Boomshots

Category: Jamaica

  • Busy Signal Is “Blessed With Versatility” On ‘Parts of The Puzzle’

    Busy Signal Is “Blessed With Versatility” On ‘Parts of The Puzzle’

    New Album Shows Off Turf President’s Creativity

    Busy Signal shows off the full range of his creativity on his long-awaited album Parts of the Puzzle which drops today on V.P. Records. Displaying his mastery of hardcore Dancehall, smooth Lovers Rock, and classic Roots Reggae, Busy also ventures into the Afrobeats space. The 17-track set opens with Busy’s smash hit “Stay So” (which has racked up close to 35 million views on YouTube) and goes on to include bangers like “Dolla Van” and “Got to Tell You” as well as collaborations with Afro B, dancehall O.G. Josey Wales, and Busy’s longtime mentor Bounty Killer. In short it’s a full-course musical feast that no reggae or dancehall fan should miss. During a recent visit to NYC Busy joined the Reggae Girl About Town at Negril Village restaurant. They tested out the hot sauce while discussing all the ins and outs and intricacies of the Hot Head’s creative process. Video After The Jump…

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  • 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…)
  • 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…)
  • HEAR THIS: Dennis Brown “No Man Is An Island” PREMIERE

    HEAR THIS: Dennis Brown “No Man Is An Island” PREMIERE

    Unreleased Classic off Fatis Tapes In The Oven Vol. 2

    When a young Dennis Emannuel Brown made his way to Jamaica’s legendary Studio One, he sang songs that laid the foundation for his legacy as the Crown Prince of Reggae. One of the earliest gems he cut for Coxsone Dodd was “No Man Is An Island,” a powerful single that became the title track for his 1972 album of the same name. A quarter century later D. Brown remade the tune for the late great producer Philip Fatis Burrell. Backed by the Firehouse Crew, Dennis Brown sounds older and wiser and he delivers lyrics of truth that have stood the test of time. This crucial mid-’90s update has never been released before, but thanks to producer Kareem Burrell it will now see the light of day on Fatis Tapes In The Oven Vol. 2. With this important reissue series, Remus carries on his father’s legacy while sharing beautiful music with the world. Give thanks.

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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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  • An Evening with Stephen Marley… On a Mission

    An Evening with Stephen Marley… On a Mission

    Tonight’s NYC Meet & Greet Will Benefit Ghetto Youths Foundation

    Stephen Marley’s acoustic tour stops in New York City tonight, and the evening at Sony Hall is shaping up be a real “Revelation Party.” Not only will Ragga be performing selections from his newly released album One Take: Acoustic Jams, but following the Nov. 15th stop of the multi-city U.S. tour, “An Evening with Stephen Marley,” the mutiple-Grammy-winning artist, second son of Bob and Rita Marley, will take part in an exclusive Meet and Greet to benefit the Ghetto Youths Foundation’s global mission to provide aid and opportunity. This is your chance to meet Ragga up close and personal. Details After The Jump… (more…)

  • “Miss Pat” To Be Honored at Hummingbird Gala 2018

    “Miss Pat” To Be Honored at Hummingbird Gala 2018

    Tarrus Riley, Estelle, and Johnny Osbourne Star At American Friends of Jamaica Benefit

    Patricia Chin, the co-founder of V.P. Records, will be honored for achievements on behalf of Jamaican music and culture at this year’s Hummingbird Gala. Along with her late husband Vincent, Miss Pat established the music industry powerhouse that remains Miles Ahead in Reggae Music. The annual AFOJ event, held this year at NYC’s prestigious Plaza Hotel on October 26, raises funds for progressive social causes in Jamaica. Last year’s fundraiser featuring Busy Signal raised US$350,000. In addition to honoring Miss Pat, this year’s event will celebrate the evolution of Jamaica music, kicking off with Studio One legend Johnny Osbourne, continuing with Tarrus Riley, fresh off a triumphant trip to Kenya, and Grammy-nominated R&B star Estelle, whose latest album Lovers Rock explores her UK reggae roots. Ticket and Bidding Link After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Wayne Marshall ft. Tessane Chin & Ryan Mark “Glory To God” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Wayne Marshall ft. Tessane Chin & Ryan Mark “Glory To God” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    Marsheezy and Jay Will Tap Into A Higher Power

