L3 Magazine - November ft. Jah Cure - 2015

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Rocky DawuniBranches of

The Same Tree

Ronald BarriereOne Time Music Productions

Shaggy and OMIGRAMMY 2016 Favorites

Fall Inca FashionThe Sound Effects

of Music

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Pan-A-Maniavia CARIBANA ™

Jah CureThe Healing of The Nations

L3 Magazine | November | 2015 | No. 37

CEO and Editor-in-ChiefNatasha Von Castle – [email protected]

Chief Creative OfficerL3 Group of Companies – [email protected]

Marketing DirectorRohan Beckford – [email protected]

Operations and Distribution DirectorChristopher Miller - [email protected]

PublisherL3 Group of Companies

Director of Caribbean PromotionsKeisha Pinnock

Contributing Editor and Caribbean Affairs EditorTricia ‘ZJ Sparks’ Spence

Contributing Editor and Music EditorTre Carn

Travel EditorStacia Von Castle

Music Review EditorJennifer Menster

Senior WritersSong River | Kay Cunningham | Marcus Weller | Joah Baston | Zakada Milton

Contributing Writers

Dr. Cheryl Hill | Portia Clarke | Mimi Mamichula | Ayeola George | Zakada Milton | Rico Vibes | Andre Gomez | Ali Motamed Pia Jordine | Fidel Lloyd | Gelina aka Baby G – UK Correspondent | Michelle Parker | April Stanford | David Peters

Contributing Writer and InternDeidre Carrington

L3 Magazine | November, 2015 ft. Jah Cure | Page 03

Editor’s Heart...

It feels so good to be back! Hard to believe we’ve been away for 6 months (where did the time go), and even harder to believe some of the opportuni-ties that came to the team. Hard work pays off!

I won’t bore you with the details of who’s doing what with whom, but I will say that this past sum-mer we participated in 3 major music festivals, attended Canada’s most coveted music awards show, covered the Pan Am Games, hit some tour stops with Aerosmith, launched an album, devel-oped new talents and started major marketing campaigns with 2 international brands. Not too bad (though this is only some of what we did)!

Our absence from the Caribbean-Urban landscape was really not absence; we just participated in the goings-on from a different angle. If you follow us on Social Media, namely Twitter and Instagram (@L3Magazine), you know we’ve covered events and kept the community updated. Our numbers climbed steadily as we continued to give support to diverse voices and we’re very proud of that!

Moving forward, you can expect the same great quality of entertainment information delivered monthly, and some newer and fresher ways to recap the months’ events. We hope you missed us as much as we missed you, and we also hope to hear your feedback! Cheers!

Let me know your thoughts >>> @NatashaVonC

http://twitter.com/NatashaVonC


November2015 | Volume 37 | Number 3

FeaturesPg. 33 Jah CureBy: Natasha Von CastleJah Cure is known around the world for his mu-sic which, true to his name provides healing for so many. His new album The Cure doesn’t disappoint. His remarkable journey making his newest studio album as executive producer and artist.

Pg. 47 Rocky DawuniBy: Song RiverRocky Dawuni’s rise to musical and philanthropic fame is no surprise if you know and understand his roots in Ghana. Born on a Military base and strong-ly influenced by Mother and Father, music opened the door for this artist to become a world Ambassa-dor.

Pg. 65 Ronald BarriereBy: Jennifer MensterFor producers and creators of music, the music mak-ing process is fluid and doesn’t have a set pattern. for Ronald Barriere and his team at One Time Music Productions, the music making process has a spe-cific routine, and each time it’s followed, great music flows. How do they do it?!

Pg. 17 And the GRAMMY goes to?! We explore the music of Shaggy and OMI and tell you which catego-ries they should enter for the 2016 Awards season!

On The Cover Jah Cure on the cover shot through the lens of Christian Bordey for VP Records and Iyah Cure Productions.

Regulars

81 Inca Fashion for Fall and WinterBy: Kay Cunningham

87 Technology Watch: Reiko Wireless Wholesale Wireless FashionsBy: Marcus Weller

15 There is scientific proof as to why the music you listen to sounds so good.By: Zakada Milton

85 If this mixed drink doesn’t get your soiree started the right way, nothing will.By: Andre Gomez

87 Fashion and Beauty Editor Kay Cunningham treats us to the unique look of Inca Fashion and makeup to compliment the look.

29 We lost one of the best upcoming Rappers, Shane Redway. Our tribute to yhe young soldier.

79 Centrefold Stewella Daville is not just for print, she’s definitely femme fatale on the runway too! Her look, her style - defined.

45 Our DJ on the world map is none other than Irie Dole from Hawaii. Why do we like him so much and what makes him so effective. Find out!

59 Looking for the hottest new music releases? We’ve got you covered with top selling artists such as Gyptian, Kranium, and Iba Mahr. We even update you on the newest riddim compilations.

L3Publicity

[email protected]

Press Release | Music Distribution Marketing Campaigns

L3Moving Your C ontent Forward!

LIFE...

Off and SpinningThe Vinyl Comeback! Source: Neilsen

First it was 8-track tapes, then cassettes, then compact discs and now, it’s digital. And for a long time, it looked like digital auditory advancements would ultimately kill off vinyl–perhaps the most potent, transcendent and game-changing form of music content discovery to date.

But because of continued demand from music aficionados who relish the long-form album, as well as a groundswell surrounding Record Store Day, vinyl remains a viable way for music fans to listen to both new and classic albums.

In fact, sales of vinyl are actually increasing at a rapid clip. According to Nielsen, vinyl album sales in the U.S. have grown a whopping 260% since 2009.

And the steady increase in unit growth is showing no signs of, well, skipping. Last year, vinyl unit sales totaled 9.2 million, up from 6.1 million in 2013. And album sales between January and March of this year were 53% higher than during the comparable period last year, driven by a 66% increase in catalog album sales (released at least 18 months prior) during the same period.

