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Entertainment Update June 2008!Popular Jamaican-born actor, Lacell “Girlie” Parnell, 38, of a New York address, remains in a Rikers’ Island facility following his arrest and charge for sexual misconduct. West Indian Times obtained information from the NYC Department of Correction that Parnell was arrested on May 29th 2008 at the Otis Bantum Correctional Center (OBCC) located in East Elmhurst, NY for an incident which occurred on January 1st, 2008. On May 30th he was in court and a pre-arraignment deposition was given, a temporary order of protection was issued and bond was set at 7,500 cash and not posted. He next appeared in court on June 4th, the case was continued, a temporary order of protection issued and bond still not posted. Again he returned to court on June 16th, the case was continued, a temporary order of protection issued and bond not posted. This is not the first time Parnell has been in trouble with the law, according to the NY State court system he was charged with multiple counts of sexual misconduct, both oral and anal, against victims aged between 13 & 17, the incident occurred on September 15th 2004 and he was arrested December 30, 2004, additional charges were added in January 2005. He pled guilty and was imprisoned for 15 days, there was a final order of protection for 3 years and probation for 3 years. Parnell is currently being assisted by a Lawyer from Legal Aid and will appear again in court on July 7th, 2008 for this latest incident and will appear in court on July 28th for violation of probation for the 2005 offence. Immigration services have also issued a warrant for Lacell Parnell.

COCO TEA & TARRUS RILEY ARE THE FIRST ACTS CONFIRMED FOR NORTH AMERICA'S PREMIER REGGAE FESTIVAL 'IRIEJAMBOREE!'

Reggae singer Calvin Barrett, aka Coco Tea, who endorsed USA, Illinois Senator and Democratic Presidential candidate, Barack Obama with a powerful song titled, Barack Obama, (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxn9jhypHfo&feature=related) is the first artiste confirmed for North America's premier reggae festival Irie Jamboree, which takes place on Labor Day Sunday, August 31, 2008 inside Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY. Coco Tea is now enjoying a major resurgence in his career on the international scene with the song that has garnered air play on radio stations around the globe and was featured on CNN, The New York Times, Washington Post and The Associated Press. The is not Coco Tea's first crack at an international issue, as his strident anti-Gulf War commentaries "Oil Ting" and "No Blood for Oil" were banned on radio in Jamaica and the U.K. The talented singer who was born in May Pen, Clarendon, has recorded a series of hit singles including "Rocking Dolly," "Riker's Island," "I Lost My Sonia," "Informer," "Can't Stop Cocoa Tea and "Good Life." Also, award winning reggae singer Tarrus Riley, who walked away with awards for 'Singer of the Year' and 'Song of The Year' at the IRAWMA in New York, the Excellence in Music & Entertainment and The Irie FM Awards in Jamaica is also confirmed for Irie Jamboree. The singer recently signed a lucrative endorsement deal which makes him the face of Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice in Jamaica. He will be making his first appears at a major outdoor park event in New York area and fans are excited. "He is extremely popular in this market right now so selecting him was a no brainer" Steven 'Yello' Williams, one of the principal of Irie Jamboree disclosed. Tarrus is a singer of superb talent who has taken the reggae world by storm. His music is about love, it is spiritual and it is danceable. On stage he is electrifying and extremely entertaining. His new album Parable, is a potpourri of musical progressions, melodies and soulful ballads. Stands out tracks include his cover version of John Legend's, "Stay With You," the monster hit "She's Royal" and "Lion Paw." When asked who are some of the other acts that could grace the stage at Irie Jamboree 2k8, Williams disclosed that the production team was in discussions with a number of top acts including Sizzla and a popular R&B group that could be announced soon. Last year's Jamboree attracted well over 30,000 music lovers who enjoyed performances from Stephen Marley, Beenie Man, Luciano, Morgan Heritage, Jr. Gong, Lady Saw, Mr Vegas, Anthony B, Tony Matterhorn, Munga, Macka Diamond, Etana, Da'Ville and others. With a track record of successful events, the promoters are leaving no stones unturned in their quest to make this year's event bigger and better than ever.

The 2007 International Groovy Soca Monarch Biggie Irie recently launched his 2008 Cropover tune entitled, "Big Girlzz".

Biggie, who is from Barbados, is known for his smooth but powerful vocals and his previously released hits including "Jump If Ya Jumpin" "Band On Fyah" and his ever popular, award winning smash hit "Nah Goin Home" and in keeping with this pattern of success, his latest Groovy Soca track is one which embraces and uplifts the full-figured woman. In "Big Girlzz" Biggie proclaims that his preferred choice in body type for his female companion is definitely the bigger, curvier kind, as illustrated in the lyrics "I want a Big Gyal for the Carnival". The Soca/Reggae crooner has released a potential radio and party crowd-pleaser for the Cropover and Carnival seasons. The song not only has catchy hooks, but has a clear message to eradicate discrimination and show love for our plus sized sisters.

Ce'Cile To Tour Europe

Dancehall's 'bad gyal', Ce'Cile, was recently in Jamaica to promote her two new singles Ride or Die and So Fly, which features Beenie Man. Ce'Cile recently rocked her fans when she performed at the Big Jam Rock Reggae Fest at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York along with Beenie Man and Mr. Vegas. The sexy siren also took Boston's Club Lido by storm, performing alongside Elephant Man and all the ladies singing her anthem, Waiting as well as favorites like Can U Do Di Wuk? and Aint Nutten For Free, but it was her underground song P Good that had the ladies screaming in agreement. She also performed at Water Street Music Hall in Rochester, New York on the same bill as Shaggy, Daville and Elephant Man, where again P Good was the song that got the largest crowd reaction. Ce'Cile left Jamaica on Thursday, June 26th for the Turks & Caicos Islands for a show on Friday, and then off to Europe for a month-long tour to promote the European release of her album, Bad Gyal. While in Europe, she will perform at the major reggae festivals on that continent. She is booked to appear at Reggae Summer Jam in Cologne, Splash Festival in Leipzig both in Germany; 77 Splash in Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Italy's Rototom Sunsplash; the Frauenfeld Open Air Festival in Switzerland; Delta Music Festival in Lisbon, Portugal; Reggae Fest in Bilboa, Spain and several other performances. Ce'Cile will then head back to the Caribbean for a performance in Guyana on July 26^th.

Carnival in Baltimore, MD!

