News at VP Records

Etana Scores with 'Happy Heart'

2009-12-15T18:44:00.006-05:00

Kingston, Jamaica -- December 15, 2009 -- Reggae soul sensation Etana flawlessly delivers passionate vocals on her new love song "Happy Heart," boldly exposing her emotional side. And now, a gripping one-of-a-kind video, zooming in on the theme of unconditional love, will accompany the steamy single. Spearheaded by famed Directors Scorpio 21, the Happy Heart video is a true work of art and like no other in it's genre.

Creatively set in the mid-19th Century ( circa 1854), the Happy Heart video depicts a tale of forbidden love so strong that no matter the circumstances, the love is everlasting and omnipotent even from a distance. In this video, Etana hails from wealthy family, yet her genuine love interest is with one of the house helpers. The love affair blossoms behind closed doors until Etana is thrusted into an arranged marriage to someone of her status. Despite this forced union, Etana's true love never withers.

Setting themselves a part with new and exciting themes for video production, Scorpio 21 says, "the concept of the video is to show a love story that brings out the words of the chorus in a different light: 'I love you, I love you unconditionally...no matter what...no matter what... I am always going to be your girl.'

Filmed on location at the legendary Devon House in Kingston, Jamaica, Scorpio 21 selected an picture perfect setting to capture the ambiance of the Victorian era. Moreover, the elaborate costumes (coordinated by Melissa Dunkley) and set bring this period piece to life. This video is definitely a breakthrough effort, as most in it's genre are set in current times. Scorpio 21 is one of Jamaica's most visible production teams. Under their belt, they have a number of high quality video music productions including Tarrus Riley's "Good Girl Gone Bad," Wayne Marshall and Tammy Chin's "Good Love," and Rain Seville's "Slippery When Wet."

Reggae music fans and critics will love this latest effort. The production of the "Happy Heart" video concludes Etana's trio of new music videos filmed since November. Fans will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite new Etana video and win top prizes in an exclusive RETV Video Music Competition, which will begin on December and feature "Happy Heart," "Free" and "August Town."

Courtesy Irish and Chin

iTunes Names Serani 'Best New Reggae Artist' of 2009

2009-12-15T17:33:00.002-05:00

Vybz Kartel Assures Fans He'll Be @ 'Gully Meets Gaza'

2009-12-15T15:18:00.003-05:00

Vybz Kartel a.k.a Addi the Teacha is reassuring fans in the island of Antigua that he will be performing this weekend at the 'Gully Meets Gaza' show which will also feature Bounty Killer.

"Whenever Antigua calls, Vybz Kartel will always answer. I will be at Cherry's event, and the fans should not be anxious about whether I will be coming or not, I will be there," he said emphatically in a release.

"The fans can come out and expect the Portmore Empire to give them a great show that they won't forget anytime soon."

RIDDIM DRIVEN & PULSE CNCPT HOLIDAY PARTY

2009-12-10T19:04:00.001-05:00

CLICK FLYER FOR INFO!

Vybz Kartel labeled Dancehall Hero by iMeem

2009-12-01T17:06:00.002-05:00

Vybz Kartel: Dancehall Hero
Dec 01, 2009 at 10:47 AM PDT|By Matt Graves

Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel (also known as Addi Di Teacha) has been quietly burning up the imeem charts, especially in New York City...

Click to Listen

CYBER SALE - 3 DAYS ONLY- 40% OFF EVERYTHING

2009-12-01T14:04:00.002-05:00

FOR 3 DAYS ONLY RIDDIM DRIVEN WILL BE OFFERING 40% OFF OF EVERYTHING ON THE SITE!!!

ALL PRICES ARE DISCOUNTED NOW - THIS ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR SO DON’T MISS OUT! WE ARE ALSO OFFERING SPECIAL HOLIDAY PACKAGES AT GREAT PRICES.
CHECK IT OUT!
www.riddimdrivenclothing.com

REGGAE’S FYAH MUMA, ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN TOUR

2009-11-24T17:52:00.004-05:00

QUEEN IFRICA, HAILED AS REGGAE’S FYAH MUMA, ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN TOUR IN SUPPORT OF HER VP RECORDS ALBUM DEBUT MONTEGO BAY

Earlier this year, the poised yet audacious singer/songwriter Queen Ifrica released her VP Records debut album, Montego Bay. Her strikingly complex Rastafarian voice achieves a rarefied balance on this 13 song selection with a stirring mix of spiritually empowering anthems, lover’s rock tunes and searing social commentaries.

