L3 magazine | march 2013 | no. 019

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AT REBEL SALUTE
AND PROTOJE
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AND MORE!
INFLUENTIAL
WOMEN OF THE
CARIBBEAN
MARCH
2013
|
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F U T U R E S P E C T I V E

THE ROSENBLUM FOUNDATION
AND THE MICHAEL MARGULIES
ARTIST AGENCY PRESENT
THE GROUP SHOW
“FUTURESPECTIVE,”
CURRATED BY KIKI VALDES
HEIKE DEMPSTER
T
he Michael Margulies Artist Agency and Kiki Valdes
announced“Futurespective,”agroupinstallationfocused
on the exciting times in Miami’s art scene. From striving
local talent to a growing impact on the international art
conversation, “Futurespective” encapsulates Miami’s
new era while highlighting significant developments in
the city. The forward-thinking, emerging and mid-career artists
showcased in “Futurespective” offer new, artistic perspectives by
experimenting with contemporary media and exploring different
themes to encourage new discourse.

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The group show featured works by local artists Christopher
Carter, David Marsh, George Sanchez-Calderon, JeanPaul
Mallozzi, Jel Martinez, Johnny Robles, Kiki Valdes and Ruben
Ubiera as well as Argentine artists Nichola Constantino, Con-
stanza Piaggio and Florencia Rodriguez Giles. Each one differs in
practice; however, all share a forward-driven vision based on a
pattern of new discoveries in the Miami art landscape. Curator
and artist Kiki Valdes’ close connection to each member of the
group allows Valdes to mix and match the works, “like a jigsaw
puzzle,” until the vision of “Futurespective” came to life.
Interpreting themes individually, Christopher Carter’s heavy,
powerfulsculptureswithdeeprootsinhistoryandDavidMarsh’s
abstract, visual paintings with layers, materials, techniques
and the place of the painter himself are impactful. George
Sanchez-Calderon’s large-scale projects engage in the modern
condition while JeanPaul Mallozzi adds his distinct paintings of
emotional observation. Jel Martinez puts an urban spin on art
going beyond graffiti with explorations of erasure, removal and
texture.

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Johnny Robles’ work ranges from murals to the juxtaposition of del-
icate black and white renderings with bright colors and site-specific
installations. Kiki Valdes’ expressionist paintings explore the multi-
dimensional complexities of people, religion, American-life, sex, and
superstition. Ruben Ubiera’s Post-Grafism, centered on urban life and
the Diaspora culture of the city via installation and mixed media, adds
to Miami’s present and future representation. Nicola Constantino, Con-
stanza Piaggio and Florencia Rodriguez Giles add views from behind the
lens. Constantino’s photography explores female identity and ques-
tions the ambivalent codes of conduct in modern society. Piaggio uses
visual language to transcend barriers and explore the unknown while
Rodriguez Giles examines transcultural themes such as spirituality.

A R T B A S E L

MARCH 2013 | NO. 019
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Greetings;
The highlight of my February every year is to watch the Grammy’s. As
these awards are the highest honor in music, I like the exposure this institu-
tion gives me in terms of learning about the best in other genres.
This year, the powers that be decided to honor our legend, Bob Marley,
and they got it completely wrong.
They begin the tribute with Bruno Mars performing one of his songs, then
continue to Sting, then bring out Ziggy Marley, then Damian, then call it a
wrap; exactly in that honor. Let me not forget to mention, neither Bruno
Mars nor Sting performed a Bob Marley song.
As I continue….
Other tributes were held that evening, notably, Kelly Clarkson’s tribute to
Carole King in which the starlet performed 2 of Carole’s famous songs. Kelly
didn’t perform her own songs during the tribute, so why did Bruno Mars and
Sting perform theirs? I’ll tell you why. Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich was
looking for a reason to get Bruno Mars to perform at the Grammy’s, and put
together this ‘concept’ to make the artist accept. In other words, Bob Marley,
the global / universal legacy he’s left, was acknowledged because Mr. Ehrlich
needed a ‘concept?!’ Really?
Moving forward, I hope the Grammy’s continue to honor Reggae legends,
and showcase it in their televised prime time production. The correction I
suggest to the Grammy’s is that they not use Reggae as a means of getting
a performance from an artist they really want on the stage. Instead they
should hire people from the Reggae industry who are passionate about the
genre and its genuine inclusion in an awards show that honors the best in
music – all genres of music.
Apart from the huge faux pas of a tribute designed to get Bruno Mars to
perform this year, Ziggy and Jr. Gong showed them how we ‘Set Up Shop!’
As always I welcome your feedback >>> @NatashaVonC

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MARCUS WELLER
INFLUENTIAL WOMEN
OF THE CARIBBEAN
I N F L U E N T I A L W O M E N

The word influential is defined in www.dictionary.com as being a person who
exerts or can exert strong influence. In the Caribbean, we have several women
who define this word.
From Trinidad & Tobago to Barbados to Jamaica, we explore the personalities
of these women, who, coming from different backgrounds are serious leaders in
their own right, and the very women influencing how we view ourselves ….

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One of the Caribbean’s most recognized Fashion designers is Anya Ayoung
Chee. Her designs have been featured in the most prominent fashion magazine
and television show around the world, making her one of the most celebrated
designers.
We know about her fashion in terms of the beautiful pieces that are worn on
the runway by top models, and this month we look at the history that makes
Anya one of the most influential women of the Caribbean.
Born in New York to parents originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Anya called
Trinidad home from the age of two. She is the only daughter of eight children
and recognized her passion for the arts at a young age. She pursued classical
ballet training as well as art and design, studying Graphic and Interior design in
New York and London.
Crowned Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe in 2008 Anya’s eye for detail and
vision for fashion design with Caribbean flair came to the fore when she entered
as a contestant in Season nine of project runway. Winning the prestigious com-
petition, Anya went on to launch her own fashion line called Pilar.
Her commitment for championing the causes of young people is exemplified
as a member of the TallMan Foundation. Founded by her family, Anya is one of
the spokeswomen for the group at the request of the United Nations Association
of Trinidad and Tobago (UNATT).
ANYA AYOUNG CHEE

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She’s raw, she’s truthful and she’s gorgeous! She’s Babbzy, and she’s the Caribbean’s
leading lady in all matters of gossip, news and entertainment.
In less than a year, Carla “Babbzy” Babb’s website www.strictlybabbzy.com has become
the most visited site by the Caribbean-Urban demographic averaging 2 million hits per month
(500,000 per week). Visitors from around the world, namely the Caribbean, Canada the UK,
Indonesia as well as a growing fan base from Africa namely Zambia and Ghana tune in for the
most up to date news about the hottest topics, which includes background spin; Babbzy is
the most trusted source for the raw truth.
Babbzy has been featured as a host and emcee on numerous fetes and events in North
America and the Caribbean.
This Bajan-Canadian female phenomenon is the third most followed female from Barbados
on Twitter (Rihanna is ranked #1, Shontelle Layne #2), is the most requested female host for
events worldwide and is the only female who has a fan base that takes action based on what
she says! With her own Youtube channel, U-Stream channel and Facebook page, her blogs
have become very common in households throughout the world.
Growing up in Toronto under the ruling of 2 Bajan parents, many of the views and experi-
ences Babbzy discusses leverage off of her West Indian heritage. This is what makes her
relatable to so many fans. Having minimal West Indian representation in the media, Babbzy
has managed to tap into an un-touched fan base. Combining comedy and seriousness,
Babbzy touches on topics most don’t want to go near.
Starting her blogging career in October 2009 Babbzy quickly gained popularity among
West Indians in the Caribbean as well as the Diaspora. Her blogging touches on various topics
ranging from the upliftment of women to current events all through the eyes of a “Bajan-
Canadian” as she commonly refers to herself as. In 2013, Babbzy launched an organization
to assist women around the world in building on their dreams and achieving their goals in
business.
CARLA “BABBZY” BABB