The Caribbean American Carnival Association of Baltimore, MD will celebrate Caribbean heritage with authentic island cuisine including curried goat, rice & peas, jerk chicken, arts and crafts, international entertainment, live musical performances by soca, reggae, and steel drum bands, and much more at the Showcase of Nations Caribbean Carnival Festival. Weekend activities will held in Druid Hill Park on Friday, July 11 from 5pm to 10pm and Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13 from noon to 9pm. Admission is free on Friday, July 11 and $5 on Saturday and Sunday for persons over 10 years of age. Special rates are available for groups and those with disabilities. The press conference announcing details for the festival takes place on Wednesday, June 25, 12pm at the Blue Caribbean Lounge, 5402 Park Heights Avenue. The Caribbean Carnival Festival is a part of the 2008 Showcase of Nations Ethnic Festivals presented by Mayor Sheila Dixon and the Baltimore Office of Promotion and The Arts. The festival's excitement includes the spectacular Costume Parade on Saturday, July 12 at 12pm, on the 5400 block of Park Heights Avenue. The parade displays colorful costumes and the creativity of Caribbean culture and people. Mayor Dixon will serve as grand marshal. In attendance for this year's festival will be national and local dignitaries, including Baltimore City Council President Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Councilwoman Sharon Green Middleton, and Delegate Shirley Nathan Pulliam. The Caribbean Carnival Festival showcases the strong Caribbean heritage and continues to bring all segments of the community together.

Guyanese Master Drummer and cultural icon, Menses Griot, is taking the cultural form of kweh-kweh to Trinidad and Tobago.

The Shanto man, as Griot is known, is set to perform a Kweh Kweh ceremony at the ninth annual Sango/Osun festival in upper Gasparillo Road, Santa Cruz, on June 28^th. Kweh Kweh is a pre wedding ceremony that originates from west Africa but is still practiced primarily in Guyana. It includes libation, the bridegroom's visit to the bride to be`s home for a blessing and to be accepted by the family, finding his bride, taking her to the circle of elders, family and friends, dancing, drumming, giving of a dowry and story telling.

Beenie Lashes Out At Marley's

Beenie Man has lashed out at Junior Gong and Stephen Marley in an interview with Chris Goldfinger of BBC Radio. The feud according to Beenie Man kicked off at a concert in The Bahamas in April of 2008 in which the performance of Beenie Man was cut short due to time restrictions. In the Chris Goldfinger interview posted on Youtube, Beenie Man states, "Dem (The Marleys) invite mi to dem show in di Bahamas. When mi go a di show, dem gimme 25 minutes to work. .... Stephanie Marley go pon stage and seh 'yeah, mi love Beenie Man, yes, but di people dem need more Elephant Man', when di people dem nuh want no more Elephant. Di people dem waan hear more Beenie Man, no disrespect to Elephant Man 'cause a mi artiste, no disrespect. Mi love him to death." Beenie Man apparently felt disrespected by the two Marleys as he continued, "Di fact is, yuh caan go pon stage and seh dat when yuh is a Marley, weh yuh a pay mi fi come do your show. Wah yuh do? Pay mi fi disrespect mi? Carry me come a di place fi disrespect mi fi mek yuh know seh yuh nuh rate me? So mi mek a strong statement, mi seh 'mi know di whole a unnu nuh rate me because yuh neva put me on a show in Jamaica yet, yuh put Bounty Killer and a bag of man and yet it neva work out." "Mi definitely see seh mi a get used, the people dem a seh 'Beenie Man, Beenie Man' and yuh a call up a bag of different artistes. When di time done is 20 minutes left, how yuh can give a big man like me 20 minutes weh have over a 1,000 hit songs? Dat nuh mek no sense. A disrespect, so mi feel offended, so mi go pon stage and talk mi mind." The feud continued at another show in Germany when the Marleys refused to work before Beenie Man and allow him to close the concert. Beenie Man stated, "When mi deh at Germany now and di promoter go and tell them seh alrite yuh have 80,000 people inna di venue weh every year when yuh come ya is 45,000 people, now yuh have 80,000 people inna di show 'cause a Beenie Man, mek Beenie Man close di show. Dem look pon me and tell me seh dem a royal family of reggae music dem nuh work before no deejay. So nobody shouldn't find dat offensive?" Beenie Man later on in the interview said he has no issue with Bob Marley or Kymani Marley and has a lot of respect for them. However when it comes to Junior Gong and Stephen Marley he does have issues, "Dem nuh show mi no respect so why should I show dem di respect? I show Bob Marley di respect, I show Ky-Mani Marley respect 'cause him show mi respect. Stephen Marley go on like him too tough, and dem nuh tough like mi, 'cause dem nuh know nutten 'bout 'gangsta-ism' nor ghetto life. A deh so mi grow, deh so my music come from and dem nuh tougher than mi, a so my ting stay. Until death do us part, a so we tuff it out."

June 23 - Vybz Kartel is set to launch a line of condoms for the Jamaican market.

The brand is on schedule to hit the market in late July or early August and according to statements reportedly made by Kartel's business partner the decision to produce the condom is "not only a very sound business decision but a good idea to promote the concept of safe sex". "We believe that Jamaicans must continue to practice safe sex and we hope that Kartel's mass appeal will encourage more people to practice safe sex, especially in this age of HIV/AIDS which has destroyed the black communities in the US, Africa and the Caribbean. We also plan to give back a percentage of the sales to help with HIV/ AIDS awareness and prevention campaigns in Jamaica." Kartel was pleased with the joint venture which he believes will be highly successful. "This is something that I have always wanted to do, and we are going to take it to the masses, it is full time that we create our own industries and build our own communities by reinvesting in them." While he did not disclose details of the deal, it is believed that he is investing his own money in this venture. Kartel is asking his fans to send in name suggestions for the brand over the next two weeks to namethecondom@gmail.com

Singer Bar-Bee Released From Hospital In New York

Jamaican singer ‘Bar-Bee’ was released from a private New York hospital on the morning of Friday, June 20^th. The singer was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital after being involved in a motor vehicle accident on Friday, June 13. She had remained in a coma for two hours after the accident in which her Mercedes Benz motor car was totaled. The singer was on her way to the Jamrock Reggae Fest at the Hammerstein Ballroom, NY, where she was slated to perform. Bar-Bee is thanking all her fans who showed love and support during her time in the hospital. She has also addressed rumors that she had lost a baby during the accident. She says there was no baby and queried as to why people keep tying babies to her. Bar-Bee says that after eight days in the hospital she is ready to get back to work. She is working on a project due out in July called ‘I Love You Anyway.’

