a victory lap if you like. They’re calling it “So Amazing,” so you get the idea. They’ll be supported by family members Laza Morgan (whose tune “One by One” is a certified Boomshot) and Jemere Morgan (Gramps’ big son who’s growing into a lover’s rock force in his own right.) Plus, on select dates, UK band The Skints and/or Orange County ukelele-strummers The Wheeland Brothers. Keep up with the band on their official website, or go ahead and download their app. (Ratid!) Tour Dates After The Jump… (more…)

  • Jah 9 Announces Summer Tour Dates

    Jah 9 Announces Summer Tour Dates

    From the U.S. to Canada, Europe to Africa

    Get those steamers ready. Jah9 is taking her powerful stage show on the road this Summer in support of a new album, set to drop when the weather gets hotter. If you haven’t caught the empress live & direct she is definitely a must-see. The new dates include stops in America, Canada, Europe, and Africa—with more dates to be announced. Keep up with Jah9 Online for updates and in the meantime, check out her latest video release, a live performance of “Humble Me” recorded by BBC 1Xtra at Anchor Studios in Jamaica. Videos & Tour Dates After The Jump… (more…)

  • HEAR THIS: Bongo Herman “Drum of Long Story”

    HEAR THIS: Bongo Herman “Drum of Long Story”

    Mek Rolling Stone Dem Know—Half The Story Has Never Been Told

    Just the other day Rolling Stone published a list of the supposed Greatest Drummers of All Time. Carlton Barrett of the Hippy Boys—a two-man duo comprising him and his brother Aston “Family Man” Barrett, who once backed Scratch Perry at the Black Ark and would go on to tour the world with Bob Marley as The Wailers—and Sly Dunbar of Sly & Robbie fame both made the RS list—ranking at Nos 29 and 65 respectively. Even as reggae fans give thanks for a likkle bit of recognition from a mainstream pub like Rolling Stone, we know that half the story has never been told. No Style Scott. No Horsemouth. No Santa Davis. No Lloyd Knibb. And no Bongo Herman, who sold me a copy of his own CD during a recent pass throug 56 Hope Road. Perhaps the best US$10 I ever spent. Herewith a highlight, throughout which the legendary Mr. Herman beats the skins in a percussive reinterpretation of Keith & Tex’s “Oh It’s a Long Story” produced by Derrick Harriott on his musical chariot. The intro is everything. Audio After The Jump… (more…)

  • Chronixx Bigs Up Vybz Kartel, Burns Out Ignorant Bloggers and VICE Media

    Chronixx Bigs Up Vybz Kartel, Burns Out Ignorant Bloggers and VICE Media

    Was Di Steam Ministah Misrepresented On Noisey Jamaica?

    “I will never dignify untrue and twisted publications made by a media who only seek to create headlines which drag artistes and their supporters through the valley of disunity and division,” said Chronixx in a new Instagram post. “It is all a part of the overall effort to divide our music, divert our creative focus and incarcerate the legends of our music- ‘To divide and rule is their only plan,’ he continued, quoting Sizzla Kalonji and Jah Cure. ‘I a nuh fool.’” The post was apparent response to media reports that Chronixx compared Kartel to a “cannibal” in a recent TV program called Noisey Jamaica. “Vybz Kartel himself has done a lot of good things in life, I must say,” Chronixx was quoted as saying in the program, which aired on the new network VICELand. “Gangsterism, cannibalism… because Vybz Kartel over time became a cannibal. When you listen to his music it is very cannibalistic.” Chronixx took to IG to clarify his remarks and to castigate “ignorant bloggers” and media outlets that sow discord rather than overstanding. Full Statement After The Jump… (more…)