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Dr. Marcia Forbes is an influential communications specialist and media
veteran who is known as being the person to successfully transform the Govern-
ment owned Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) into the privately owned
Television Jamaica (TVJ) who is the industry leader in free-to-air broadcasting.
Achieving her goal of efficient management of TVJ, Dr. Forbes went on to
pursue her goal of a Doctorate in Media.
Serving an intense year as Permanent Secretary (referred to as Vice Minister
in some countries) with the Government of Jamaica in the Ministry of Mining
and Telecommunications, and later when it changed, in the Ministry of Energy
and Mining, Ms. Forbes returned to her well-established family business, Phase
Three Productions Ltd.
Melding business with academia, Dr. Forbes multi-faceted nature allowed
her to include writing in her already hectic schedule. Her 2010 book, Music,
Media & Adolescent Sexuality in Jamaica is her first book which explores the
influences of television on adolescents. The book is now recommended text at
the University of the West Indies for Gender Studies as well as communications
studies at CARIMAC.
Her second book, Streaming: Social Media, Mobile Lifestyles analyzes the
manner in which communication technologies, in particular mobile phones and
social media have altered lifestyles, especially among youths.
To learn more about Dr. Marcia Forbes, visit http://www.marciaforbes.com/
DR. MARCIA FORBES

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Kamla Persad-Bissessar is a woman of firsts in the Caribbean and around the world.
As Trinidad and Tobago’s first female Attorney General, and now as the countries first Prime Minister,
Mrs. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, upon taking office made it clear that “the time has come to set new goals
and reach new heights. We want to make Trinidad and Tobago the place we always dreamed it should be.”
Representing the Siparia constituency since 1995, and passionate about Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla is
the seventh Prime Minister whose wealth of political experience includes being the political leader of the
United National Congress and leads the People’s Partnership, a coalition of five parties.
Musically, Kamla says she was most influenced by Bob Marley which was chiefly inspired during her 14
years living in Jamaica in the early 70’s where she was a lecturer and her husband studied medicine at the
Mona Campus.
In a speech given in 2007 dubbed the ‘No Woman No Cry Speech,’ Kamla said “I have often been the lone
woman’s voice in a huge sea of men. That is what I have stood out for in my political career...being the first
woman to do several things. I remember clearly what drove my decisions in those days as I voted for certain
bills, and as I contributed to debates in Parliament and took certain stances in the country. It was the full
and complete knowledge that I was in a rare position...as one of the few female representatives of this
country...it was my duty to assume the natural role of mother when it came to national issues.
In that sea of men who argued and cussed each other...I knew I had to be the rare voice of fairness,
nurturing, caring and love. I knew that my vote was always influenced by the thought of how those policies
or stances would affect the heart, mind and bodies of the country. My maternal instincts made me choose
sometimes not by my head, but my heart. But as any true mother, those instincts were never wrong. And
so, I cared for the people of my constituency, my party and the nation, as a mother. I did it because of the
great love of my country. I am the woman who has awoken and I will never turn back.”
KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR

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A highly sought after Jamaican public intellectual, Sonjah Stanley Niaah is the inaugural
Rhodes Trust Rex Nettleford Fellow in Cultural Studies (2005) and Senior Lecturer in Cultural
Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI) at Mona. With qualifications spanning the dis-
ciplines of Geography, Social Psychology and Cultural Studies, Stanley Niaah has been teaching
and researching Black Atlantic performance geographies, ritual, dance, popular culture and the
sacred, cultural studies theory and Caribbean cultural studies for many years.
She is the author of Dancehall: From Slave Ship to Ghetto (2010, University of Ottawa Press),
and editor of “I’m Broader than Broadway: Caribbean Perspectives on Producing Celebrity’ (Wad-
abagei, Vol. 12: 2, 2009). Having published over twenty articles and book chapters in journals
and edited collections locally, regionally and internationally Stanley Niaah is a leading author on
Jamaican popular culture, and Caribbean Cultural Studies more broadly.
A Jamaican nationalist and Caribbean regionalist at heart, she is involved in efforts to promote
national and regional development through her recent work as Assistant Chief Examiner for the
Caribbean Examination Council advanced proficiency examination in Caribbean Studies, and her
service on the board of the Museums Division of the Institute of Jamaica. She also serves on the
editorial boards of many scholarly publications and holds membership in numerous academic
associations. Dr. Stanley Niaah currently serves as Vice Chair of the international Association for
Cultural Studies for which she coordinated the first conference held in the Southern Hemisphere
at the UWI (2008).
Sonjah Stanley Niaah is also an avid tweeter (@culturedoctor) and has an interest in social
networking which she incorporates into her communication with tertiary and other students.
She is also the mother of two sons and married to Dr. Jalani Niaah.
SONJAH STANLEY NIAAH

30
IBA MAHR AT REBEL SALUTE!--------
ON THE SCENE

PROTOJE ALBUM LAUNCH!
ON THE SCENE

F O O D

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D E S S E R T W I T H T A M U C H A M B O

PLANNING A SPECIAL EVENING
MEANS PLANNING A SPECIAL
MENU WHICH WE HAVE FOR YOU...

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TAMBU CHAMBOTT
L3’S DESSERT MENU
SELECTIONS WITH

PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CAKE
Nonstick spray for baking
2 ¼ unbleached organic pastry flour +2 tablespoons for
sprinkling on chocolate
¾ cups organic sugar
1 cup packed muscavado sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cloves
¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet baking chocolate,
chopped into chunks (1 1/2 cups)
½ cup finely ground flaxseeds
1 cup boiling water
1 1 1/2 pound pumpkin, shredded
3/4 cup grapeseed oil
2 tablespoons raw sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla
Complimentary Beverage:
Freshing Herbal Tea
1 pinch baking soda
2 cups boiling water
6 type of leaves: mint, lemon balm, basil, lemongrass, dill
& strawberry (any desired amount it all depends on how
strong you would like it) Honey to taste
6 cups cool water
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9” round cake
pan with either grapeseed oil or nonstick cooking spray.
In a small bowl, mix all but one ounce of the chocolate
with two tablespoons of flour and toss to coat.
In a large bowl combine remaining flour, organic
sugar, brown sugar, spices, baking powder, baking soda,
and salt.
Mix flax seed meal with boiling water and allow to
sit for 3-4 minutes then beat with a whisk- the mixture
will appear thick and somewhat slimy. This is our egg
substitute.
In another bowl combine pumpkin, grapeseed oil,
vanilla and flax seed mixture. Add pumpkin mixture to
flour mixture; stir until combined. Add chocolate mixture.
Stir until combined. Pour batter into cake pan.
Top with last of the chopped chocolate and sprinkle
with raw sugar.
Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda into a 64-ounce, heat-
proof, glass pitcher. Pour in boiling water, and add your
leaves. Cover, and steep for 15 minutes. Remove leaves,
and discard; stir in honey until dissolved. Pour in cool
water, then refrigerate until cold. Serve with lemon
wedge.