Super conscious reggae artiste Richie Spice's latest entry on the albums chart, "Gideon Boot" has been slapped with an indefinite ban by the IRIE FM Programming Department in Jamaica. The ban extends not only to the material found on the album "Gideon Boot", but to all songs from his repertoire. According to IRIE FM officials, the song contained an expletive that could faintly be heard after the song had ended, and came as a surprise to Announcer Elise Kelly who was playing the song in her shift. Representatives from VP Records also expressed their shock upon hearing of the ban, and have begun taking corrective steps to rectify the situation. The album was part of a deal with ace producer Bobby Digital, who was charged with the responsibility of selecting the final copies of the songs for the album, released on VP records label. Unofficial word from insiders suggest that a mistake was made on the part of the person charged with the responsibility of mastering the songs for the final album cut. Members of Bonner Cornerstone Music, to which Richie Spice is now officially based- have expressed outrage at this mistake being made; one which has sought to cast a negative light on the otherwise positive and uplifting reggae act. Bonner Cornerstone officials have categorically stated this will not deter Richie Spice and members of Bonner Cornerstone Music from their path of spreading positive messages of love, unity and strength to persons around the world.

Cowboys & Curfew Double Video Wraps in Kingston

Jamaican music icon Buju Banton recently wrapped shooting a double music video for his powerful anti-gun tune "Cowboys" and "Curfew" introducing Gargamel Music artist New Kidz. Produced locally by TD Film Production and directed by cinematic visionary, Ras Tingle, the pensively profound clip was shot on location in New Kidz' own Duhaney Park enclave as well as the historical Halfway Tree Square in Kingston. "Buju has the ability to command attention with his intense presence and voice," notes Ras Tingle, who actually worked as a grip on Banton's "Pelp It" video back in the day. "With so many of our youth embroiled in gun violence, the idea was to have one of today's most prolific Reggae artists -- and freedom fighter for equal rights and justice -- speak to them and to our people as a whole." The video for Buju Banton's "Cowboys" and "Curfew" featuring New Kidz will world premiere on TVJ's (Television Jamaica) popular weekly Entertainment Report this Friday night at 8pm. Both songs can be found on the wicked new Gargamel compilation Buju Banton Presents: Jamrock Classics Vol.1, which drops June 30th in Jamaica and the Caribbean, the UK and Europe. The album is in stores and online now in the US and Canada.

Stephen "Lenky" Marsden is home. The founding member of Buju Banton's much lauded Shiloh Band, has returned to his key position after a five year absence. "I never left the band," Lenky insists. "I never stopped rehearsing. I stayed in touch with everyone and everything." An accomplished producer, Lenky made history in 2002 when three singles on his smash Diwali riddim catapulted to the top of the Billboard charts (Sean Paul - "Get Busy" #1; Lumi Dee - "Uh- Oh" #2; Wayne Wonder - "No Holding Back #11)." He would spend the next several years happily cranking out signature remixes for such diverse artists as Smashmouth, the Isley Brothers, Christina Aguilera, Baha Men and Timbaland, but still something was missing. "My first passion is playing keyboard... I can't stray far from that. Mi is a keyboard player... That is what mi do," explains Lenky, who began touching around with the instrument at age 13. "There's nothing like playing live, showcasing my talent and just real musicianship. That must be expressed through a band." Catch Lenky with Shiloh Band, backing Buju Banton of course, at the following upcoming dates:

June 21 - Sierra Nevada World Music Festival - Booneville, CA

June 22 - Reggae & Soca Fest//Lake Clifton Park - Baltimore, MD

June 29 - Jammins Soccer & Reggae Music Festival - Brooklyn, NY

It's official; Richie Spice and his long time management company Fifth Element Records have parted on amicable terms. After months of speculations, company officials are now confirming what has been thought true, and reminds fans and media members that it was a consensual decision taken in the best interest of Richie Spice's career. Fifth Element Records can be credited with shaping the career of Richie Spice; one of the world's most critically acclaimed reggae artistes, and has expressed their blessings for him on his journey. After spending so many years atop charts around the world, Richie Spice has taken a decision to invest more time and energy into his own previously formed family based management company, aptly titled Bonner Cornerstone Music. Bonner Cornerstone Music currently handles the affairs of family members, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion including Richie Spice himself. According to Richie Spice, the change was necessary, as he desires to take his career on a different path.

STEELE TAKES TOP HONORS AT THE RMAA

The night clearly belonged to Steele as he walked away with three honors at the Reggae Music Achievement Awards (RMAA) held on Sunday June 8^th at the Holiday Inn Select hotel in Toronto . Jamaica ’s radio personality, Richie B, who had earlier received the award for international radio DJ of the year, had the pleasure of presenting Steele with the first of his three awards-album/cd of the year, “The Love of Jah”. In his interview following the presentation, Richie B commented that “presenting Steele with the album of the year award was most fitting, since it was the first CD produced, recorded, and sung by an artist residing in Canada to ever hit the top ten album/cd charts in Jamaica ”. This was just the beginning for Steele. Before long he was once again recognized as male vocalist of the year, and artist of the year. The Mobs Produced artist has been consistent with his deliverance of good reggae music, and his contribution to the Canadian reggae industry has been clearly noticed by all. The applause was overwhelming each time Steele went to receive his award, clearly indicating that all was in agreement with the accolades given to Steele. True to his humble persona, Steele took time to thank his fans, his co-producer Ernie Tresfall of Reflex Music, and all media personnel around the world for their love and continued support of his work. He also thanked all that went online to vote for him, and finally, the awards committee that so professionally coordinated the event. Steele later performed for his fans, and once again held nothing back in delivering an energy packed set with songs such as Another Confrontation, Breakfast in Bed and the ever spiritual Jah is My Strength. The second staging of the RMAA will be a memorable one for Steele, with his three awards, he went away feeling blessed, and endeavors to continue producing, singing and promoting good reggae music for the global market.