The dancehall styled title track addresses her hometown of Montego Bay’s glaring discrepancy between its pristine five star resorts verses the grim realities of a city wracked by poverty, violence and unemployment. Her uplifting first single “Lioness on The Rise” (produced by Donovan Germain) exudes her courageous and fierce nature at heart, then she displays her romantic side over a mesmeric one‐drop beat on the rapturously sung hit “Far Away” (produced by Rickman Warren). She also tells a poignant tale of child molestation on “Daddy” (produced by Kemar McGregor) which has already received worldwide recognition and reached the top of reggae charts, even though certain sectors within Jamaican society attempted to get the song banned because of “Daddy” subject matter. “I wanted corporate Jamaica to realize that if a society is engulfed by violence we have to look at the homes where these violent tendencies are coming from,” remarks Ifrica.

Recently, The Kingston Chapter of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) presented Queen Ifrica with the Marcus Garvey Award for her campaign against skin‐bleaching. She is a celebrity blogger for AOL Blackvoices and UrbanBeautyCollective.com discussing maintenance, styling and care for natural hair. Moreover, she will be prominently featured in Islands Magazine upcoming January/February 2010 issue (on stands December 29, 2009). Earlier this year and in celebration of national Caribbean Week, she performed her hit “Lionness on the Rise” on New York’s WPIX Morning Show, watch here.

Starting on Thanksgiving, the renowned reggae star Tony Rebel will join Queen Ifrica on her 12‐city tour in support of Montego Bay. From San Francisco to New York City, her aim is to meet fans and gain some new ones. Ultimately, she wants concertgoers to see her many sides from traditionally deejay style to her heartstring‐pulling sensual side. Full tour dates listed below.

More about QUEEN IFRICA
Born Ventrice Morgan, she began her career in 1995 after shining at a local talent contest in her hometown of Montego Bay, Jamaica. This eye‐opening experience eventually led to major stage performances in her country including the esteemed Reggae Sumfest as well as a union with Tony Rebel’s Flames Crew in 1998. With roots firmly secured in the Rastafarian faith, she blossomed as one of the top cultural artists in reggae swarming the airwaves with hits like “Randy”, “Jus my Brethren”, “Below the Waist” and stealing the stages at major festivals and shows around the world (Summer Jam in Germany, Sierra Nevada World Music Festival, Bob Marley Festival, Reggae on the River in California and Reggae Sundance Festival in Holland). Despite her hectic schedule, Ifrica is involved in several youth outreach programs in Jamaica’s inner‐city counseling abuse victims and other disadvantaged individuals.

Click Here For Tour Dates

Busy Signal & Red Label Wine continue a winning collaboration

2009-11-24T17:31:00.002-05:00

LIGHTS, CAMERA… SWAGGA!
Busy Signal & Red Label Wine continue a winning collaboration

J. Wray and Nephew is once again sending the Signal that it will continue to lead the way in groundbreaking television commercials as it promotes its popular Red Label Wine brand.

For the second year running, top dancehall artiste Busy Signal has been signed to endorse the brand - a real coup for the marketers. One of the hottest dancehall properties around, Busy’s street “cred”, his sense of style and of course his undeniable talent create the perfect synergy with the brand that continues its strong association with the latest trends in pop culture.

Producer/Director of the commercial, Delano Forbes of Phase Three Productions solicited the services of leading Video Director Brian St. Juste of Time Code Productions creating a powerhouse team that combines high standards of creative and technical expertise and is further bolstered by Director of Photography Chris Browne, a creative heavy as well.

An integral part of the commercial is the Jingle which was written and performed by Busy and produced by hot, young producer Shane Brown of Jukebox Productions who is also Busy’s Manager.

According to Romaro Samuels, Red Label Wine’s brand manager, “Red Label Wine has always been associated with the best of dancehall. And it’s difficult to speak about the best in current dancehall without mention of Busy.” Having Busy on board for a second consecutive year does pose a challenge to sound different, to look different, but we have stepped up to the plate and outdone ourselves”. Back for his sophomore year, Busy takes to the screen and takes swag to another level, in his Carlton Brown custom made suit – looking more like Mr. Reanno Gordon than Busy Signal.

This year’s theme is “RED SWAGGA”, and showcases the natural vibe and individualistic style of the dancehall patron. Ask Busy to describe Red Swagger and the 26-year old offers that “Red Swagga doesn’t necessarily have to do with a person’s look or style. Red Swagger is a confidence about yourself and the way you carry yourself. It’s an attitude. And you always have a Red Label Wine in your hand ‘cause it helps bring out your flavour.”