But it’s not just the classic rock gods who are seeing vinyl sales lifts. Sales of current releases on vinyl are up 37% in the first three months of this year as well.

So what’s the hot seller on vinyl? In looking at LP sales since 2010, we see a diverse mix of both catalog and new vinyl offerings, but one thing stands out among the top-selling artists: there’s something in the mix for everyone.


Why Does Music Sound So Sweet?By: Zakada Milton

There is a reason why music sounds so sweet to our ears and the reasoning is found in the vibration emitted from sound, or the musical notes that we hear.

Scientists have studied and discovered that a sound that sounds terrible to the ear, sounds that way because every combination of notes in music is defined by ratios. If the ratio is off, the listener knows that something is ‘wrong’ and doesn’t want to hear any more of that sound. Music that has the right ratio, is more appealing, causing people to want to hear more.

A good example to illustrate the point of a sound we don’t like to hear is the sound a Police car makes when the officer is pulling you over. The sound of the alarm (combined with the lights), shocks the human senses and alerts a person that there is something wrong – there is an incorrect ratio in sound and an inharmonious vibration to the alarm sound. On the other hand, when we hear a song that is made up of notes from (for example) the ‘C’ scale, we tend to want to hum along because the vibration resonates pleasantly with us. To be technical, a perfect 5th is a frequency ratio of 3:2, and a perfect 4th is 4:3. This rule under-pins the making of a simple song to an elaborate symphony. It is the basis of music which can be heard in Reggae routinely.

Dr. Judy Edworthy from Plymouth University has studied the psychological effects of sound on people. In the context of Reggae and Dancehall, though the good doctor did not site these genres specifically, she says that a collection of notes that do not contain the right ratio, has a disturbing effect on people, whereas, music with the right ratio has a calming and even uplifting effect on people. Reggae and Dancehall is made with notes with the right ratio.

A few classic chunes with the right ratio’s includes Bob Marley’s “No Woman No Cry,” Beenie Man’s “Romie,” Shaggy’s “It Wasn’t Me” and OMI’s “Cheerleader!”


And the GRAMMY™ Goes To…?!By: Marcus Weller

I know we are really early in starting the conversation about the GRAMMY’s, but when you’re a music maker, the conversation is never too early or too late!

A passionate group of people who think about the GRAMMY’s all the time are Reggae artists and musicians. Acknowledgement on this level means more than a lot, as we’re sure it does to all musicians, but this group in particular.

As the Best Reggae Album category is always hotly contested and one of the most difficult to gain entry to, we predict that Shaggy (who has been shut out of this category in the past) will do well in the Best Pop Duo / Group Performance category for “I Need Your Love” featuring Mohombi, Faydee, & Costi.

In the Best Pop Solo Performance category, OMI will kick up a storm for “Cheerleader,” and the Felix Jaehn Remix will also fair well in the Best Remixed Category – make that 2 for OMI.

So far our accuracy rate is 100 percent. Let’s see if that continues at the 58th annual GRAMMY Awards being held on Monday February 15th, 2015 on CBS!


Numbers We Love!

4The number of weeks Jah Cure stayed on the Billboard Reggae chart for his 2015 top selling album “The Cure!’

The date in October that Kranium released his debut EP Rumors.

16

2020The name of Busy Signal’s Foundation created to help the people of the St. Ann’s region of Jamaica.

The number of fans Dancehall Icon Demarco has on Twitter.

71,3001,221,686 The number of times Gyptian’s hit single “All On Me” played on YouTube.


North America’s #1Caribbean-Urban Publication

www.L3Magazine.com

http://www.L3Magazine.com

North America’s #1Caribbean-Urban Publication

www.L3Magazine.com

http://www.L3Magazine.com

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Jay Fletcher is The Next Drake?Contributed

Everyone is on the lookout for the next Drake, and some say that Jaylin Fletcher is that prodigy!

Already having appeared on the Nick Jr. Network and on several TV shows, it is clear that Jay and the camera and the audience have a ‘thing’ going on! The Gap, The Children’s Place, H&M, RUUM, Target and Toys R Us are just a few of the brands who have enjoyed Jay’s look as a part of their advertising campaigns. Not restricted to television and print, Jay has also made appearances on the runway.

As the young one grows, music is playing an increasing role in his life. He has begun to sing and perform on stage, and has appeared in the DVD Hip Hop 4 Health choreographed by celebrity choreographer Brice D. Vick.


Introducing Miss Maya Blu Contributed

And just like that, Maya Blu is on our doorstep, and she’s brought the “Slow Dance” with her and audiences in the UK and around the world is loving what they hear!

Now wait! Before you think that Miss Maya is a new voice on the scene, let’s just clear that myth by sharing that Maya has written and produced for some of the greats including Bev-erly Knight, Damage, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Artful Dodger and Liberty X. We just had to name drop! Now that you know where she’s coming from, you understand why Maya gets attention immediately and her song “Slow Dance” kicks open the door!

The Ska inspired, Reggae doo wop sounding track is so true to her roots which reflects being raised in a Jamaican household with parents of the ‘windrush era.’ Early influences include Reggae, Gospel, Soul and Jazz. Her single, which combines her influences is being described as Ska meets Soul with an added celebration of Women and Womanhood. Not too bad!

When asked about her love for music and why she writes as much as she does, Maya replied “I love writing songs and collaborating with artists. It’s very different for myself. Writing for me is a time for my voice to come through and tell my own stories. I’ve created Maya Blu as a clear distinction between Michelle Escoffery, the songwriter and collaborator, and Maya Blu the performing artist. Michelle is about creating for other people. Maya is about Maya and being honest in my music … as honest as I possibly can!”

Honest she is, especially with her single “Slow Dance.” If you haven’t heard this sexy track, log on to www.SoundCloud.com/Maya-Blu-Music and give it a spin.