After two amazing performances in Los Angeles, including stops at UCLA while on the Irish and Chin Campus Rave Tour and Jamaican Gold, Irish and Chin, Inc. has decided to commemorate Mr. Vegas' 10th Anniversary with a West Coast Tour. The management team believes that a West Coast Tour is an ideal vehicle of celebrating Mr. Vegas' success and longevity in the Reggae music industry. And they feel that it gives fans on the West Coast a chance to thoroughly enjoy the Mr. Vegas experience. Impressively, in this 10 year time period, Mr. Vegas has managed to hold strong, despite that many artists in the genre have come and gone. "After 10 years worth of music, I have reached a milestone in my career," commented a visibly excited Mr. Vegas. "I've never dreamt of being in the business and continuously having hits for so long with songs like 'Nike Air' all the way up to 'Tek Weh Yuhself' and 'Hot Wuk'." With popular new songs 'Mus Come A Road' and 'Daggering' already tearing up the airwaves and creating a stir in the dancehall, Mr. Vegas is more than ready to bring it to the West Coast massive and perform for all of those who missed him at UCLA and Jamaican Gold. Mr. Vegas will also continue 10th Anniversary celebrations in New York, Miami and of course Jamaica. "Fans can expect all of my hits but with a special twist --- I really would like to rock each concert with an acoustic 'unplugged' type of vibe," shared Mr. Vegas when asked what his fans on the West Coast can expect. Get Ready! Mr. Vegas is coming to a city near you. For over a decade, Mr. Vegas has kept up the momentum by entertaining fans with timeless hit after hit. His most recent studio album Hot It Up, distributed by Delicious Vinyl, has been embraced by the massive. Notably, the racy single "Hot Wuk" landed on the Billboard charts. Mr. Vegas recently completed his Campus Rave Tour to great reviews. In August 2007, Mr. Vegas signed onto Irish and Chin, Inc. to manage his career.

International sportswear giant Nike has selected dancehall star Mavado to be part of the company's latest consumer marketing campaign. Nike recently commissioned Mavado to appear in an EPK (Electronic Promotional Kit) and to make an original track to support the Jamaican effort at the 2008 Olympics, starting August 8, in China. The company also made a limited number of sneakers to help promote the campaign. Mavado is said to be pleased with the move as it is not the norm for the sportswear giant to endorse artistes. While the project is part of a larger campaign that includes an original mix CD, iTunes and an Asafa Powell Reggae mix, Mavado's track, titled Faster than a Bullet is the only original music produced for the project. Footage for the EPK was directed by Ras Kassa and will be turned into a virtual campaign via Nike's own websites and a myriad of other websites and blogs. Two edits will be made, 30 seconds and five minutes and will include the fastest man on the planet, Asafa Powell, meeting his musical hero Mavado. In terms of the sneakers, hundreds of fans worldwide will be disappointed, as they are not for sale. Nike does not do endorsement deals with entertainers, only athletes so there are only four of the shoes in existence. One for Mavado, one for his manager Julian Jones-griffith, one for Asafa Powell and one for Shane Brown.

In Jamaica, the trial into the tax evasion case against popular dancehall artiste Beenie Man was on Thursday, May 29th, put off until June 30. This happened after Resident Magistrate Owen Parkins was not available to hear the matter when it was called up in the Kingston Tax Court. Trial into the case against the deejay, whose real name is Moses Davis, began in April with two witnesses from the tax department testifying in the matter. The artiste, who was arrested on a warrant in October 2007 after failing to turn up for a hearing of the case, is alleged to owe the state close to $48 million in taxes between the late 1990s and early 2000, at which time the entertainer was signed with Shocking Vibes and Patrick Roberts, his former manager. The tax authorities allege that Davis failed to pay over $29,290,116 in back taxes and $18,641,254 in penalties, both figures reaching a total of $47,931,371 during this period. Hearing in the matter will resume next month.

(May 30th, 2008) By now we have all heard rumors and innuendos about what took place backstage at Best of the Best 08 in Miami, Fl. Well, West Indian Times was in the press area backstage when things got heated between Buju Banton and Jr. Reid and we are here to give you an EYEWITNESS report as witnessed by Dawn Johnson for West Indian Times. In the press tent, Buju was doing his thing and Jr. Reid also came into the tent and when Jr. was about to leave I hollered out to him that I needed shots of him and another media house said the same thing. So Jr. Reid turned back and as he was coming coming back in, Buju was about to leave. As they passed each other Buju extended his hand in a greeting to Jr. Reid and Jr. said "No, mi nah shake your hand" and Buju responded "OK Jr. Greed." Then Jr. got upset and called Buju a batty bwoy. Buju looked at Jr. Reid in disbelief and said "Ah dat you ah call me? Batty Bwoy? and Jr. Reid said "Yes, an you can guh suck yuh maddah." Buju moved towards Jr. Reid and Jr. Reid began to move toward Buju and that was when the media personnel moved in and there was a scuffle whilst making sure that there was no fight. It was best of the best with a question mark. The rest of the review from both backstage and front stage can be read by clicking this link:

SOCA AWARDS ORGANIZATION, INC. is pleased to inform you that on Monday June 2^nd, 2008 the Categories, Honoree Recipients and Nominees for (iSA 6) will officially be announced.

On Saturday October 18th 2008 at 5:00pm the spotlight will shine on the St. Kitts Marriott Event Center “DOME” which will be the official location of Soca music. Watch as history unfolds, for the first time in the beautiful island of St. Kitts the Soca Awards Organization Inc. (SAO), endorsed by St. Kitts Tourism Authority presents the 6th Annual International Soca Awards (iSA6) – Under the Patronage of the Honorable Minister of State for Tourism, Sports and Culture, Senator Richard “Ricky” Skerritt. The Annual International Soca Awards is the Caribbean’s equivalent to the Grammy, Hip Hop, MTV and BET Awards, where exponents of the Soca Music art form are recognized and rewarded for achievements and excellence in various categories. This gala event is a presentation of the Brooklyn, N.Y. based Soca Awards Organization, Inc., whose founder and CEO is young and ambitious Trinidadian entrepreneur COLIN JACKMAN. After five successful years in New York 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2007 and in Trinidad in 2005, the 2008 event promises to be the biggest yet, showcasing the absolute best talent that the Caribbean has to offer with the usually highly anticipated live performances by the top international Soca Artists. A very high profile international entertainment superstar is expected to be the "Special Invited Guest Presenter" at the star studded evening of music, culture and honors. The Red Carpet and VVIP reception starts at 5:00pm, doors open at 6:30pm and show time is at 7:30pm sharp.