Red Swagger is an integrated marketing message that highlights the pulse of Red Label Wine, Jamaica’s first and most successful ready to drink wine - the energy and the thrill of music and dance in the party setting. The campaign features 45 and 30-second television and radio commercials as well as print material.

Now at VP Reggae: Strictly the Best Vols. 40 & 41

2009-11-23T17:22:00.000-05:00

The latest sounds in Jamaican reggae!
Featuring the latest hits from
Mavado, Busy Signal, Beres Hammond, Etana, Bitty McLean and more…

Click Sign up to VPRECORDS.com and you Can listen free to full tracks before You Buy!
Get it now at VPREGGAE.com

News Release: Vybz Kartel Ready for Peaceful Solution to Gaza/Gully School Violence

2009-11-23T13:37:00.003-05:00

THE 'TEACHA' SAYS PEACE TALKS BELONG IN SCHOOLS

VYBZ KARTEL IS READY TO END GAZA/GULLY VIOLENCE AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer

St. Catherine, JA (Ms. RAINE INC.): Despite reports that Dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel has rejected rival deejay Mavado's olive branch by turning down his birthday party invitation, Kartel maintains that he is willing to put aside differences with his arch-musical-rival to call for an end to violence associated with the Gaza/Gully feud, particularly among high school students.

Both artists have been slammed by the local media, as reports of increasing violence at local schools between fans of the Portmore, or 'Gaza,' Empire led by Vybz Kartel and the Gully Squad led by Mavado continue to flood the news, causing even the government to be concerned about mounting social tensions stemming from the feud between the two entertainers.
On Friday, the Jamaica Star newspaper reported that Mavado was calling for an end to the Gaza/Gully war by inviting Vybz Kartel to attend his birthday party at Temple Hall on December 5th. The paper stated that Mavado's management said they wanted to publicly invite Kartel to make peace once and for all, as a show of unity to the nation.

"I will not be able to attend (Mavado's event) due to previously planned engagements," states Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer invitation, citing commitments to Usain Bolt's 9.58 SuperParty and an event in Linstead on the same night. "What I think is the best way to solidify in the minds of the children that this Gaza/Gully feud is merely music, is not to accommodate a historic 'burning of the peace pipe' at a commercial, adult oriented event, but rather in the high schools where bouts of violence due to our feuding are most prominent," states Kartel "When a date for that is set, I will readily appear."

Vybz Kartel has repeatedly spoken out against violence within the island's schools, condemning the sale of 'Gaza buttons' and other paraphernalia depicting violent images of the feud in Corporate Area Schools earlier this month. This year, Vybz Kartel has released the singles "Teenage Pregnancy" with Portmore Empire artist Gaza Kim, and the "Schooler's Anthem" with Gaza Kim and fellow Empire artist Jah Vinci, bringing awareness to social issues affecting teens and encouraging them to stay in school.

For media inquiries for Vybz Kartel:
Claude Mills, 876-781-4268 | cmillsy@yahoo.com
Ms. RAINE INC., 347-492-3977 | info@msraineinc.com

www.myspace.com/vybzkartel
www.myspace.com/adidjahiemrecords

Etana Invades the UK

2009-11-17T15:54:00.002-05:00

Kingston, Jamaica -- November 17, 2009 --Top Reggae songstress Etana invaded the United Kingdom last week to promote three hot singles from her yet to be titled sophomore release: "August Town," "Free" and "Happy Heart." On her highly anticipated visit, Etana was warmly greeted by fans and leading radio personalities. Just 24 hours after shooting the video for "Free" in Jamaica, Etana landed in UK and jump started an intense radio blitz. Etana's first interview was with none other than the legendary David Rodigan at London's famed Kiss FM, followed by an interview with BBC Radio 4. Etana was provided with the unique opportunity of reaching a very wide audience with her interview on BBC Radio 4, a mostly news-formatted (non-music) station that is considered BBC Radio's flagship. The station was extremely interested in interviewing Etana because of her crossover appeal.

The soulful crooner also had a slew of memorable in-studio interviews with top radio jocks like Robo Ranx and Silver Star of BBC Radio 1xtra and Daddy Ernie of Choice FM. As Etana traveled from town to town, each area claimed a different Etana song that they loved. In addition to commercial radio stations, Etana visited and interviewed with over 20 pirate stations through out the UK. The demand to interview Etana was great, which ensured her UK experience was fully loaded. Much to Etana's credit, fans inundated the airwaves for a chance to talk with her.