Connect with Maya via Twitter >>> @MissMayaBluL3 Magazine | November, 2015 ft. Jah Cure | Page 27

http://www.SoundCloud.com/Maya-Blu-Music

http://www.twitter.com/MissMayaBlu

Shane Redway...From: Team L3

Every now and again, you meet an energy in human form that leaves a lifelong footprint in your consciousness. That person for us was Shane Redway.

We met Redway when he was just beginning his career. He recorded the song “Facebook Broads” and asked Team L3 for an endorsement. It was not hard to do as the song was so cleverly written, and the beat was catchy, and of course Redway’s charm and charisma came shining through. He had the recipe for success which was just a matter of time for the world to see.

Though L3 did not move predominantly in Hip Hop circles, we kept our eye on Redway be-cause we knew what the future held – we thought we knew. We were wrong.

It has been 3 months since his passing, and we have not stopped crying. Redway and Editor-in-Chief Natasha Von Castle have reasoned a few times and Natasha always reported that he was a remarkable young man. Foremost on his mind (at that time), was his Mom and the closeness of their relationship. Second was music, and third were girls. When he spoke, he spoke directly to you and advocated that you believe in you as much as you believe in him. He really understood how energy works.

It’s hard for us to say rest in peace to Redway. We don’t want to accept the fact that he’s gone. What we really want to do is ask God why he had to take Redway from us. What we want to do is travel back in time and ask that Redway not leave downtown Toronto when he did; we want to prevent him from getting in that car, we want to prevent that crash from happening.


To all of Redway’s family and friends, we understand your grief. we understand your pain. We will never have another Shane Redway.Shane, we know you’re looking down on us from heaven, and just know friend that we miss you and love you, and never, ever will we forget you. The initials SR are tattooed on all of our hearts….

LYRICS...

LYRICS...

Jah Cure Delivers The CureBy: Natasha Von CastlePhotography: Christian Bordey

JC


To bear the title of the one who cures is not easy. The nature of the ailment is not defined, yet still as the one who cures, one must be able to diagnose the problem, and issue an immediate remedy. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you can hurt a person’s life. If you know what you’re doing, you can and will heal the world.

In walks Jah Cure … Reggae’s healer of the world.

From the time he opened his mouth to sing, we (Reggae lovers around the world), knew that he was a special child – a special energy here on earth.

Twists and turns in life have taken him on several journeys, and through it all, we’ve been right there with him, the recipients of the Blessed Cure!

NVC: The world has waited for a new album from you, and it’s been delivered. It is definitely the Cure! Of the many ills we have in society, what would you say your album, The Cure, cures?!

JC: Well … people all over the world are facing so many hardships. In one place, a person doesn’t have water, in another place, they don’t have electricity and in another, they are experiencing war. Even thought that is happening to people, the one thing they have is music. My music is meant to uplift in their difficult times, and to agree with them in their happy times. My music is meant to be there for them and with them no matter what is going on, but definitely offer a cure when times require a form of medication.

Music is beautiful and a very powerful medium. Music is want to heal their spirit; these are trying times and we all need it.

NVC: Not only has your music been a ‘cure’ for people, it has brought love and light, and acts as a book marks to special occasions in people’s lives! Tell us about your rela tionship with pen and paper and your ability to write feelings of the heart!

JC: As you say, I sit down with pen and paper, but really I sit down and work with my heart. Some of the greatest writers out there have never gone to the studio with a notebook and a pen. They go in with their heart.

I take matters from my heart, things that I’ve seen around me, or things that people


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have talked to me about, and it dwells in my heart. When I get to the studio, it comes out in songs. I feel the vibration and the energy of what’s going on at the moment and that’s what leads to the melody and the development of the lyrics. So I write from my heart, but as you say, I write with pen and paper (smiles).

NVC: So when people hear the song, as an example “That Girl,” they’re really reading the pages of your heart?!

JC: Yes! When a man sees ‘that girl,’ he doesn’t need a pen and paper to tell you or tell the world he’s found ‘his girl!’ All he needs to do is call you on the phone and tell you the story. You don’t need to read it to know it and understand that story. It’s the same with the music I make!

NVC: Some of the producers you’ve worked with in this album include Christopher “Sketch” Carey, Clive Hunt, Llmar “Riff Raff” Brown, Justin “Jus Bus” Nation and Trevor “Baby G” Washington each of which are masters in their own right, and some of which you’ve worked with before. Is there a certain ‘taking for granted’ in the creative process as in you know that you and X producer are going to create another hit record?

JC: No, no it doesn’t work like that! There are some producers that I’m working with for the first time, and I want a new collaboration and a new sound. I embrace the new. ‘Sketch’ was new to me who was introduced to me and I decided to work with him. Clive and I have worked with before and was happy to include him on this album. I worked with Jus Bus before on other projects, and wanted to bring him in on this new album, but there was no ‘taking for granted’ that I would have a hit or hits. I put to gether the best team for the project to fir the best songs for my best fans. As much as the album is about the fans, it’s also about bringing some new producers to the world and giving them exposure and highlighting some of the legends at the same time. They’re still talented and have a lot to teach.

NVC: I applaud that. You really don’t have to share the limelight or give anybody an oppor tunity – you could stick to what you know.

JC: Yes but I want the project to be interesting, and I want the producers to get some glory too. When times like these come around, an interview, I want to explain this side


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of the album so people get more than just the music, they get the people behind the music and the sound.

I co-produced the album; I made sure that I covered all the costs from my company so that everything would be to my liking, and so that we wouldn’t have any interference from anyone outside of this project. I created an environment where they had the freedom to do what they do. All songs were produced from scratch. We sprinkled gold dust on all the tracks!

NVC: “I Surrender” sounds like it may have been written at the river when you were washing off your stress. How accurate a description is that, and was there any fear in ‘surren dering’ and leaving yourself vulnerable?