LIVE ON - ZIZ TV, ZIZ Radio, Win FM 98.9, Sugar City Roc 90.3 FM, Radio One 94.5FM - St. Kitts. Red Hot Radio 98.1FM - Antigua, thefrontlineradio.com, socaawards.com (iSA RADIO). We encourage you to stay linked to www.socaawards.com for up to date information and more exciting news on the 2008 International Soca Awards.

Support for iSA6 is provided by St. Kitts Tourism Authority, St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino, b Mobile, HYPE TV, Royal St. Kitts Hotel & Casino ZIZ TV, ZIZ Radio, socaawards.com, socatvonline.com, Win FM 98.9, Sugar City Roc 90.3 FM, Radio One 94.1FM, Red Hot Radio 98.5FM, sknvibes.com, Club Kactus, sknentertainment.com. Pour Moi – Cognac, JTE Spirits, W4 Tours & Promotions, tropicalfete.com, thefrontlineradio.com, toronto-lime.com and wukupnuff.com, www.socaordie.com, caribbeanmecca.com, tswradio.com, Soca Mix, Turner Video Productions, V.I.P Connected.

Reggae SingJay Sleepy Wonder who was recently voted Reggae Producer of the Year 2008 at the Virginia Reggae Awards has just inked a distribution deal for his company 'No Choice Music Group' and is soon to hit the road again with Thievery Corporation on tour of the US and also Europe. Big things are happening for Sleepy Wonder right now with a label distribution deal with 'Bug Music Digital' who are in London, LA, Munich and New York, it is a 3 year deal that will distribute any music coming out of No Choice Music Group with a concentration on ringtones and downloads; ITunes, WalMart, RapCity, Amazon 3, Napster, EMusic & all mobile outlets i.e. Verizon, Sprint, Groove, Bell and others. Listen out for Sleepy's track 'Warning Shots' as the title track on the movie 'Babylon Central' which is an original, independent feature-length film directed and co-written by Eric Hilton (Thievery Corporation) and shot on location in Washington D.C. in 2006/07.

Tour Dates:

June 20 – San Francisco – The Greek

June 21 – Las Vegas – Mandalay Bay Beach

June 22 – Los Angeles – Hollywood Bowl

June 24 – Austin – Stubbs BBQ

June 25 – Austin – ACL Television Show

June 26 – New York – Summerstage

June 28 – Washington, DC – Merriweather

July 3 – Milwaukee

July 4 – Rothbury Festival (Michigan)

August 1 – Big Chill Festival (UK)

August 3 – Parades de Cuero (Portugal)

August 9 – Creamfields (Spain)

(Jamaica Observer Report) No Bounty Killa at Best Of Best 2008

Speculation has been rife that deejay Bounty Killer would not be able to attend this weekend's annual reggae concert in Miami, Florida, the Best of the Best. On Friday, May 23rd, his management confirmed that the artiste is "experiencing travel document issues" and will not be able to leave Jamaica to perform on the concert for which he is being heavily advertised. According to the release, "The management of Bounty Killer regrettably announces that he will not be appearing at this year's staging of the Best of the Best concert in Miami on Memorial Weekend, due to travel document issues. "Bounty's work permit had expired some time ago and due to a number of factors conspiring against us - an administrative backlog, his passport needing to be renewed, the US Embassy in Kingston's overloaded appointment system and his intensive travel schedule (for example the European tour,) - he could not get the work permit application processed and an appointment at the Embassy in time for this weekend. "Bounty Killer also travels to the US with a waiver, which entails a lengthy administrative process, especially with the Homeland Security systems in place since 9/11. We tried everything humanly possible to fast track this process but time simply ran out. We are only just going public with the situation because up until the Embassy closed for the public holiday we were still trying. "Bounty's work permit visa has in no way been cancelled or revoked and we can assure his US fans that he will return very soon. We apologize to his many fans that have made plans to attend Best of the Best to see him perform and hope they enjoy the many other talented and entertaining acts billed for the show," the release ended.

Scorsese Pulls Out Of Marley Movie

(5/21/08) Oscar-winning film-maker Jonathan Demme has taken over from Martin Scorsese as director of an authorized documentary about Jamaican reggae icon Bob Marley. The untitled film is set to be released on 6 February 2010 to mark the 65th anniversary of the musician's birth. Demme, who won an Academy Award in 1992 for The Silence of the Lambs, said he was "thrilled and humbled" to work with the Marley family on the project. A statement said Scorsese pulled out because of "scheduling conflicts". Bob Marley's son Ziggy, who will act as executive producer, said he was "excited" by Demme's participation. "His empathy with my father's body of work and his unique understanding of the musical documentary form makes me confident that this film will be the ultimate celebration of my father's life," he said. Demme, who has previously made documentaries with Neil Young and Talking Heads, said Marley was "one of the greatest human beings of modern times". He said he hoped the film, produced by Tuff Gong Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, would be a "worthy vessel" for Marley's "spiritual and musical brilliance". Famous for such reggae classics as No Woman, No Cry and I Shot the Sheriff, the Rastafarian performer died of cancer in 1981 at the age of 36. Scorsese had been due to follow his Rolling Stones concert film Shine a Light with the Marley documentary. He is also working on films about Beatles guitarist George Harrison and former US President Theodore Roosevelt.

BUJU! BOUNTY! BEENIE! BARRINGTON! SUPERCAT! SIZZLA! ETANA! JUNIOR REID! MAVADO! TARRUS! ASSASSIN! MACHEL MONTANO!
THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR BEST OF THE BEST 2008

Official Events To Heat Up Miami This Memorial Weekend!!!

(Miami, FL -- 19, May 2008) The countdown has begun for Best Of The Best 2008! South Florida's longest running Memorial Weekend reggae concert is going down Sunday May 25th at Bicentennial Park (1075 Biscayne Blvd.) in bubbling downtown Miami. The stellar list of artists confirmed for this year's concert include legends Super Cat, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Junior Reid, Barrington Levy, soca king Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley, Mavado, Etana, Dean Frasier, Assassin, Serani, Bling Dawg and New Kidz. Doors open at 1pm sharp. Stage show kicks off at 2pm and ends at 11pm. In addition to bringing together Jamaica's biggest stars for Best Of The Best 2008, Rocker's Island Entertainment, in association with Massive B Sound System, Inc., will have South Florida 'pon lock with the sexiest parties throughout the entire weekend!