"The DJs were so surprised to see me hand delivering my new music," says Etana. "Most of them thought that we were here for a show.....no one believed that we were promoting new singles without having a show."

"The Strong One's" latest singles perfectly display three distinct moods of her musical talent. "Happy Heart" is a gem of a love song and "Free" is an inspirational track, bursting with emotion. Meanwhile, on the other side of the spectrum, "August Town" addresses social issues surrounding Garrison communities. All three tracks are hard hitting and have been embraced in the UK. "We decided to push these three singles because Etana's next album will boast diversity," says Garfield "Chin" Bourne of Irish and Chin. "It will feature the best in Roots, Rock, Reggae and Dubwise. And an array of other music genre will be explored."

Irish and Chin, Etana's management team, has set up a very intense promotional tour to further push Etana's new singles. Promotional efforts include videos for each single and heavy radio, tv and print media blitzes in key Reggae markets. Etana's next stop will be in St. Vincent and surrounding islands, followed by a U.S. run.

Etana's groundbreaking debut Strong One (VP Records) was heralded by critics and fans alike, receiving several noteworthy accolades and awards. Based on the vibes from the latest music, there is no doubt that Etana's follow up effort will elevate her fresh brand of soul Reggae even higher.

VP Artists Beatnick & K-Salaam and Talib Kweli Live in Bklyn on November 22nd

2009-11-10T16:46:00.001-05:00

On Sunday, Nov. 22nd, Beatnick & I will be performing our live set at the "Talib Kweli & Friends" Show in Bklyn, NY @ the Brooklyn Bowl.

Our live set will consist of us bringing our studio equipment on stage and looping sounds live to create music on the spot. Also incorporated in the set will be live turntablism and live instrumentation. This is definitely something new, so you will not want to miss it.

Not to mention, one of the greatest lyricists in the game, Talib Kweli, will be performing. Also in the building will be Skyzoo and Jean Grae. $10 adm. Doors @ 8pm.

Also, check out the recent song that we recorded w/ Talib Kweli, Bun B, & Colin Munroe titled "Don't Die." You can download the song by clicking on the image or link below.

Beatnick & K-Salaam Ft. Bun B, Talib Kweli, & Colin Munroe - "Don't Die"

Showcase Vol. 2 - 12” Disco Mixes

2009-11-05T16:25:00.002-05:00

Original full length mixes of Joe Gibbs classics on CD for
the first time
Tracks include dub versions where available
Special collector’s edition digging deep in the Joe Gibbs
archives with songs from Horace Andy, George Nooks
(Prince Mohammed), Trinity, J.C. Lodge, Culture and more

Showcase Vol. 3 - 12” Disco Mixes

2009-11-05T16:03:00.003-05:00

Original full length mixes of Joe Gibbs classics on CD for
the first time
Tracks include dub versions where available
Special collector’s edition digging deep in the Joe Gibbs
archives with songs from Barry Brown, Freddie McGregor,
Eek-A-Mouse, Trinity, Lui Lepkie and more

Showcase Vol. 1 – 12” Disco Mixes

2009-11-05T15:51:00.003-05:00

Original full length mixes of Joe Gibbs classics on CD for
the first time
Tracks include dub versions where available
Special collector’s edition digging deep in the Joe Gibbs
archives with songs from Barry Brown, Freddie McGregor,
Eek-A-Mouse, Trinity, Lui Lepkie and more

(STB) Strictly the Best Vol. 40

2009-11-05T15:06:00.005-05:00

Focusing on the smoother side of the reggae scene,
Strictly the Best Vol. 40 features 17 new and current
‘singer’s hits’!
The STB series is known for breaking records. History shows
this annual compilation consistently features the new hits
first! And this year is no exception. STB 40 includes new
music from Etana, Gappy Ranks, Hezron and Busy Signal
among others.
Top talent, big hits, distinctive packaging and targeted
marketing make the series a Holiday staple for reggae fans.
Originated in 1993, STB means quality and credibility.
Project set up focuses on core fans and major Caribbean
media outlets nationally

Covers for Reggae Lovers

2009-11-05T14:59:00.002-05:00

Presenting a collection of Reggaefied love songs for music
fans of all kinds; Covers for Reggae Lovers features a range
of musical styles from new and veteran reggae artists.