JC: Me and my friends were talking about my life, and I said ‘I’ve paid my dues times two.’ Jah Cure had to walk the red line 4 extra times, and more than other people because of my past. So it’s harder for me sometimes – in the system and other ways. I’ve paid my dues double but I know I’m working overtime, and what else do you want me to do?

There are some people who are naturally badmind, but the point is that I only surren der to Jah. He is the only one. I leave everything to Jah, and he’s shown me his pro tection every time.

NVC: “Show Love” is another stand out track because your focus is on the treatment of your Queen, but not just from a ‘the world is watching me perspective,’ but from a ‘this is how I really want to love you’ perspective. Is it the simple things in life that make you, your marriage and your family happy?

JC: (Laughs). Of course! The song “Show Love” is exactly how we show love. This is the maximum love which cannot be bought. You can’t get it from a store so how do you show that special person Love? When you love your Queen, you must know what I mean!

NVC: Everyone is excited about the album. DJ Norie from Power 105.5 FM has been talking about you and your music and album for months, as has Illmatic Sound from Toronto


as have fans who read L3 Magazine! What are you most excited about where this album is concerned?

JC: DJ Norie ah mih Boss! I can’t wait to come to New York and sit down and chill live with Norie and all the fans. It’s something I really look forward to! But to answer your question, I am really excited about this album – honestly and I’ll tell you why! I’ve taken full responsibility for my career, for all my decisions, for this album, for how it looks – I’ve taken responsibility for everything.

There is no losing for me, because there is a joy in my heart to know that I can deliver a good album, and that’s what I’ve done. What I want to accomplish, and what I would love is for this album to be the best album I ever put out in my life. The talent, the producers, everything I am so proud of. I hope the album gets nominated for every award.

I have the machine, VP Records behind me, so it will be available to more people than If I had put it out myself. I just want the album to reach the people, so it can touch the people, so it can cure the people. Yeah.

And one more thing, there is a great fusion on this album. There is Reggae, yes, and there is a fusion, a mix of genres – it’s the kind of music that reaches all people everywhere. I’m pushing, VP Records is pushing, and the fans are pushing too. I should tell you that the next album is right around the corner. The world needs good music, production, sound, arrangement – everything!

NVC: You have the right mix of songs, the right order; the right flow which is easy for Jah Cure the artist to accomplish with producers, but what about Jah Cure the Music executive? Were there any tracks that didn’t make the album that as an executive you would have liked to have included?

JC: Yes of course! There were some songs that we felt were major hits, but felt that they should be on the next album and not on this one. There were so many good songs that we had to put away. Yes we do!

In terms of what I learned as an executive, I learned about budget and what happens when we go over budget. I’m grateful. Thank God I put my hand in it. In going over budget and other lessons too, I learned about the importance of my brand … just like


how Jay Z did and Beres Hammond and Busta Rhymes; I became the CEO of my company and learned now the studio and the boardroom. I have that balance and I know the people, I know the roles and how to bring everything together!

I’ve planted a tree and I’m watching it grow and it feels so good. Halle-Lujah!

NVC: In closing, what advice would you give out readers on Life, Love and Lyrics.

JC: First, make sure what you do is from the heart so you can inspire someone else in their life, next, make sure you live the life you Love and also, love to be love and give love, and those will be your lyrics – those actions!

Connect with Jah Cure via Twitter >>> @TheRealJahCure

http://www.twitter.com/TheRealJahCure


DJ on The World Map Irie DoleHawaii

Irie Dole is a well established DJ, promoter, event host, radio personality and all around Reggae advocate. Weather alone or with Jah Warrior Shelter HI-Fi Sound System, his unique delivery and selection puts him a cut above the average DJ.

After nearly 20 years of service to the California Reggae scene, Irie Dole now resides on Maui where he is a favorite on-air radio voice on Q103. Promoting local music still remains one of his passions, now set on the roots and lovers rock music coming from Hawaii.

Irie Dole has become the preferred performance selector for such artists as Rocker-T, Rankin Scroo, JR Toots, Winstrong and Soulmedic, and has even extended his services to names like Too Short, Spragga Benz, Romain Virgo and Demarco.

As a 9 time Sound Clash champion, talking and relating to large audiences has come natural to him. His recent string of event MCing includes Reggae On The River, The Sierra Nevada World Music Festival, Monterey Bay Reggae Festival as well as shows from J-Boog, Katchafire, Tarrus Riley and Barrington Levy.

You can hear Irie Dole 7 nights a week 7-11pm on Q103 (www.Q103maui.com)Follow him on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @iriedole

http://www.Q103maui.com

http://www.twitter.com/iriedole

DJ Irie DolePhotography By: Lee Abel


The Branches of Rocky Duwani’s TreeBy: Song River

RD


We are all branches from the same tree, and musically, there is no one to make that truth so clear than International Recording artist Rocky Dawuni from Ghana.

His music and his energy reaches a fan base that defies the typical ‘demographic.’ As a matter of fact, his demographic is you and me. Wherever you come from is the music he represents, and when you get right down to it, our roots are all the same.

Here is the remarkable man Rocky Dawuni…

SR: Reading back over your life, you have had quite an adventure. I am looking to ask you to help paint a picture in your own words of your life growing up, and your arrival to where you are now!

RD: It’s been an interesting journey from my birth at Michel Camp, a military base in Ghana and growing up in a sheltered but intense environment. This was during the time when the Ghanaian military was active in various military coups and political uprisings. Music was my first love from an early age and my attraction to various melodies, mostly from radio and records, evolved to a point where I felt I could craft my own songs. I also had the fortitude of growing up in a religiously diverse environment as is the case on bases. Various social groups were represented meaning various Ghana ian ethnicity and tribes, religious faiths from Christianity to Islam to Buddhism to traditional African religion. All these experiences and the discovery of Reggae music helped shape me as an artist and define my world view. By the time I formed my first band in college, I had a clear vision of using my music as a force for good. This is what I am today.