(Friday Night (May 23rd) kicks off with the official Best Of The Best 2008 Welcome Party at the Pawn Shop (1222 NE 2nd Ave.) EVERYONE FREE before Midnight with your Best Of The Best 2008 advance ticket in hand! Reggae music by Massive B, Steelie Bashment, DJ Springer, DJ Fergie and Cancer Hi Power. Soca music by House Arrest, Dorenzo and D- Life.

Saturday Afternoon (May 24th) Gargamel aka Buju Banton will host a VIP Pool Party at The Raleigh Hotel (1775 Collins Ave. @ 18th St.) on Miami Beach. Pool opens at 4pm. Ladies free before 5pm with swimwear. Music by Massive B, Stone Love, Richie Feelings and DJ Khaled.

The Official After Party (May 25th) for Best Of The Best 2008 will be held at Bongo's (601 Biscayne Blvd.) -- just a stone's throw from the concert. Music by Stone Love, Massive B, Innocent, Tony Matterhorn, Steelie Bashment, Onkore, Bashment Kid.

Best Of The Best 2008 is proud to have the following sponsors on board for this year's extravaganza: REBELMIX, X NEWS JAMAICA, JAMROCK MAGAZINE, WESTERN UNION, ISLAND TV, MIXX 96, IRIE TV, HOT 97, AIR JAMAICA, THE MARRIOTT BISCAYNE BAY, THE HILTON HOTEL, RA TRAVEL, GARGAMEL MUSIC, INC.
www.BESTOFTHEBESTCONCERT.com

Fanton Mojah. Jamaican entertainer Owen Moncrieffe, who goes by the stage name Fanton Mojah, is out of police custody in the UK. The musician was apprehended in Brixton, South London on Thursday, May 15th, following a police drug raid on a shop. He was released without charge Friday afternoon. The singer reportedly explained to the London Metropolitan Police that it was a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. At the time he was apprehended Fanton Mojah stated that he had gone into the shop to purchase a bottle of water. A shop worker who was also held for questioning remains in custody. Fanton Mojah has just completed his tour of several UK cities.

Machel, Tarrus and The Marley's Dominate 27th IRAWMA Awards at the Apollo Theater.

Review & Photos by Stan E. Smith (Staff Writer) Amid a spectacular stage lighting, great performances, award winners, the successful staging of the 27th International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem NYC on May 4^th 2008 concluded appropriately with a Finale of Bob Marley's One Love by entertainers, award winners, volunteers and staff.

From the red carpet with the stars to the awards presentation the show was an unqualified success. The stage lighting was bright and the stage prop were complimentary. Former Zappow band lead guitarist Dwight Pinkney who was awarded the Martin's International Award of Honor along with the absent Freddie McGregor opened the entertainment on with his self-penned Dennis Brown classic ‘How Could I Leave’ segment of the show. However the night’s awards were dominated by the Marley clan with five awards, Ziggy, Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award, Kymani Most Promising Entertainer and Producer's "Respect" Award and Steven, Best CD -Mind Control, and Songwriter of the Year, Trinidad’s soca maestro Machel Montano, arguably the Caribbean best entertainer created history by winning the most awards (3) for a soca artist for the Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer, Most Outstanding Stage Personality and the Bob Marley Entertainer of The Year award (Sean Paul has the record with 6 one time) Soca artiste Jaydene survived a mike mal function and came back like trooper as saxophonist Dean Fraser, who doubled as the event’s band leader, collected his award for Best Instrumentalist, then got back up on the bandstand telling the audience “ I have work to do.” Mutabaruka, who said he was running out of space on his fridge to put them, took home his 22^nd IRAWMA trophy for Best Poet. The awardee for the category of Best Song of the Year was announced by Ritchie B, the entire audience sensed that their favorite She's Royal, by Tarrus Riley would take it, it did. Rousing approval and screams by female patrons validated this unquestioned choice. Riley, added a nice touch when he told the female this one was for them. He received an equally appreciative welcome when he returned to collect his trophy for the Best Male Vocalist. The no-show self proclaimed King of Dancehall Beenie Man, received two IRAWMA awards for recording Artist of the Year and DJ of the Year. Though he wasn’t the only winner brothers Stephen and Ziggy Marley were also no-show but had brother Kymani there to represent them. Beenie has been a no-show before and his lack of representation speaks volumes about his lack of professionalism. Awardee Billy Ocean who wasn’t there, but sent a video taped thank message, so did Shaggy some years ago while he was on the road. One has to wonder if this attitude explains why Ocean and Shaggy are bonafide superstars and Beenie, after so many years still remains an ever popular artist who just can’t get to the next level. Etana, who seems to be everywhere these days walked away with the Best Female Vocalist, award. Author of Bob Marley Reggae King of the World Malika Lee Whitney remarked how impressed she was with Etana’s performance of her hit ‘Warrior Love. ’ Queen Ifrika, also a no-show got the nod for Best Female DJ/Rapper beating out D’Angel, Lady G, and Macka Diamond. The female performers and presenters were fashion statements from their performance out fits to their red carpet dress they were sexy to elegant. Cecile had her gold see-through top gown, Lady G, looked splendid in her power blue gown with silver jewelry; D’Angel in her sexy green sequin high front cut long tail back dress, Barbee, in her bootylicious dress which complement her ample booty, Etana’s royal gown gave her a regal presence and host Sheila Hylton in her tight-fitted black leather out fit.

The murdered South African reggae star, Lucky Dube, was awarded posthumously as the Best African Entertainer, while Buju Banton another no show received the award for Most Educational Entertainer. Diamond Grammy-winning dancehall star Shaggy, who was entertaining with his antics received the award for Best Music Video for Church Heathen. Sean Kingston, also a no-show received two trophies for Best New Entertainer and Best Crossover Song for Beautiful Girls. The IRAWMA Hall of Fame inductees were London-based, Trinidadian born singer Billy Ocean, Jamaican gospel great Claudelle Clarke, and Tuff Gong studio recording engineer Errol Brown and London based Jamaican born, Rock Steady singer Winston ‘Mr. Fix’ Francis aka Billy ‘Extra Careful’ Cole. Publisher of the New York base Everybody's Magazine, Herman Hall was recognized with an Award of Appreciation for Contributions to the Music Industry. Everybody’s is possibly the oldest Caribbean entertainment/news publication in the United States. The magazine began publication in the1970s. Entertainer, Winsome Benjamin and Carib News publisher Karl Rodney also received awards in this category.