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P
resenters at the 2013 Grammy’s received an extra sweet
treat thanks to international music icon Chaka Khan, and
her new Chakalates chocolates and signature candles!
Chakalates and Khana Sutra candles are available to
the general public online at www.chakakhan.com. Chaka’s sweet
and sexy gourmet chocolate line is a reflection of the legendary
singer, who knows her chocolate. And befitting a chocolate that
bears Chaka’s name, it’s a “sweet thing” for your heart and your
soul. Through this relaunch of her chocolate line, which was previ-
ously sold exclusively in Neiman Marcus stores around the coun-
try, she invites people from around the globe to “eat something
good.” Chakalates are gourmet delights from Chaka’s recipe of
antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, with velvety bass notes. It’s a
quiet storm of flavors and textures, garnered from the four corners
of the world. The health-conscious diva, who recently combatted
diabetes and high blood pressure by losing 75 pounds and main-
taining a healthy lifestyle, lets us know that these 12 sumptuous
candies are not as guilty a pleasure as one might expect. Dark
chocolate, she notes, is good for our hearts and brains, help lower
blood pressure, and, can help control blood sugar. But her choco-
lates are still candy, so indulge in these sweets in moderation, she
advises. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the chocolates
will benefit the Chaka Khan Foundation, which supports women
and children in crisis.
CHAKA KHAN
INTRODUCES
CHAKALATES!
C H A K A L A T E S
CONTRIBUTED BY ELECTRONIC URBAN REPORT

C H A K A L A T E S

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Whether Chaka is in a different country, an unfamiliar hotel, or
a new venue, candles are what make every new and unique place
“home.” The first thing she does when entering her hotel or dressing
room is light a candle to “purify” the space. With this in mind, Khana
Sutra by Chaka Khan was born to soothe the mind, relax the senses,
and center the body. Khana Sutura candles are formulated with natu-
ral soy wax and the highest quality lead-free wicks for long lasting
and lean burning candles. The nature-inspired fragrance of pine is
made with the highest-grade essential oils and natural ingredients,
concentrated perfectly to quickly scent your space without overpow-
ering. Fragrances are compounded with the ultimate combination of
top, middle, and bottom notes to ensure that the “warm throw” (scent
while burning) matches the “cold throw” (scent while cold).
This year, 2013, marks the 40th anniversary of Chaka’s career in
music and entertainment. The year-long celebration will include the
release of a series of new albums, titled the iKhan Project. The first
installment will be released on March 19, 2013, and will coincide with
her 60th birthday celebration. The iKhan Project: Commemorative
Limited Edition will feature her new single, “It’s Not Over” and some
favorite classics. The anniversary celebration will include a US and
international tour and several other surprises.
One of the world’s most gifted and celebrated musicians, with a
rich musical legacy, the songwriter, actor, author, philanthropist,
entrepreneur and activist has influenced generations of recording
artists. She has the rare ability to sing in eight music genres, including
R&B, jazz, pop, rock, gospel, country, classical and dance music. Chaka
is revered by millions of fans as well as her peers for her timeless,
classic and unmatched signature music style and ability. Throughout
her legendary career, Chaka has released 22 albums and her recorded
music has produced over 2,000 catalogue song placements.
With a new svelte look, new music, and a great enthusiasm for
her new and expanding activities in music, philanthropy and entrepre-
neurial ventures, Chaka is enjoying every moment of this celebration
of a lifetime.
C H A K A L A T E S

C H A K A L A T E S

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | JANUARY 2013
44
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B
elow is a case study focusing on Payola. In case you’re not familiar with the term,
“Payola” is the practice of exchanging money (or some other item of value) for radio play
of a song. The practice is illegal under U.S. Law (47 U.S.C. § 317). Payola—in one form or
another—has been going on since pretty much the dawn of radio, and continues to this
day. I wrote about this at length in a much-discussed article on the TuneCore blog.
Arguments vary over whether or not payola should be illegal, or whether or not payola is good
or bad for the business/artist. But what is undeniably true, is that lack of transparency in any
business is correlated to unethical activity.
The question explored in the case, however, presents the competing forces that those in the
music business frequently face: (A) adhere to your core values, and run the risk of reducing your
chances of success; or (B) abandon values/ethics, and do whatever it takes to make it.
I very much look forward to your comments on what you would do if faced with the situation
described in the case study…
GEORGE HOWARD
PAY TO PLAY

P A Y T O P L A Y
Your New Record Label
You are a young music executive who after years of successfully running smaller divisions has
recently been put in charge of a large record label. This label has recently gone through some
changes in ownership, and is now owned by a parent company that is in part owned and financed
by a major investment bank.
As president of this label you maintain a degree of autonomy from your corporate parent, but,
because they provide funding, you are in fact closely tied to them. Your label employs approxi-
mately 40 full-time employees, and has an artist roster of about 15 active artists (i.e. artists who
are touring and releasing records every year or so), and another approximately 300 catalog titles
(records that are distributed to stores but not heavily promoted).
The label has been in existence for nearly 20 years, and has carved a niche for itself by acquir-
ing and exploiting these catalog titles. In fact, the active artists are, in some ways, kept on the
label to bolster catalog sales. This strategy is in alignment with the industry reality that very
few new (i.e. active) artists make money for record labels. In other words, the record label never
recoups the costs invested in these artists.
While this strategy keeps the label from being viewed as a “sexy” type of entity in comparison
to other labels that concentrate on breaking new artists, it has allowed the label to stay in busi-
ness far longer than many of its competitors. Additionally, this business strategy offers a degree
of security for the label’s employees, as well as the artists and estates who entrust their records
to the label.
Adding a New Artist
The new corporate owners of the label have recently begun (strongly) suggesting that the label
should sign some more current acts, specifically one artist who would be just the type of mar-
quee name that would energize the label from both a reputation standpoint and a financial one.
As president of the label, one of your principle duties is A&R (artist & repertoire); it is your job
to find and sign the talent for the label. Given the mandate from your corporate parent to sign
this marquee artist, it is your job to do so. During numerous meetings with the artist and her
manager, you find that this artist had a very successful career as a major label artist. She holds
the record for longest-charting song on an important radio chart. Her three albums have sold
roughly 700,000 copies each. Her videos had been aired frequently on both MTV and VH1.
All of this success, however, occurred five years ago or longer. In the ensuing five years, she
primarily fought with her label over creative issues, and, ultimately, both the artist and the label
agreed to part ways. What this artist wants now, more than anything else, is creative control,
and she is willing to forgo the big budgets offered by major labels in order to make the type of
records she wants.
You explain to her that artistic freedom is the philosophy of the label. You also tell her that
even with her reduced expectations, by virtue of her past successes and the pressures being put
on you by your corporate parents, that this is a big risk for the label, and one that will involve
a budget several times higher than those for other active artists signed to the label. The vast
majority of this budget will go towards attempting to capitalize on her past successes at radio.