SR: Your father, it would seem, has been a grand influence. Talk a little bit about it.

RD: My father was born a twin and the last born child of the Chief of Bunbon Nayili. He grew up in a traditional royal setting and was one of the most adventurous of his siblings. He left his traditional home and joined the Ghanaian army where he became a cook. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the preferred Chef for the upper echelons of the military base. During his tenure he traveled as part of the UN Peace keeping forces during the Arab Israeli Wars of 1973 and 1978 where he was stationed in Egypt. After his time in the military he returned to his ancestral home where he became the Chief of his people. He was the main influence in my international view


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and to some extent inspired my personal collaborations with UN organizations and peace building initiatives.

SR: Kids today grow up differently in the States, than they did even twenty, thirty, fifty years ago. Has life progressed and changed much over the same course of time from where you come?

RD: Yes, Ghana has changed a lot. Everyday new buildings go up and the road networks get more extensive. The global impact of technology is also evident, as everybody uses cell phones these days, both from the very rural communities to the cities. The electrification projects also changed the social dynamics. We are not immune to the global march towards progress. My major concern is to promote a sustainable model for our progress, not development for development sake. I am also very wary of the slippery slope of technological progress when ethics are sacrificed for moneymaking.

SR: Did the levels of diversity, contain any notable moments of adversity within them, that you yourself witnessed? If there were, how did it affect you?

RD: Yes, there is always the issue of cultural and social confrontations and an underlying challenge to existing paradigms when you embrace diversity. I’ve definitely experi enced this on so many occasions. My belief is that it is a necessary part of the growth process. It helps build a strong sense of character based on compassion, understand ing and patience.

SR: Has it affected your outlook upon humanity? Has it moved you to make personal changes, driven you to challenge yourself?

RD: In terms of my outlook on humanity, it definitely has fostered a deeper awareness of the oneness of all of us. It has made me accept my own shortcomings and recognize the power of forgiveness, both for myself and others. It has also inspired in me a sense that any generation has the potential to rise above its challenges to become true architects of hope. I believe this generation can do that if we are guided by a true sense of international morality.

SR: Think about those moments you’ve been through, as you pause, what have been some of the most significant?


RD: My first experience of Jerusalem will be that moment. I visited The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Wailing Wall and the Dome of the Rock. SR: As you’ve lived, and breathed this journey, the marked influences that you would see and each shift you’ve experienced has added another layer to your insight, how has it all related to who you’ve become, and how does it affect your songwriting?

RD: My experiences have given me unique insights that have gone a long way to enrich my world view. This is definitely apparent in my songwriting style and my music - distilled in snippets of inspiration, rhythm and melody from various cultures and places.

SR: You have worked musically alongside some of the greatest humanitarians, and philanthropist known. Talk a little about some of them you’ve been involved with, and the objectives you were exploring.

RD: I had the honor of performing with Stevie Wonder at the Hollywood Bowl and collaborating with Bono on a Playing For Change project which builds music schools around the world. I am also an Ambassador for the United Nations Foundation Global Alliance For Cleancookstoves alongside Julia Roberts and Chef Jose Andres to bring attention to the importance of clean cook-stoves and its health impact. I’ve been involved in various causes that in the long run help to strengthen communities and aid development.

SR: If you were to use a “title” to encapsulate who you are, you could choose from so many. Is your music driven to be political, cultural, societal, to tell a point of view, to help, or assist... is there any element that isn’t touched by what has touched you?

RD: I think the term “Global Citizen” will be fitting for me as I am so interested in explor ing various cultures. My music is just an expression of my personal truths. My hope is that in exploring those dimensions I also serve as a positive catalyst for others to shine their light.

SR: Let’s move from education to, Today- describe your political viewpoints, and can they be or how would you implement them to help this world maybe be a little more at peace with itself, and others?


RD: Well I don’t claim to be any sort of politician. My viewpoints are humanitarian. My intention is to be an instrument of hope and an apostle of peace. I believe in using my voice as a means to inspire people to speak truth to power and advocate for others what they desire for themselves. There are so many challenges today and mere legislation and treaties cannot guarantee peace if there is no fundamental shift in the hearts of people to all uphold true justice. That is the space where I operate with my music.

SR: Moving from the heavier elements... let’s talk a little bit more about your music. As I understand there are six albums, correct? Talk a bit about them musically.

RD: My albums are “The Movement ,” “Crusade,” “Awakening,” “ Book of Changes,” “Hymns For the Rebel Soul,” and the new “Branches of the Same Tree.” All the albums have correlated with my growth as an artist. They started out leaning a lot on Reggae rhythms to an embrace of a more global and eclectic sound while perfecting my own personal “Afro Roots” sound. One thing that ties them all together, are the positive themes.

SR: Is the recording label, Cumbancha, your venture? Talk about the label, and its influences and are there others on it?

RD: Cumbancha is the label releasing my new album. The CEO, Jacob Edgar is on a mission to present the best of global music. The label has artistes like Idan Raichel, Joe Driscoll and Sekou Kouyate, Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars, Daby Toure, among many wonderful global artistes.

SR: The release of, Branches of the Same Tree, speaks from the heart. What to Rocky is the tree and how deeply do the roots of that tree represent all of who you are?

RD: On a personal level the tree represents life. The branches are the everyday affirmation of love, gratitude, goodwill and pursuit of happiness. The roots are the wellsprings of purpose and faith that nourishes my soul.

SR: If you would talk a little about each track on the new album. As well, why did you choose “African Thriller” to be the first to be released, and a video. Are you pleased with its interpretation? How much influence did you have over the making of the video?