List of IRAWMA 2008 Winners:

1. Entertainer of the Year – Machel Montano

2. Recording Artist of the Year – Beenie Man

3. Best Male Vocalist – Tarrus Riley

4. Best Female Vocalist – Etana

5. Best Song – “She Is Royal”- Tarrus Riley

6. Best CD – “Mind Control”- Stephen Marley

7. Best Crossover Song - “Beautiful Girls”- Sean Kingston

8. Best Gospel Song - “Lava Ground”- Prodigal Son

9. Best Female D.J./Rapper – Queen Ifrika

10. Best Male D.J./Rapper – Beenie Man

11. Best New Entertainer – Sean Kingston

12. Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer – Machel Montano

13. Best Reggaeton Entertainer – Don Omar

14. Best Latin Entertainer- Marc Anthony

15. Best Compas Entertainer – Carimi

16. Best African Entertainer – Lucky Dube- Post Humous

17. Best Soukous Entertainer- Papa Wembe

18. Best Hip Hop/R&B Entertainer- Rihanna

19. Award for Outstanding Contribution to World Music – King Sunny Ade

20. Most Outstanding Stage Personality – Machel Montano

21. Best Music Video – Shaggy “Church Heathen”

22. Best Poet- Mutabaruka

23. Most Educational Entertainer – Buju Banton

24. Most Outstanding Show Band– Morgan Heritage

25. Most Consistent Entertainer – Freddie McGregor

26. Most Promising Entertainer – Ky-Mani Marley

27. Most Improved Entertainer – Junior Reid

28. Best Instrumentalist - Dean Fraser

29. Best Backing Band – Live Wyya

30. Most Popular Selector – Mighty Crown

31. Concert of the Year –- Reggae Sumfest

32. Promoter of the Year – Sumfest Production

33. Producer of the Year – Stephen McGregor

34. Songwriter of the Year – Stephen Marley

35. Selassie I Award for Spiritual Service through Music – Tony Rebel

36. Community Service Award – Capleton

37. Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award- (a) Ziggy Marley, (b) Jay-Z

38. IRAWMA Hall of Fame– Inducted May 4, 2008- (a) Billy Ocean, (b) Claudelle Clarke, (c) Errol Brown, (d) Winston Francis

39. Martin’s International Award of Honor- Given May 4, 2008- (a) Freddy McGregor, (b) Dwight Pinkney

40. Producer’s “Respect” Award- Given May 4, 2008– Ky-Mani Marley

41. Awards of Appreciation for Contributions to the Music Industry- (a) Herman Hall- Everybody’s Magazine, (b) Winsome Benjamin- Entertainer, (c) Karl Rodney- Carib News

Kehv, Dean Brown and Angel @ bushbaby in Brooklyn, NY

Story & Photos By Stan Evan Smith

Florida based acoustic R&B Reggae artist, Kehv and DC base Spoken Word poet, Angel recently made their New York debut at bush baby in Brooklyn. They were joined by multi-instrumentalist Dean Brown. The trip from Maryland/DC to New York City was fast. With temperatures in the 40’s and chilly, the small but intimate multi cultural ambient setting, at bush baby, located a few blocks from the home of one of hip hop lyric poet, the late Biggie Small, was the ideal setting. The evening’s underground music created an Irie and Mellow vibe. Angel, set the tone for the night’s spiritual communication. With an emphasis on language as her form of communication noting “the deepest love is written in the word” she opened with a poem titled ‘Word. She exited but the audience wanted more, but, that was later. Multi-instrumentalist Dean Brown, who’s set featured Jamaica Ska, one-drop Reggae then Dub picked up where Angel left off. Brown let loose with the Bob Marley’s ‘classic ‘Trench Town Rock’ then segued to ‘Song of a man’. He conjured echoes of the late Augustus Pablo, the great reggae instrumentalist who popularized the melodica in reggae with his melodic incantations of Far East melodies from his melodica on the track ‘Peace and Love. When the evening’s featured guest Kehv, took his seat before the mike, guitar in tow he thanked the audience for coming and apologized for his hoarseness. He launched into an acoustic dub ‘Free way.’ As he went along he became more comfortable and the reggae poet/rap poet in him emerged. Kehv related his life experiences through his music and was able to connected with the audience on ‘Life Story.’’ After a brief intermission Angel resume her set with music as back drop. Looking confident her body language oozed with sexual passion on the Robbie Marley penned “Sniper.’ However it wasn’t until she recited ‘Addicted’ the love drug, that the sexual passion emanating from her erotic words drew the audience into her erotic web. Kehv and Dean came back for a jam session, with Dean playing the conga drum and Kehv the guitar they sang a medley of Marley tunes ‘Stir it up’, Redemption song’ and ‘No Woman No Cry’. Angel, after some coaxing joined and exhorted the willing audience to also join in, they did. She teamed vocally with Dean for another Marley classic ‘Three little Birds.’ As the vibe slowly wound to a close, the evening’s fulfilling finale to a great of entertainment came to an end.

The Itals Bring Sweet True Roots Reggae To Virginia Beach, VA

Review by Sister Vickie - Although I am not a dancehall fan, I have to to big up 'Mike Walla' and sista friend 'Beautiful' {she sounds like the late Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopez, from the group TLC). They opened 'The Ital's' show, Saturday night, April 26^th at the Jewish Mother down at the Ocean Front in Va. Beach to a tight but short R&B flava set ending with ‘Cry Baby’, then bringing on the group 'Bukwi,' {nominated this year for two awards in The Virginia Reggae Awards including Best Song of the Year & Best New Artist}, the band consisted of King Louie & Tony Nucklez + DJ Cool Mo singing a mix of hip-hop with a roots/dancehall reggae flava. After a quick band change, “NATURE’S CHILD” who are reggae ambassadors based in Virginia came on stage. Nature's Child is a band that is multi-cultural, multi-racial, and multi-talented. They are comprised of; George (Lead Vocals, percussions), Delores {Dee}, Vocals, Austin-(Drummer), Joe (Saxophone, Flute, background vocals), Vasily (Bass Guitar Backup), Ed (Bass Guitar) and David {Young Lion} Lead Guitar, Vocals. Their positive energy was in true roots and rockers form. They started their set with a Bob Marley cover, of ‘WAR’ and the energy continued to rise throughout their set of sharing the message of peace and love to new fans and old fans alike. They drew in the crowd who sang along with them seeming to enjoy every moment. They had the crowd in the palm of their hands wanting more…… In closing they, invited opening acts, Buckwi and Mike Walla all showing ‘one love and unity’ singing, together Jr. Gong’s ‘Welcome To Jam Rock.’ Then Nature’s Child brought on the nights head line act, The Itals…… There was an instant feeling of “all is IRIE” the minute Keith Porter and his band, with two back-up singers (one being his daughter Kada) hit the stage and began to sing ‘sweet roots reggae music’ to the pleasing crowd. He sounds as good today as he did 30 years ago! I felt as if I was back in Jamaica at a Heineken Star Time show swaying to di music in the cool outdoor breeze with mi Rasta bredrens and sistrens! Mi say, the sweet smile of Keith Porter said it all on that small stage, ‘di bredren love to sing’ and he knows how to entertain an audience. The band was tight and in the mood to make sure every one was feeling Irie! He even sang an old R&B song wid a Jamaican flava. Winding down their set, they sang their signature song “Inna Dis Ya Time” to a very satisfied crowd. Can’t end dis review without big up and nuff respect to di drummer 'Drummy Zeb' for keeping the vibes full of energy! Mi really happy Iya went to dis here show. Give thanks to the promoters VIP & Fidelity Records who brought the show to the Jewish Mother.