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Needed: Radio Play
While your label has consciously never attempted to break an artist at commercial radio, you are well
aware that the costs of attempting to break an album at radio are so high that the risks typically out-
weigh the rewards for a label of this size. For this marquee artist, however, there simply is no other way
to achieve even a fraction of the sales she garnered for her prior records without radio. In fact, radio
play is the only way the vast majority of her fans will know she has a new record out.
Assurances are, therefore, made by the artist that she will deliver a track suitable for radio, and the
label, in turn, promises to invest the money and human resources required to try and achieve signifi-
cant radio airplay. The deal is made. A sizable (relative to your label’s history) advance is paid to the
artist, and a massive budget is allocated for radio play. This artist is the label’s new number one prior-
ity.
As president of the label you must get the staff excited and motivated to work on this new artist’s
behalf. Though a difficult task, it is made somewhat easier by the fact that the employees soon realize
that their livelihood is potentially dependent on the success of this one artist.
While your employees are feeling the pressure from you, you, in turn, are feeling the pressure from
your corporate parent, as they have grown increasingly concerned with the flow of money being
invested…and the radio campaign has not even begun. You begin hiring radio consultants to help
devise the plan that will make or break the record.
The Plan
As the radio team begins to take shape, so too does the strategy. A prominent jean manufacturer has
agreed to give away hundreds of jeans to radio stations who will use them for contests in exchange for
your marquee artist appearing in their ads. This artist will appear at dozens of radio station events (all
travel picked up by the label). There will be various subtle remixes of the single (the song that is pulled
from the album to go to radio), so that stations can have the one that works best for them (again the
label picks up the tab).
A video will be made, in part to send directly to stations so that they may have a visual image of the
song, but also because radio stations want to know, that should a record begin getting airplay, that
a video will be available to be aired and thus drive even more demand for airplay (the label pays for
a video). The label’s sales staff pushes as many records into the marketplace as possible in order to
assure the radio stations that when they play the song their listeners will be able to find the record in
stores (the cost of getting records into stores is huge, and, of course, the label pays for this).
You, as president of the label, approve all of these expenses, and explain/justify them to your corpo-
rate parents. While the dollar figures are exponentially larger for this artist, these costs and this plan
is not radically different from ones you’ve approved in the past. You feel like you are properly setting
the record up.
As the date to bring the record to radio and attempt to get the song “added” to the stations’ playl-
ists approaches, you begin another of your scheduled conference calls with the rest of the radio team.
This team is comprised of the members of your radio staff, who are employees of the label, as well as
five or six consultants hired by the label who have relationships and expertise in the radio format(s)
which you are trying to reach.
P A Y T O P L A Y

Right or Wrong?
After dialing into the conference you realize that it
is only you and the head consultant on the phone.
The head consultant states that the radio campaign
is at the make-or-break stage. That while some sta-
tions are reacting well to the sound of the song and
the other promotional activity taking place, sufficient
numbers of stations are not reacting strongly enough
to cause the record to succeed in a major way; i.e.
succeed in a manner that would result in airplay and
thus sales that would recoup some of your invest-
ment, and allow the artist to succeed.
You listen attentively, and ask what can be done.
She states that certain stations need a push. A mon-
etary push. Very quickly she gives you an address
(no name), and tells you to send twenty-five Ameri-
can Express gift checks in $10,000 intervals to this
address. As you don’t say anything, she continues.
She tells you that these gift checks will be used to
push those stations that are on the edge, over—so
they will begin playing the record. She tells you that
this is done all the time, and that because they’re
AmEx gift checks, they’re untraceable. You tell her
that you’ll get back to her and hang up the phone.
You are now faced with a decision. You know that
payola (the act of paying for a song to be played on
the radio) is illegal. You also know that not only have
your corporate parents mandated that this record
be a success, but that many of your employees have
mortgages and kids, and that the success or failure
of this record will determine whether or not you will
be able to continue paying them. Last, but not least,
you’ve promised the artist that you would do all that
you could to make the record a success, and thus
revitalize her career. Making the record a success is
certainly contingent upon the song being played on
the radio.
What are your ethical obligations in this situation?
What do you do?
Send your email comments to L3Magazine@hot-
mail.com and we’ll forward them to George.
P A Y T O P L A Y

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AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES!
Grab your copy here today!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JULY 2012 51
WANTLOVE
MARCIA GRIFFITHS & TANYA STEPHENS
KIRKLEDOVE RECORDS DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION
AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES!
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MISS MARCH 2013
Photo: Jerome Dupont of Neu Era Photography
Twitter: @imjeromedupont
JASMINE

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
DJs WE LOVE TO HEAR SPIN AND YOUR
EARDRUMS WILL FALL IN LOVE TOO!
OLIVA LEWIS
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SOUND INC.
The Sound Inc Family or just simply Sound Inc is one of the hottest Caribbean mobile DJ
and Sound Systems with expertise in the Caribbean and North American markets!
Hailing from Boston, Sound Inc has been providing music to the biggest events for the
past 20 years. “We are a traditional “DJ Soundsystem” meaning we do in fact own a
complete large scale PA system inclusive of several dozen loudspeakers and multiple
racks of high power amplifiers. When you see Sound Inc. DJ’ing on the road for Boston
Carnival be advised that we own and have constructed the sound” says Diamond Dale
with pride!
In addition to Boston, Sound Inc. has supplied road and party music for a number of the
Caribbean Carnivals in North America including but not limited to Toronto, Connecticut,
New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C and Miami.
Sound Inc. is your complete Carnival Solution!
The Sound Inc Family can be heard on D’ Qway Zay (www.qzradiohd.com) Every Friday
Night from 8pm - 10pm EST and Big City Radio 101.3fm (www.bigcityfm.net) on Satur-
days from 1pm - 3pm EST.
I N T E R N A T I O N A L A F F A I R S

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DOWNLOAD
L3’S
8
14
2
15
9
4
11
3
6
18
19
20
7
10
5 12
1
17
“Wine n Go Dung”
PATEXX
“Superstar”
KING ALI BABA FT.
OCTAYNE
“Baddy”
ALISON HINDS
13
16
“This Morning”
JESSE ROYAL
“Come Shock Out”
BUSY SIGNAL
“Gimme Likkle
One Drop” (New Entry)
TARRUS RILEY
“Got It Forever”
DELLY RANX
“Around the World”
EVII FT. NATEL
“Stripper Pose”
CHAM
“Lawless”
CHAM
“Who Win The War”
SHABBA RANKS
“Can I Have You”
FAZE FT. PATRICE
“Ah So Mih Tan”
KONSHENS
“Stop Sign”
KONSHENS
“Sweetest Thing”
CALI P
“Bad Gyal Bubble”
MICHIE MEE
“The Girl is Mine”
MORGAN HERITAGE
Charts are based on the most active DJ downloads via the L3 Music Distribution service.
“Don’t Give Up”
BUGLE
“Thank You”
JAH CURE
“The Time is Now”
IBA MAHR FT.
JAH MALI

TOP
RIDDIM
SELLERS
2
2
1
1
3
3
5
5
4
4
BIRCHILL RECORDS
THE KING RIDDIM
MAXIMUM SOUND
LEGGO DI RIDDIM
FLIP MONEY RECORDS
RAW CASH RIDDIM
BAMBINO MUSIK &
JUSBUS NATION
GYAL SEASON RIDDIM
TECHNIQUES
ANIMAL INSTINCT RIDDIM
SILLY WALKS DISCOTHEQUE
HONEY POT RIDDIM
DJ SMURF MUSIC
RADIO ACTIVE RIDDIM
DIGENIUS RECORDS
MOVING RIDDIM
UIM RECORDS
JUPITOR RIDDIM
CHIMNEY RECORDS
TROPICAL ESCAPES RIDDIM
HOTTT DANCEHALL RIDDIM
SELLERS IN CANADA
HOTTT REGGAE RIDDIM
SELLERS IN CANADA
Compiled by Jah Chozen from TreaJah Isle Rcords and Tapes

60
CANADIAN
SOCA
TOP
10
CHARTS
TOP 10 SOCA
MUSIC CHART
Compiled by Soca Sweetness
2
1
9
3
5
10
7
6
4
8
NADIA BATSON
“MANAGER”
PATRICE ROBERTS
“BUBBLE”
KERWIN DUBOIS
“BACKAZZ”
FARMER NAPPY
“DRUNK” (PARADISE RIDDIM)
DESTRA
“CALL MY NAME”
BLAXX
“LEH GO”
SKINNY FABULOUS
“MONSTER”
SWAPPI
“CHA-OS”
MACHEL MONTANO
“NO LIE”
BUNJI GARLIN
“DIFFERENTOLOGY”