RD: African Thriller was the first single because it is a song of celebration. The song also represented a unique fusion of styles, namely funk, dance, afrobeat and Reggae. It is a true representation of my “Afro Roots” sound so I felt it was the best way to set the album tone. In terms of the video I will give lots of the credit to my friend and visionary director Glen Wilson, who came up with amazing concepts to complement my musical vision. The fantastic talents of our choreographer Kara Mack, producers Cary Sullivan and Kelley Lee as well as the incredible dancers, family and friends made everything come together to realize the video.

SR: You don’t strike me to be a person who sits and waits for ‘things’ to come to you. What projects are now in the works with your new album, more music, touring... and most importantly in your charity projects and involvement in various organizations? If you would, please share too how we might become more involved with some of the projects you are working on, so we too can assist others.

RD: For now the new album is out so the main objective is to continue to promote and increase awareness about it. We will be touring and working as hard as we can to bring the message of the music everywhere. I am also currently involved in bringing atten tion to women’s issues and promoting girl child education. My focus is also to help shed light on environmental awareness and our shared responsibility to preserve and protect what sustains human life. I’ve collaborated with Whole Planet Foundation, ONE, UN Foundation, the United Nations Foundation, Global Alliance For Clean cook- stoves, AEGIS Trust, Product (RED), UNFCC and other organizations.

I am also developing a natural product line called “Leaf of Life” to launch a series of natural products and promote a culture of wellness.

SR: The open question seems to be coming from me, my own personal kinship... what is it you really want to tell people? What is it at your core that you want others to see, and know?

RD: It’s simple and we’ve all heard it before. We are truly the ones we’ve been waiting for. Our future is now but we have to own it - together as one!

Connect with Rocky Duwani via Twitter >>> @RockyDawuni


http://www.twitter.com/RockyDawuni

Diamond Sox Delivered by Iba MahrIba Mahr, the Black Youth from Harar has finally delivered his long anticipated album Diamond Sox, and the timing of his delivery couldn’t be better! With his consistent catalog of hit music, fans will have a 15 track album that embodies songs we know, and a few new ones that are sure to be added to the artists’ hit parade.

Produced by Jermaine Edwards and Roland McDermot for Born Rollin Productions, the album will be distributed by VP Records affiliate VPAL. Featuring members of the artists musical family such as legendary saxophonist Dean Fraser, Capleton, Tarrus Riley, Jah Mali, Notis and Jah 9, Iba says that each feature and each song represents “the many moods of Iba Mahr! I have so much to say and each song brings a variety allowing me to express my spirituality, roots, culture, history, love and intimacy. I refer to this one as a good book with interesting chapters to read.” Adding to an im-pressive artistic lineup are contributions from producers Michael Howell, Oneness Records, Con-quering Lion Sound and Conrad Scarlett.

Over the summer of 2015, Iba Mahr tested his sound with audiences in the United States as he toured with fellow Reggae artist Kapaka Pyramid and the Bebble Rockers Band as part of the Young Lions Tour. Playing venues in California, Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, Florida and New York allowed fans to give immediate feedback, and each audience responded to Iba’s music with a resounding ‘gwaan Rasta!’

Iba concluded his summer tour with a performance at the 12th annual Montreal International Reg-gae Festival leaving the fans wanting more. You can catch Iba performing December 31st at the Sound Di Alarm Music Festival in Linstead, St. Catherine, Jamaica!

Get your copy of Iba Mahr’s album Diamond Sox via www.VPRecords.com and all leading digital retail outlets.


Put It All On Gyptian and Lady LeshurrContributed

One thing we know about Gyptian: when it comes to making hit and HOTTT records, he is one of the masters!

This summer the artist released a super HOTTT single called “All On Me” with a sexy music video to match (see Rico Vibes Top 10 Video Chart) that had radio jocks and music video programmers wiggling their hips … oh and fans too! That was the summer, and now we’re here in the Fall season, and remix specialist Diztortion steps in!

Teaming Gyptian with the vocal siren from the UK, Lady Leshurr, “All on Me” goes from 100 to 1,000 in 5 seconds! Equipped with hockey airhorns and a simple drum pattern, this EDM remix has our drinks in the air and bodies moving on the dancefloor. Soca with a pinch of Dancehall and all of Gyptians swagger (and Lady Leshurr too) got this single added to rotation on BBC 1Xtra, Sound Reggae Jam in Africa and Ireland in addition to the most popular channels in the US, Canada and the UK!

This release is on the VP Records label and is one to add to your listening device if you haven’t added it already.


Branches of the Same TreeBy: Song River

In our maturity if we allow it, wisdom will come, and a positive motion to take her by the hand and dance in the light! Rocky Dawuni, delivers his passion for love and life in his sixth album, Branches of the Same Tree. Rocky is well-known in wide circles, as his music has been in numerous televi-sion shows. With notable collaborations Rocky has worked alongside humanitarians and music artists such as Bono, Stevie Wonder, Jason Mraz, and Peter Gabriel. Rocky has a sense of knowing his music is the ointment to soothe international boundaries through a greater understanding of one another.

This artist chooses 11 tracks to move the soul and communicate in the international language of happiness, love and peace.

The combined influences of Bob Marley’s Jamaican Reggae and the Funk and Soul sounds of Amer-ica all combined themselves into the deliverance of Rocky’s sixth album, and the infusion can be felt. Each influence is in the collective, Branches of the Same Tree.

The opening of the album brings Rocky’s musical influences to hand clapping, foot stomping, hip shaking, happy face singing along to - Shine a Light... “on and on.. for the world to see.” Rock Your Soul, is an easy tune and a slow dance under the wide open star filled skies. Dancehall move-ment is the motion in, African Thriller, as a rock’n tempo and horns give sway. Near to the peace loving heart is the song, Children of Abraham, as he calls for the children of Abraham to put their weapons down. A little Soul and Reggae soothe the sound in, We Never Stop. The Sign, plays with the Caribbean sounds. A tender strum gives us a love song, Butterfly. Masterfully, Rocky blends his political/cultural/social/philosophical values with his passionate plea in so much of what he creates. Nairobi, “I love you, Nairobi I love you...” is heart felt. His version of Bob Marley’s, Get up, Stand Up, is delivered with a touch of Rocky’s magic. Rounding out, Branches of the Same Tree, is the diddy played on ukelele, Island Girl. The song that tells his girl, “you are the only one I want.”