The album appeals to the full range of reggae music fans
with a focus on the current pop scene
Featuring newly recorded and previously unreleased
renditions of international hits
This collection of certified hit songs highlights the variety
of musical styles influencing contemporary reggae music
and presents some of the most exciting new talent in the
genre

Caribbean Gospel Book 3

2009-11-05T14:52:00.005-05:00

Spirituals and Gospel are at the foundation of reggae
music. The distinctive voices, familiar verses and appealing
rhythms of Caribbean Gospel offer a unique blend and a
satisfying experience for Christian music fans and beyond.
This anointed collection includes recent and classic hits
from the leading Caribbean music ministries.
Writer/performers George Banton, Marvia Providence,
Marlon ‘Bro Paul’ Anderson and Carlene Davis have helped
to grow the genre and represent the best of Caribbean
Gospel today.

(STB) Strictly the Best Vol. 41

2009-11-05T14:32:00.005-05:00

Hear the best of Dancehall reggae today and tomorrow on
Strictly the Best Vol. 41, the latest edition in the annual
compilation series! Bursting with exciting new hits! The
latest breakthrough tracks from Jah Vinci, G Whizz, Ding
Dong & Laden. Plus new hits from the top names in reggae;
Mavado, Mr. Vegas, Busy Signal, Vybz Kartel and Elephant
Man and more.

Sizzla Kalonji on Tour!!

2009-11-05T14:22:00.003-05:00

Sizzla Kalonji and The Fire House Band recently embarked on a ten-week European Tour promoting album, Ghetto Youth-Ology. Already one week into the tour, Sizzla and the crew have performed excellent shows in Rotterdam, Geneva, and Groningen with over thirty more shows to go in Germany, Sweden, Holland, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Italy, and France.

Read More...

"VYBZ KARTEL DOES NOT CONDONE THE SELLING OF GAZA BUTTONS"

2009-11-05T11:43:00.002-05:00

Adidja "Vybz Kartel" Palmer

ST. CATHERINE, JA (Ms. RAINE INC.): In response to current reports of 'Gaza buttons' and paraphernalia depicting the violent images of Dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel and the so-called Gaza/Gully feud being seized from vendors at several Corporate Area schools, Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer issues the following statement:

"Vybz Kartel does not sanction or condone the selling of Gaza buttons with violent images and statements, especially to children and teenagers. We do not own the Gaza name but recognize that unscrupulous and unethical persons may be seeking to profit from the popularity of the Gaza name by engaging in these terrible practices. We urge the relevant authorities to move quickly to protect innocent children from those who would seek to corrupt them.

Vybz Kartel is in the business of music, and through Vybz Rum Limited,the business of alcoholic beverages. We are not involved in the business of merchandising, nor do we benefit from the sale of clothing and other paraphernalia which may bear the Gaza name."

###

For media inquiries for Vybz Kartel:

Claude Mills, 876-781-4268 | cmillsy@yahoo.com

Ms. RAINE INC., 347-492-3977 | info@msraineinc.com

Bob Sinclar "New New New" Feat. Vybrate, Queen Ifrica & Makedah

2009-11-05T11:36:00.000-05:00

Bob Sinclar New New New
Feat. Vybrate, Queen Ifrica & Makedah

IN STORES NOW: THE NEW ALBUM BY MORGAN HERITAGE THE JOURNEY THUS FAR

2009-10-28T18:21:00.005-04:00

Since their 1997 VP Records debut Protect Us Jah, Morgan Heritage has shined as one of reggae’s best bands. The accomplishments of the group and individual members are formidable; as songwriters, producers and a touring band. This family of talented performers has released eight studio and two live albums which has extended the audience and definition of Reggae. This finely honed modern roots identity, which has made Morgan Heritage one of Reggae’s most enduringly successful acts, is showcased throughout this greatest hits CD/DVD compilation, The Journey Thus Far in stores October 27th. This comprehensive disc features the group’s finest recordings to date, plus two previously unreleased tracks. It also features concert footage of The Morgans performing in Senegal and Gambia plus nine of the group’s most popular videos.

BUY NOW

VP Co - Founder Miss Pat Honored

2009-10-26T15:14:00.001-04:00

On Sunday, October 18^th Miss Pat was honored for her outstanding contribution to community, arts, and culture by the State of New York and A Fe We Culture Inc., a community-based non-profit organization in the Bronx. Below is Miss Pat and family accepting her award.

Art in the Heart of Kingston

2009-10-26T14:54:00.000-04:00

Website: SpanishCourtHotel.com

Spanish Court Hotel
1. St. Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica W.I.
876.926.0000
Price quoted in Jamaican Currency.
Copyright 2009 Spanish Court Hotel [Kingston, Jamaica W.I.]. All Rights Reserved.
..................................................................................................................