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FIRE.KYLE
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mcfirekyle
AMERICIAN
TOP 10
RHYTHM INTERNATIONAL’S
MC FIRE KYLE TOP 10 SOCA
Compiled by Rhythm International’s MC Fire Kyle
2
1
9
3
5
10
7
6
4
8
BLAXX
“LEH GO”
BUNJI GARLIN
“DIFFERENTOLOGY”
BENJAI
“FETER”
5 STAR AKIL
“PARTIER”
RAVI B
“PRESCRIPTION”
MACHEL MONTANO HD
“THE FOG”
MACHEL MONTANO HD
& KERWIN DUBOIS
“POSSESSED”
MACHEL MONTANO HD
“FLOAT”
SUPER BLUE
“FANTASTIC FRIDAY”
BUNJI GARLIN
“SAVAGE”
SOCARIFIC
SELECTIONS

62
RICO VIBE’S
TOP
10
CHARTS
2
1
9
3
5 10
7
6
4
8
BUSY SIGNAL
“REGGAE MUSIC AGAIN”
LADY SAW “HEELS ON”
AMMOYE
“RADIO”
KONSHENS FT, DARRIO
“GYAL SIDDUNG”
KAYLA BLISS
“LITERAL LOVE”
TIFA FT. SPICE
“WHY YOU MAD”
TARRUS RILEY
“SORRY IS A SORRY WORD”
ALISON HINDS
“FALUMA MAKELELE”
PROTOJE
“KINGSTON BE WISE”
ELEPHANT MAN FT. KHAGO
“SLAP WEH”
LADY SAW
“HEELS ON”
TOP 10 VIDEO PICKS FOR
MARCH
Compiled by Rico Vibes

NEW
RELEASES
MIND THERAPY RIDDIM BOOST HAR UP REMIX
Konshens Ft. Patrice
ANIMAL INSTINCT RIDDIM
Kurt Riley for Techniques Record
FIRST CAPITAL RIDDIM
Armz House Records
BITING ANTS RIDDIM
Wiletunes
CELEBRATION
So So Def

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T
aking the middle music road is the glittering and shining Sparkling riddim pro-
duced by ZJ Sparks and Zionnoize Freeze Records. Not falling into the Reggae,
Dancehall or Island Pop bracket, the Sparkling riddim stands out for its universal
appeal on the rhythmic level, and for limiting artistic contributions to just three
groups.
Designed for the Ladies listening pleasure and speaking on behalf of the men
in their lives, Leonardo, Laza Morgan and T.O.K make vows, serenade and romance. They
croon us into sweet hush so we can hear every word they say, yet we feel compelled to sing
along with them, especially T.O.K. when they sing “Oh, I’m missing you, tell me why the road
turned” which is an audio ode to the Diva Diana Ross and her forever classic song “Missing
You.”
Included in the package of 3 songs is the instrumental which is beautiful and will make a
perfect backdrop for you and your lover to record your own song!
L3’s rating is 4.0 out of 5
CONTRIBUTED
THE
SPARKLING RIDDIM
SPARKLES

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TIME FOR THE
GYAL SEASON RIDDIM

W
e first got the teaser about the Gyal Season riddim last year
(2012) when Kes the Band released the song “Tuesday on the
Rocks.” When we heard the song, there was immediate excite-
ment. The song was fresh and laid back and encouraged get-
together’s with friends and loved ones. We knew Justin Nation
and Bambino (producers of the riddim) had a hit on their hands
and were expecting more immediately … fast forward to 2013….
Finally, after waiting several excruciating months, the duo released the riddim
and we can officially say it has been worth the wait!
Featuring the best in the business, including Busy Signal, Tanya Stephens and
Spragga Benz, we knew these artists were going to impress us and that they did.
What we didn’t know (well hidden secret) was that Tessanne Chin was also on
the riddim.
This powerhouse vocalist engaged us in her every lyric with her performance
on the song “You Got What I Need” featuring Bambino. This is the kind of music
that makes us want to see her perform live. Another female vocalist to impress
us is Sophia Squire as well as Denyque.
Hands down, we were pleasantly surprised by the delivery of Antigua’s Dras-
tic who song “Think About Me” got everyone on the office singing the punch line
and collectively asking the same question; “who is Drastic.” We liked his vibe so
much, we had to feature him in this month’s edition of the magazine.
A definite crossover and international hit song comes from Etana and features
Busy Signal. “Love, Love, Love” is literally loved by all, and the glow in Etana’s
voice as she sings is just as beautiful as the smile she wears as she sings it. Nice!
Salute to Justin Nation and Bambino for including the pioneer Joe Lickshot
on the “Vintage Concert” version which is a collaboration of all the songs on the
riddim as well as a distinguished spotlight on the voice that marked an era in
Dancehall. This is what sets Justin and Bambino apart from the rest, and this is
why we give them a #Salute!
iTunes link >>>
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/gyal-season-riddim/id594052574
69
CONTRIBUTED

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P
rotoje is in unison; in unison with the taste of his fans, in unison with the music
(which is a vibrational reflection of the artist) and in unison with his words. This
unison shines in the 8 Year Affair.
Giving us music we’ve come to expect, Proto (as he is affectionately called)
draws us in with track 1 “The 8 Year Affair” which is performed against an acous-
tic backdrop with guitar and flute. The artist explains what the 8 year affair is,
and why it is, and our role within that affair. When we say ‘our’ we mean all fans of his music.
On the romantic side, “Hold You Now” epitomizes everything women want from a partner-
ship / commitment / relationship from their men; to be held, not held down. The artist even
goes as far as to describe his love going beyond the mind and body; his love reaches her ev-
ery molecule. Deep. Track 5 “Someone Like You” featuring Tessanne stirs every emotion you
can possibly have while listening to music. Wow! Track 10, “Come My Way,” is the blueprint
by which all male suitors will achieve success with their Ladies.
Select militancy is used to deliver the message in songs like “Who Dem A Program,”
“This is Not a Marijuana Song” and “Reggae Revival” featuring Romain Virgo. Proto un-
derstands that he doesn’t need to ‘beat’ home the point but rather he can ‘music’ home
the point which he does using Word; Sound; Power and the point is well made.
The final track on the album is announced by the sound of royal trumpets, making
way for the royal proclamation from the King who makes “Music From My Heart” and
not for the charts. The only aspect of this album we don’t like is it ends too soon which
we suppose is a good thing. Whenever you have the chance to see Protoje perform live,
do it … it’s unison!
CONTRIBUTED
PROTOJE’S
8 YEAR AFFAIR

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P
roduced by Nature’s Way Entertainment from Jamaica, the Soul Reggae
Riddim does what its title says; it touches the Soul of Reggae.
As much because of the caliber of artists on the riddim and as much
because of the musical composition, the crew strikes the right balance
as they draw upon the emotions of each artists ‘soul’ and apply it to Reg-
gae. Songs like Christopher Martin’s “Change My Plans” and Mr. Melody’s
“Still in Love” touch on the soul application as does Wayne Wonder’s “Never Gonna
Say Goodbye.”
Mr. Hot-Ed, Busy Signal, delivers one of his best performances with “You and Me.”
Using the majestic sound of trumpets, Busy sings “baby you and me, for eternity, you
will always be my lover” and those words reassure every female of the love they want
to experience deep within. Busy has become every woman’s dream man.
This riddim is a definite must add to your music collection and one that is sure to
add a romantic touch to your evening with your Boo!
YOU CAN’T GO
WRONG WITH
SOUL REGGAE
CONTRIBUTED