Branches of the Same Tree, played on in my mind, long after I put the album away. The message is clear, the culmination of influences over time, and his wise insight into our world makes Rocky Dawuni the master of strength that through love we can bridge all of our differences and be the change through our passionate connection: music.

Tell Rocky what you think via Twitter >>> @RockyDawuni


http://www.twitter.com/RockyDawuni

Ronald Barriere One TimeBy: Jennifer Menster

RB


JM: Very clearly, the music you make is not for ‘making’ sake, but because you are passionate about the world hearing the right voice with the right chords. When did you begin making music?

RB: I began as Selecta in 1991 doing mix tapes, then in 1994 Tiwony, Kinky Eddy, Krichoun Selecta & me built Influence Sound. In 1995 I went to France to study at S.A.E (School of Audio Engineering) then came back to Guadeloupe in 2000 to open One Time Studio. I started by recording artists and producing riddims. Some of the musicians I recorded are Mad Jmc, Syron andFinger. They are local to Guadeloupe and very good. After I developed the sound I wanted, I had to have Jamaican artists on my productions, so I flew to Jamaica where I met Rebel and Cali P. From there, I met more artists and recorded them. It’s been very good ever since.

JM: One of the genres that you make so well, and the world loves, is Reggae. What is it about Reggae that you Love so much?!

RB: Reggae is a way of living; Reggae is music. It is the one genre you can use it to com municate with people. Reggae is like food for the brain; it is the voice of the ghetto. Reggae is Life … it’s the life I want to live!

JM: To date, you have made many riddims. Can you tell us about some of your favorites and why?

RB: Yes, some of my favorite riddims are Pas de Soucis (2008), One Time (2008), No Pwoblem (2010) and the One Time Love (2015). Each project brought joy and its’ own learning experience. All were born in Guadeloupe and carry a piece of me and my energy at the time.

JM: Guadeloupe is a beautiful country, and is where you were born! What are some of the things about Guadeloupe that inspires you to create music? Is it your country, is it dreams; is it travel? What inspires you?

RB: Guadeloupe is a beautiful country! The rivers, seas; nature like the birds and the way people live is what inspires me. It happens to be the country where I was born, but I do see so much beauty in the simple things, and its’ those things that inspire me and


from such beautiful people.

JM: Some say that music is a vibration that starts with the music producer. How would you describe your vibration?

RB: My vibration comes from the artist. Sometimes before we begin recording, we sit outside and just talk. Topics like life: politics, family, nature – everything. It is through that talk that we share our experiences about music; about Reggae, which is Life!

After that reasoning, we go in to town and buy some fruits and coconut water, and see and feel how the people are doing and pick up their vibes. After that is when we go back to the studio; that is when we connect our reasoning (conversation), with the trip to town, and our own spirit together, and create the music we create. It’s a very intimate experience and it happens ‘one time!’

JM: What was the motivation for the One Time Love Riddim?

RB: My motivation was to make a global riddim that the whole world will appreciate. The world needs love, and the world was created by love.

JM: How can fans get in touch with you to give you feedback to your riddim(s)?

RB: They can call us on the phone (+590 690 74 41 84) or email us at [email protected]. Socially they can connect with us on YouTube via onetimestudiofficial or Twitter @onetimestudio. The last way is on Facebook (everyone’s favorite) www.facebook.com/onetimestudio.


http://www.twitter.com/onetimestudio

http://www.facebook.com/onetimestudio

Now Hear ThisNew Music Ready to Load!


Now Hear This New Music Ready to Load!


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L3’s Top Independent Downloads 1. Gyptian ft. Lady Leshurr – All On Me (Diztortion Remix)2. Cham – Jump Off3. Spice – Needle Eye4. Smood Face – That’s What I Like5. Busy Signal – Text Message6. Maya Blu – Slow Dance7. Beenie Man – Anyways 8. Demarco ft. Rhogue – Real Thugs9. Marzville – Thinking Out Loud (Raggamuffin Reggae Remix)10. Jesse Royal – Finally11. Macka B – Never Played a 4512. Kranium – Stamina 13. Chelsea Stewart – Over You14. Dasia – Cheating 15. Ammoye – Woman of the Ghetto16. Tony Roy – Love Overdue (Gregory Isaac Cover)17. Inner Circle ft. Chronixx & Jacob Miller – Tenement Yard18. Stephen Souza – Sleeping Beauty19. Face-T – True Love20. Jah Cure – Made in Californiaylists

http://www.vprecords.com/





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Rico Vibes Top 10Watched Video’s 1. Major Lazer ft. Ellie Goulding & Tarrus Riley – Powerful 2. Gyptian – All On Me 3. Spice – Back Bend 4. Demarco – Puppy Tail 5. Shaggy – I Need Your Love 6. OMI – Cheerleader 7. Destra Garcia – Lucy 8. Busy Signal – Text Message 9. Machel Montano – Like Ah Boss 10. Randy Valentine – Wake The Town *Based on recent YouTube views


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCGfF5fiJOs

Model of the Month: Stewella DavilleBy: Jennifer Menster

From the runway to the pages of L3 Magazine, Model of the Month Stewella Daville is edgy, fierce and chic. Her timeless image comes from the Bronx where she was born and raised, seasoned with elements of the Caribbean via her parents who are originally from Port Anto-nio, Jamaica.

With three plus years in the Fashion industry, Stewella has walked the runway in Paris (Tif-fany McCall – Paris Fashion Week), Brooklyn (Fashion Week Brooklyn), Harlem Fashion Row, Latin Fashion Week and Small Boutique Fashion Week. Some of the designers whose work has sprung to life on Stewella’s body are Glenroy D’Marsh, Adrian Alicia, Bradley Douglas Jor-dan and John Ashford.