I make no excuses for lovin' to di bone mi roots and culture! Looking forward to seeing the Itals next strong when they pass through Virginia.

One Love! Sista Vickie say so!

Cocoa Tea & Ritchie Stevens Shine at Team Bickle Benefit Concert

By Stan Evan Smith

BROOKLYN- A midsize crowd of Caribbean nationals and well wishers including dignitaries, sponsor and celebrities were treated to fine quality top flight quality entertainment by reggae stars at Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB) concert at Brooklyn College’s Walt Whitman auditorium on Sunday April 20^th 2008. The fund-raising event for the Jamaican high school athletes participating in 114th Penn Relays at Franklin Field at the University of Pennsylvania and the August Olympics in Beijing saw reggae stars Coco Tea and Ritchie Stephens and equally talented new comers Etana, Duane Stephenson and Trinidadian reggae singer Jah Melody, (who could turn out to be one of the best things to happen to reggae music in long time. They gave stellar performances at a fine event. Sing jay Gyptian made a cameo appearance. On hand were Anthony Johnson, Jamaica's ambassador to Washington and permanent representative to the Organization of American States along with his wife, Pamela; incoming consular general Genevieve Brown Metzger; and New York State's assemblyman, Nick Perry, local media, Sirius Satellite Radio, Program Director of Reggae and Gospel Pat McKay and President of VP Records Chris Chin. The show opened with shades of Bitty Mclean by unknown singer Shango Trex. Next up making his debut was Jah Melody who calls himself 'the voice of the ghetto youths.’ Despite getting a lousy mix his amazing evocative vocal shone through on “Be Prepared” (title of his debut CD) and Ithiopia, The mastery of vocal range he demonstrated on Stevie Wonders “Ribbon in the Sky” proved impressive. Former 2-Isis member, Duane Stephenson, who was making his New York debut, (penned Jah Cure hit Reflections) with his laid-back aurora took thing up a notch with “Ghetto Pain” and his hit “Cottage in Negril” remake of the late Tyrone Taylor classic. However, it wasn’t until the autobiographical “Welcome to August Town” that he got into high gear. Roots singer Etana, gave an emotionally charged performance. With her regal bearing on stage, she added diva-like head rolls and walks. Her tortured and pained voice expression on “I am not afraid” made the jazz& R&B accompanying arrangement more relevant. She segued into “Wrong Address” “Roots” and Warrior Love. She had the audience exactly where she wanted them. Ritchie Stephens used his limited time wisely. As the audience rousing welcomed him he used chorus, hooks and verses of his many hits and R&B covers he stir the audience from their seats into the aisle. From his reggae hit ‘Trying to get to you’ to his soulful crooning on “ There’s No House W/out a home’ and Luther Vandross’ “I’d Rather Have Bad Times With You’ to his standard tribute to his mentor Dennis Brown, ‘Should I’ and ‘ Spanish Harlem’ the crowd begged for an encore as he obliged. Coco Tea, the Barack Obama man of the night gave a nearly one hour set which the fans thoroughly enjoyed. The Rastafarian singer chanted down Babylon’s throne and gave praises to “Israel’s King’ and ‘Holy Mount Zion’, then he took the bad boys to task on “Rikers Island’ and disparaged the rent-a-dreads. He had a segment for the ladies w/” 'Love Me', 'She Loves me now' and 'Good Life’ and he went way back in time with 'Tune In.' For his encore he duly obliged the clearly satisfied audience with his newest hit, his tribute to American Democratic presidential candidate, Barrack Obama. The evening’s proceedings closed what was a great abbreviated but memorable concert.

REGGAE INVADES SWEET AUBURN SPRING FESTIVAL IN ATLANTA WITH CARIBBEAN VILLAGE ADDED TO THIS YEAR'S EVENT

Atlanta, GA: The Sweet Auburn Music Festival in Atlanta is the largest multi-cultural music, art, film and food festival in the Southeastern United States. The three-day festival will take place this year from May 7 to 11 and is expected to attract some half a million consumers. The festival takes place in the historic Sweet Auburn/ Martin Luther King National Park District in downtown Atlanta. This year, for the first time, a Caribbean Village is being established at the festival by New Creation Records, an Atlanta-based record label. Some 16 reggae artists from Jamaica and the United States will perform over the 3 day period, and companies from across the country that do business with the Caribbean American market in the Southeastern United States can showcase and sell their products to the exploding number of Caribbean American residents in the Atlanta region. The Sweet Auburn Spring Fest 2008 will have ten stages with continuous entertainment alongside pavilions that will put focus on culture, health, sports, business & technology, dream homes, fashion, a film festival, a celebration of books, cars & bikes and international cuisine. Families attending with kids can enjoy the very popular Kids Fun Zone loaded with engaging fun activities for their enjoyment. "Given the growing popularity of reggae music in the region, and with a growing number of Caribbean immigrants moving to the Atlanta region, the time is right now to diversify the offerings of the Sweet Auburn Spring Festival", Danny Sterling, president of New Creation Records commented. Among the reggae artists performing are Dez-I, Phil Watkis and Josie Mel form Jamaica and Joseph Quote, Charmaine Da Costa (formerly of Whorl A Girl), Papa Lova, Benz Man, Joanna Marie, Vital and Rochelle from the United States. For more information, visit www.sweetauburn.com or www.newcreationrecords.com