M U S I C R E V I E W S

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2-Lined Music Hut
Malvern Town
Centre
31 Tapscott Road
416-264-3999

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76
GETTING TO KNOW
TILIBOP
CONTRIBUTED
D
o not go where the path leads, go where there is no path and blaze a trail! That’s the
expression Tilibop lives by, and the artist is doing just that.
This talented innovator of the Reggae Music Alternative movement has garnered rave
reviews as his 38,000 friends on his social network pages will attest, along with 1.5 mil-
lion music lovers listening with rapt attention.
This Reggae sensation had an appreciation for music, since his humble beginnings as
a young child in St. Mary, Jamaica growing up amidst the turmoil in the streets of Augustown, Jamaica.
Initially listening to music served as an escape from life’s daily struggles, however the music found
the entertainer in him, in a surprising way; while singing to a friend, a stranger overheard his melodic
voice and invited him, to a recording session. Tilibop, unhappy with his first time out, was determined
to not only improve, but to excel. He went home and wrote a song, and then practiced, and continued
to practice until something stirred within him and he hasn’t looked back since that fateful day twelve
years ago. It’s that same introspective quality and work ethic that make Tilibop the consummate vo-
calist he is today.
Tilibop loves and appreciates all genres of music, from old school Soul, to The Beatles, Nina Simone
and Pavarotti to name a few. His roots are in Reggae and in his Reggae Music Alternative Movement is
music with substance that provides great dancing grooves, while providing thought provoking lyrics.
His is music you can feel!
His first single “Ghetto Town” has an easy dance beat, and inspiring message of struggle and deter-
mination, and you can feel that unique sensibility listening to his song “Champion.” His latest single
“Neva Book Fih It” features Beenie Man and is doing well with audiences.
Connect with Tilibop via Twitter >>> @TILIBOP

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M
ake no mistake about Drastic when you hear his voice on
the radio, or see him perform live in concert. He is exactly
what fans love about their favourite performers!
PartSongwriter,partMusician,Producer,Writer,Athlete
and Husband, Art Philip transforms into the Entertainer
known as Drastic when he takes the stage and when he’s
in the recording booth.
Beginning his career professionally in 2007, Drastic achieved the mile-
stone of winning the Virgin Islands Idol competition (a title which is also
shared by friend Brandon Varlack aka BV), and used that win as a stepping
stone to explode on the Soca scene in 2010. His song “Sugary Waistline”
proved to be so popular, he reached the Finals for Antigua’s 2010 Soca Party
Monarch Competition, which was his first time entering the competition and
first time doing a Soca song in his music career.
Within one week of posting the song on Youtube “Sugary Waistline”
received over 18,000 plays. The song also received the award for best Soca
music video from CariVibez in 2011. Drastics accolades don’t stop there!
He’s been #1 on the Reverb Nation website in the Nation of Antigua& Bar-
buda. Over the past two years he has worked with other heavy hitters in the
music industry such as Sean Kingston, Spragga Benz, Honorebel, Jemere
Morgan [of the Morgan Heritage Family] and Jah Cure with whom he and B.V
teamed with to record the song “Kiss Me Girl.” The official music video for
“Kiss Me Girl” landed on the #1 spot on Tempo’s Cross Caribbean Countdown
and #6 on MTV Base Africa. A number of his other music videos have made
it to #1 on Tempo including “Life II Live” featuring BV, “So Seductive” also
featuring BV, and “Blasting Away” featuring J. Nation and LogiQ Pryce of
Them Island Boyz.
The “Blasting Away” 2D Animation video was awarded “Most Creative Use
of Anime in A Music Video” in the 2012 Animae Caribe Animation and Digital
Media Festival in Trinidad & Tobago. Drastic has collaborated with Richie
Loop out of Jamaica on the song “Winna” and most recently Shal Marshall
from Trinidad with “Bam Bam Remix.” His most recent release “Think About
Me” on the Gyal Season Riddim is quickly becoming an international suc-
cess.
Drasticwillbedroppinghisfirstsoloalbum“U.F.O.(UmbrellaforOblivion)”
in Spring 2013.
Connect with Drastic via Twitter >>> @ThisIzDrastic
CONTRIBUTED
OH YES! THIS IS
DRASTIC!

O
ne of the UK’s most talented singers, songwriters and producers whose music is
impacting the world one song at a time is CBlock!
Originally from St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, CBlock was exposed to music from a
young age thanks to his Father who was a recording artist. Always with a fas-
cination for music, CBlock found his way to Area 52 Recording Studios where he
recorded his first song. Since then, there has been no turning back!
With a solid arsenal of original songs made especially for Lover’s, “In My Arms and “Wifey”
have become international hit songs for the artist. Working with diverse elements of R&B, Reg-
gae, Soul, Pop and Acoustic Reggae, CBlocks voice and brand of music are quickly identifiable.
Describing his music as positive, creative and uplifting, CBlock has been able to perform
in various parts of the UK such as London, Nottingham, Northhampton and Wolverhampton,
sharing the stage with some of the industries’ best known artists. In 2011 he made his debut
to his European fans in Yaam, Berlin and was met with great enthusiasm, especially from his
female fans!
Drawing on aspects of his daily life, there is no ‘block’ to the soul-filled flow of music that
comes from CBlock. Recently, CBlock worked on riddim projects for BBC 1Xtra’s Robbo Ranx.
The song, “Swagga Mih Seh’ was voiced to the radio personalities Champagne Riddim.
CBlock is currently working on his album which is due to be released soon, and will have
some of the best Lover’s Rock soul audiences have heard in some time.
Connect with CBlock via Twitter >>> @CBlock45
LOVER’S ROCK
SOUL THANKS TO
CBLOCK
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CONTRIBUTED

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | OCTOBER 2012
81

GAPPY RANKS
R
G
PORTIA CLARKE
AND JACOB WILLIAMS
Gappy Ranks first came to international attention for his performances on clas-
sic Treasure Isle riddims. This collection was put together for the world to
enjoy on the album ‘Put the Stereo On’ which was produced by Chris Peckings.
Not long after the album’s release, Gappy expanded to include Dancehall in his
catalog. Some people appreciated the addition, and others did not. Gappy did what
he felt was right for him. He now enjoys success in both lanes.
Now an international artist with a strong catalog of hits, Gappy sits down with us
to answer all the questions we have about music, food and beef!