If you flip the pages of Fashion Avenue News Magazine, WMDSF, Entrigue, Zele, Indie Art, Bil-lie Blunt, Alpha and France-Antilles Newspaper you are sure to see Stewella’s image urging readers to buy the apparel she is adorned in. This top model is available for Runway, Print, Film and Glamour shoots.

Connect with her via Instagram >>> @iamstewelladaville

Photographed by: Jack PaulusMakeup: Lenny HamiltonDesigner: Norman Josey of Lockdown International


Inca Beauty& Fashion By: Kay Cunningham

One of my last projects in London before heading to the sunny island of Jamaica is what I affectionately call the “Inca” shoot! Working with talented and beautiful models Symara Templemen and Toyin Toni allowed the look of being cool, yet warm flow effortlessly!

For this shoot I used Urban Decay Vice 3 Palette, MAC shadow powder pots, Arbonne Cosmet-ics Skincare, Bobbi Brown Concealer and Foundation Stick Lip Stick. As much as I wanted the makeup to resonate with you, is as much as I want the makeup to compliment the fashion!

“Inca”Model Symara TemplemanPhotographer Karl LakeMakeup & Styling moi Shoot location: Chiswick – Rooftop

1st Model Symara Templeman 2nd Model Toyin ToniPhotographer Karl LakeMakeup & Styling by Kay Cunningham Kantha Spread & Necklace byThe Little Tibet


Inca Beauty& Fashion By: Kay Cunningham

con’d...

“Tibet Spirit” Tibet is nicknamed “the roof of the world” and “the land of snows”.Tibet lies between areas ancient civilisations of China and India. Almost all native historians of the country were Buddhist monks.Tibetan Kantha Spread and Necklace is handmade, the Jewelry is also known as Buddhist jewelry or Himalayan jewelry. It is traditionally large and ornate.

Makeup products used Urban Decay Vice3 PaletteMac shadow powder potsArbonne Cosmetics SkincareBobbi Brown Concealer,Foundation Stick, Lip Stick,


Let’s Toast:Rum & ChocolateCocktail By: Andre Gomez

It’s officially Fall season outside, but that doesn’t stop the warmth of a gathering of family and friends. Whether it be the festivities of the launch of a new product line, a new album or just a chat and chill session with close ones, this recipe for a Rum and Chocolate Cocktail is guaranteed to add the right touch to your occasion.

Ingredients:

35 ml Authentic Caribbean Rum2 tsp Raspberry Puree2 tsp Lychee juice (optional)2 tsp Double cream

Preparation:

Shake the rum liqueur, raspberry puree and lychee juice together in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a chilled glass and gently pour the double cream on top.Garnish with chocolate powder and raspberries.

Enjoy,

Andre!


Phone Protection from Reiko Wireless By: Marcus Weller

Just about everything I do is done on my phone. From conference calls to reviewing new material from artists to maintaining my social media updates, my go to and trusty compan-ion is my phone. For this reason, I need to protect my phone as much as possible. Working with a cracked screen is not ‘working!’

Thanks to the team at Reiko Wireless, smartphone owners have protection which comes in the form of the cases that the Tech accessory outlet sells.

The premium hybrid case for the Galaxy S5 (I opted for the one with the back-flip kickstand) did everything is advertised to do and more. Fitting perfectly around the phone, the case is durable, offers great grip through the ridges, and, most importantly, when I dropped my phone, the screen didn’t crack. Their shockproof technology saved me from having to buy another phone. My wife got a matching Leather Flip Case Wallet (also for the Galaxy S5) that not only hold her phone, but held her 2 essential cards. A quick run to the store means grabbing the phone case, not the purse.

If that’s not enough ladies, the case can be closed, and you can still talk on the phone – hearing clearly and being heard clearly. This is a plus, not to mention its’ lightweight and slim fit make finding it in the purse easy!

Every colour you can think of is sold by Reiko Wireless, and if you need, they will ship to your home or office (extra charges may apply). If you want cases in bulk, the team will fulfill your order. Although I talked about 2 case styles, Reiko offers a wide variety for Samsung, iPhone and Blackberry so guaranteed they have something for you!

Visit them online via www.reikowireless.com

http://www.reikowireless.com


PANAMANIA!PANAMANIA!PANAMANIA!Caribana™ was asked to organize a mini Carnival for athletes participating in the 2015 PanAm Games in Toronto, and they received a ‘MAS’ time! Take a look at the stunning costumes designed by Martin Scott Pascall.

PANAMANIA!PANAMANIA!PANAMANIA!


PANAMANIA!

PANAMANIA!

Reminisce:Aerosmith’s Blue ArmyTour, 2015 By: Song River

This summer, our Senior Writer and Photographer Song River hit the road to take in Aeros-mith on their 2015 Blue Army tour. To say it was amazing is an understatement!

To a sold out arena, Aerosmith’s accumulative 45 years of rock n roll danced, spun, sparkled, twanged, and thumped in unison again and again for their fans. From the opening song, “Draw the Line,” to “Toys in the Attic,” pulling over to Tyler’s ballad from the movie “Arma-geddon’s” theme song, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” stomping out to, “Dude Looks Like a Lady,” and finishing the romp with double encores “Dream On,” and “Sweet Emotion,” the whole show called for a whole carton of lit cigs afterwards.

Set List:

Draw the Line Walk This WayLove in an Elevator Encore:Cryin’ Dream OnLivin’ on the Edge Sweet EmotionMonkey on My Back Toys in the Attic Back in the Saddle Rag Doll Stop Messin’ Around (Fleetwood Mac cover) (Joe Perry on lead vocals)Mama Kin I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing No More No More Dude (Looks Like a Lady)


Documents

L3 Magazine - November ft. Jah Cure - 2015