    After months of having the biggest song  out of Jamaica, Wayne Marshall has released the long-awaited music video for his smash hit “Glory To God.” Marshall’s gospel-infused song which includes vocals from a choir, his sister-in-law Tessanne Chin, and gospel artist Ryan Mark is a departure from his badmon dancehall chunes, and has proved to be his biggest song ever. “We were under pressure to get the visuals ready,” the artist told Boomshots. “My father passed and I had to make the funeral arrangements, so we had to reshuffle our the plans. I knew we needed to have some great visuals to accompany the song which was doing so well in Jamaica and all over.” The song can be heard in churches, from passing cars, and even at dances—which is a rarity for a gospel song. Marshall and director Jay Will collaborated on the concept, which finds Wayne Marshall singing in a full suit of white, with a gritty story that intertwines several different people going through the struggles of life. “The video is basically showcasing the fact that we all have stories deeper than what people perceive on the surface,” says the artist, who says the main theme of the video is forgiveness. “We can’t really judge people,” Marshall adds. “We have to leave all judgment to the creator of all things.” Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • Beres Hammond’s Mission: “To Shed Some Happiness In Some Dark Corners Of Your Mind”

    Beres Hammond’s Mission: “To Shed Some Happiness In Some Dark Corners Of Your Mind”

    Jamaica’s Number One Soul Man Speaks On His New Album Never Ending

    There’s an old saying that “Music alone shall live.” With that in mind, the title of Beres Hammond’s latest album rings true, even if the man who makes these amazing songs—as he has done for decades on top of decades—is in fact a mere mortal. The release of a new Beres Hammond album is always cause for celebration, which explains our joyous mood today. One of the greatest singers and songwriters ever to emerge from Jamaica, Mr. Hammond has kept us waiting for six years since his last studio album, One Life, One Love, The wait will be over at midnight tonight with the release of Never Ending, a remarkable 14-track set that ranks with the finest work, from sweet lovers’ rock (“Hold You Till It Hurts”) to truths and rights (“Cry Freedom”) to the delightful jazz-tinged vibes of the title track. The musicianship is first-rate as usual—the finest players of instruments always come together when a true legend is in session—and with Bulby York on the mix how can you lose? During an exclusive interview with the Reggae Girl About Town, Beres spoke about all the singles released so far, including the rousing “Land of Sunshine” and “My Kinda Girl.” For anyone who’s ever wondered exactly what Beres’ type of girl is, Reshma B got the answer in this wide-ranging heart-to-heart conversation. Beres and RGAT also spoke about the song “I’m Alive,” which prompted some interested reflections on the artist’s legacy. “That’s what I think I’m sent here for,” Beres revealed. “To shed some happiness in some dark corners of your mind.” And then, as he often does, Beres shifted from reflective to jovial. “One time somebody asked me, what you want to be remembered as Beres?” He recounted his reply with perfect comic timing. “Mi say, ‘Remembered as? I want you remember me now!’” After a big laugh, Beres added. “If you should ever think of Beres, let’s say Beres not around. Just remember one ball of happiness and joy. A bundle of joy, of course through the music.” Never Ending drops tomorrow. While you wait, check this very special reasoning. “We nah talk no foolishness!” Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley “Autumn Leaves” Official Music Video

    WATCH THIS: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley “Autumn Leaves” Official Music Video

    Gongzilla In Sinatra Mode

    As the days get shorter, the weather becomes cooler, the leaves on trees begin to turn orange and red, it is clear that fall is announcing it’s imminent arrival. Coinciding with the changing season Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley dropped an appropriately titled video for the Stony Hill cut “Autumn Leaves.” Directed by Mark Pellington, the video is full of powerful images of people young and old, interpretive dancers, a string orchestra, and Marley dressed in all white that work together to convey a feeling of both melancholy and hopefulness that fits well with the songs message of navigating the ups and down of love with Zilla singing “don’t give up on me.” With its prominent string arrangement, no bass and no one drop, the song is an example of a growing trend of music that challenges the very definition of what a reggae tune sounds like. Video After The Jump…
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