PC: What’s the difference between Gappy Ranks and Jacob Williams?
GR: Jacob Williams is the name I was born with and who I am. Gappy Ranks was born through Jacob
Williams by the power of music. As time passes, the two become one because of daily habits and
public awareness. After so long, it becomes difficult to separate the two in terms of carrying work
home. I hope Jacob Williams shines bright through the voice that is Gappy Ranks.
Seeing that you’ve started using your real name within your career, do you find people call you both
now?
For a long time in my community of Harlesden, London, people called me Jacob, Gappy, So Ghetto or
Papoose, all of which can still be heard today. For a long time I have let the world know more about
the life behind Gappy Ranks which is Jacob Williams. It is also the name given by my parents whom I
love and respect dearly.
Do you have a nickname other than Gappy?!
Other than the ones I mentioned previously, no! Gappy was the first name given to me at the age of six
in my community of Harlesden. I have a gap in my teeth and still do. This was the reason for Gappy
which I took with honor amongst my friends and family. The Ranks was added due to the music deliv-
ered by the great Cutty ranks. It never changed since, and is becoming known worldwide!
You are proclaimed to be the Reggae / Dancehall artist from the UK that put the UK on the map. Does
this proclamation put pressure on you to do quality songs over quantity songs?
The music today is being made as a fast pace which is faster than usual. As artists worldwide can
record at home and deliver a production and seek rewards via sites such as YouTube. Music from the
UK had declined for a long time and yes I did do my part to renew its history, and I still do, but I didn’t
do it alone. Artists within the UK have been trying for years just as hard as Gappy Ranks, so it would
be wrong of me to not see and credit and give respect where it’s due.
I think we still have a lot of work to do in the UK in terms of holding up and rewarding our talents
more.
Being from the UK, what aspects have you embraced in your music?
Well as you know, the UK is where I’m from, and it’s one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world
where people of all backgrounds live together. This has had a huge impact on the music I make.
Being from North West London where Reggae music dominates, and coming from a West Indian heri-
tage, it’s natural for me to incorporate its values and mannerisms in the other genres of music I make
which appeal to multiple cultures.

You’re a songwriter as well as an artist. Where did your talent for
writing come from? If you had to choose, which would you rather;
songwriting or being an artist?
At a very young age, writing became a love of mine as I would script
poems and stories at primary school level. My love for the English
subject also elevated my songwriting and use of wording and sylla-
bles. As a recording and performing artist, I think it’s very important
to have the art of songwriting as it enhances how you perform and
deliver music.
I always say you have to ‘write it to sing it!’
Gaps (I hope you don’t mind me calling you that!), you’ve done songs
with so many artists in the Reggae and Dancehall industry and across
the board in general. Is there a feature that you’ve done so far that
stands out and why?
That would be hard for me to comment on but doing features with
artists such as Beenie Man, Freddie McGregor, Delly Ranx, Christopher
Ellis, Busy Signal and more is such a great collective of artists and
material.
My attitude to doing more collaboration is never based on fame or
name; it was and still is based on talent and passion for the music
being made. I always have the view that we are all equal no matter
the celebrity status or wealth.
Which living Reggae artist would you like to work with?
I have had the chance to work and perform on stage with a variety of
artists from the late Alton Ellis to the legend Beres Hammond. I think
when in the right place, and at the right time, collaboration will be
created naturally.
“AT A VERY YOUNG AGE,
WRITING BECAME A LOVE OF
MINE...MY LOVE FOR THE
ENGLISH SUBJECT ALSO
ELEVATED MY SONGWRITING
AND USE OF WORDING AND
SYLLABLES.”

Which Dancehall artist would you like to work with and why?
I think my previous answer can be applied to this question, but I will add that more unity must be
forged between artists. We can look at other genres unity in terms of creating a stronger industry and
we can all work together to be successful.
For too long there has been division and a lack of a productive attitude towards getting along with
each other. I myself have to try harder and I acknowledge the dedication to the efforts needed.
Speaking about features, its only right we talk about one of the hottest tracks out right now with Mr.
Busy Signal called “Money Finger.” How did that feature come about as Busy doesn’t generally do too
many features with foreign artists?
I’ve known Busy personally for a few years. We were introduced through Alliance member Jagwa while
both were on tour here in the UK. Since that introduction, I’ve been o many shows with Busy abroad
and he has always kept in contact with me especially when he comes to the UK.
Before his incarceration (he served six months and was released), we recorded a number of records
in London, one of which was “Hottest Hothead.” I produced and recorded a video for that track, and
one of the other tracks was the “Money Finger” collaboration.
Did you expect Money Finger to be such a big hit with fans and the media?
You never know the impact a song is going to have on the public as the attention span is so short and
we’re in a fast paced industry. I knew the idea of the collaboration with myself and Busy would get an
awesome response.
The music was composed by Trinidad and Tobago born, and now UK based producer Wundah who
captured the right attitude of melodic instruments that ignited the lyrics written by myself and Busy
Signal. I’m happy for the feedback from the worldwide community. I understand the song is also on
the charts all over!
Can we expect a video for Money Finger?
Yes definitely! I have been having meetings with French Director and Film Maker Joachim Maquet who
has done a number of projects with me already. We want to deliver a great video that will be played
and enjoyed by everyone. We’re fine tuning the scheduling so the video is done properly. It should be
completed and delivered before the end of spring, 2013!
As an artist, how do you keep your music and lyrics relevant?
I think what most people would attribute to my nature is the eclectic and versatile music I make as
well as my performance. Keeping up with the world is very important and artists should never trap
themselves in a time box. Image and trends and lyrics have to be created and changed from time to
time in order to stay ahead with what is current and by extension what fans want to hear.
Gappy you tour so much and very often. We know touring is exciting, but what we really want to know
is what 3 things do you always bring on the road with you?!
Seeing the world is something that has enhanced the name Gappy Ranks and has also helped me
understand more. Different locations will demand different luggage etcetera so it tends to vary, but,
I never leave home without my family values and knowledge that I must stay true to who I am no
matter how far away I am from home. Material things can be replaced at the blink of an eye, but your
life cannot.

Being an artist I’m sure people always pre-judge you, what is the biggest preconception
people have about you?
I think the biggest preconception any artist or person in the public eye will have to face
is people thinking you’re always happy. This goes back to what I said earlier about
two becoming one over a matter of time (Gappy Ranks and Jacob Williams). I’m still
a human being living on earth. I would love people to understand more about the life
behind an artist, that way I think it will bring the people closer to what we represent
and stand for.
You’re known for being very outspoken. Taking advantage of you being outspoken, I’m
going to ask the question most people want to know! Are Gappy Ranks and Stylo G in
a musical or personal beef?
The answer to that is no. I think Stylo G is a great artist and has proven to the UK and to
the world that he is capable of delivering good music and maintaining that fan base. I
personally know and have seen his elevation and dedication that he’s put into his music
to take him where he is right now.
His songs “Call Me A Yardie” and “Winter Swag” are great songs that I myself listen
to; however we have both achieved a great response from the music world. There are
some people who encourage competition and beef between us but I have no time for
a beef with Stylo G or anyone else trying to make something of their lives and who are
doing good music, especially in the UK.
Do you think musical beef is a plus or a negative within Dancehall?
I think artists definitely need to have a competitive drive but only to be generated into
creating great work and to keep on their toes. I grew up seeing a lot of violent things
and I know so many people who lost their life to beef. I would be a fool to want to live
my life for war; nobody wants that. I would never want to see anyone hurt because of
my music, especially another artist.
You have a label called Hot Coffee Music. Tell us about that!
I started my label in 2010. I wanted to spread the production and awareness of UK
talent. I actually got the name for the label from an incident involving a Mac Book Pro
and a cup of coffee (he laughs). Go figure!
Is Hot Coffee a Reggae / Dancehall Label? How many artists do you have on the label
and what can you tell us about them?!
Hot Coffee Music is not a Reggae record label but we have a string aroma of Reggae! My
intention is to produce artists regardless of the genre they perform in. We’ve started
producing for artists such as Chino McGregor, Gyptian, Busy Signal, Redman UK, Bugle,
Delly Ranx, Khago and more as well as my own material.
My focus is to rise and be a positive part of the industry.

Gaps I know you’re into food so it’s only right that I ask … if I take a look in your fridge,
what would I see?!
Eating healthy is important to me and it’s easy to get carried away with all the food,
especially take out, that’s available. I love to cook for my family every chance I get
so I can tell you what you WON’T find in my fridge which is alcohol, Pork and red meat!
Ok so tonight is your night to cook, what are you cooking?
It would definitely be my specialty which is Chicken Mangifera Indica which is my own
personal recipe! I might also make Stewed Mango Pulp Chicken Breast with lemon
grass corn on the cob, mixed vegetables and coleslaw.
FILLING IN THE GAPS!
I Love………Everything That Is Good About The World
I Hate .......Everything That Is Bad About The World
Music Is My……..For The People By The People
My Fans Are……….Part Of Who I Am
Gappy Is ……..Learning Everyday
Jacob Lee Williams Is ……….Trying To Do The Best He Can
Follow Me On Twitter …………..And I Will Follow You
My Message To My Fans …………Is Thank You For All Your Support And Love.
Connect with Gappy on Twitter >>> @GappyRanks | @Hot_CoffeeMusic

SAMMI STAR
20 QUESTIONS WITH
AYEOLA GEORGE
Sammy “Sammi Starr” Poitier the son of two ministers, husband to a gor-
geous wife and father to a beautiful daughter is one of the Bahamas
leading talents. He got his start in church playing the drums and singing
in the choir, then playing the piano when the keyboardist left to reside
on another island.
Though he may not have thought of it while pursuing his law degree
years later, his start in the church watching and learning from his father
Rev. Oswald Poitier (who founded the group Gospel Music Train) and his
mother Sabrena he was destined for a career in music.
As a teen Sammi took part in several local talent shows, including the
Junkanoo Song competition and has performed at additional Bahamas
events such as Make ‘Em Listen Productions showcase, Reggae All Stars
2008 and 2009, and Miss Bahamas World among others.
In 2010 he was one of the closing acts along with Nicki Minaj, Rick
Ross, and Diddy at “Miami’s Best of the Best.” Under his Starrboy Pro-
ductions, Sammi Starr has released hits such as “We Winning,” “Good to
Know You,” “I’ll Never Leave” and more and also includes production in
his portfolio.
S
S

AG: Your upcoming album is called black gray white. What inspired the name why isn’t it white
gray black?
SS: It’s actually three albums. The first is Black Vol. 1, then Gray Vol. 2, and White Vol.3. Black
is rigid it has to start and stop at some point. It is an introduction of who I am. Gray represents
a little clarity but not quite there. With White, the entire thing is being brought to light; every-
thing is clear. By then you know Sammi Star, you know what his music represents you’re now
a fan. So the first album (Black Vol.1 is due in the Summer but before that I am also releasing
a mixtape (Da Mixtape) in April 2013.
Is your wife involved in any decision-making in y our career?
Yes. Other than the people in the studio she is one of the first to hear my music. Of the four
people who critique to determine whether or not to release a song, she is number one on that
list.
What made you decide to go into politics and now that you’re no longer a political candidate
do you think you accomplished what you set out to do originally and was it worth it?
It was a bittersweet experience. A little bit of history. I actually always wanted to go into
politics before I decided to be an entertainer. I went to school to study law, the whole nine.
My uncle is a well-known politician; he was a minister for almost 30 years so I was supposed
to follow in his footsteps and be a member of parliament, then minister, then possibly prime
minister; that was the plan.
While I was in college in the US is when I really got wind of what an entertainment career is
like. That’s when I started watching all the video channels. I realized I had a passion for that
and I kinda shifted my focus. When the opportunity arose; when the new party (Democratic
National Alliance) came about, I then realized that I had a lot of impact on young people in
the Bahamas so they asked me to run. They looked at my background, my family members,
and the political ties I had to them. I set out to do it for two reasons to prove that the average
man (not just lawyers, successful businessmen) could be politicians, and secondly, because I
believe that people younger than thirty needs an example to show that they need not feel like
they have to be old men or women to make their contribution politically to society.
I think I was successful because I had a lot of support. Like I said I represented the average
man which is the majority of the electorate. A couple of things went wrong between the party
and I and I ended up no longer being the candidate. The bittersweet part of it is I had to step
away for the most part from performing and continuously putting my image out there as an
entertainer. I had to step away from that in order to run a successful campaign. So that kind
of took away from my continuous growth as an artist. So it kinda put me in a position where I
had to work a little harder to get back out there.
You remind me of Ne-Yo who speaks of being a gentleman. Is that really who you are or is that
the image of Sammi Starr or as someone called you, the Renaissance man?
That is actually who I am. To be honest with you I don’t really know how the other artists do it
in terms of creating an image I never actually took the time to do that. I just made the music
and I made it based on the way I live, the way I speak, my personality, the way I interact with
persons in my family. If you take away the music it will still be the same in terms of me the
person. I think the word gentleman describes who I am. I like to party, but I don’t drink, I don’t
smoke, I don’t club. I’m pretty much a laid back guy.

What is your favorite?
Breakfast food: Stew snapper and potato bread
Cologne: Gucci Guilty
Thing to do on a boring day: watch drama movies
Caribbean city outside the Bahamas: Montego Bay
Workout song: “Stronger” by Kanye West
Go With Your Gut!
Run or lift weights: Lift weights
Knowledge or wisdom: Wisdom
Boxers or briefs: Neither! Boxerbriefs
Hot tub or hot spring: Hot spring
Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child) or Carrie Under-
wood: Carrie Underwood definitely!
Finish It!
My daughter is the most beautiful little girl I have seen
in my entire life
I feel sexy when I’m naked
Condoms: I’m married so I have no need for them
Sometimes I sing while I am walking on the beach
Sammi Starr is definitely working and will never stop
Connect with Sammi on Twitter >>>
@sammiepoitier
What do you like most about yourself?
I think I like my compassion most about myself. I like my compas-
sion even more than my talent. It feels really good to help and
relate to others.
What do you like least about yourself?
Umm … my height. I’m like 5’5!
We talked about your fashion sense very vaguely and indirectly
with the gentleman question but let’s tackle it right now. Who or
what inspires your sense of fashion?
It’s kind of difficult to say I don’ know where to start there are so
many things. If I had to pinpoint it, it has a lot to do with the way
I was brought up. My parents were ministers in church and my
dad in particular; I am a replica of my father in terms of being a
gentleman and having compassion for people. I have never seen
a man with a bigger heart than my father. So just growing up
watching him being taught to treat women right, listening to his
instruction and growing up and realizing it was the right thing to
do, all that influenced my fashion.
What do you like most about being Bahamian
2-4-2 all day! Oh man where do I start?! What I like about Baha-
mians is the freedom of who you are as a person. We can adapt to
pretty much any society that we need to blend in but at the same
time we stand out in such a way that you ultimately know that
this person is different. Freedom is a big thing here; to be who you
want to be, patriotic etc.!
What are the top three songs in your iPod?!
Faith Evans- “Never Let You Go”
Destiny’s Child- “Cater to You”
Kiara Sheard- “Praise Him Now”

C
P
CALI P
IS THE LYRICAL FYAH
TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCR
W
hen you meet Cali P, the air immediately lightens up. His demeanor
is light and effervescent. His smile is radiant and his spirit is vibrant.
I just knew this was going to be a fun interview. Dressed in all white
with his floor reaching locks tied neatly, we sat down and spoke like
we knew each other for a long time.

TS: Hey Cali, introduce yourself to the world. (He’s all big smiles and giggle for a bit)
CP: I am from Guadeloupe. My dad is from Guadeloupe and my mother is from Switzerland. Cali P is a
Reggae Dancehall artiste that has the lyrical fire.
How did you get started in Reggae music, because when I think of Guadeloupe I don’t think Reggae, I
think more of French music like Zouk.
You would be surprised still because Reggae and Dancehall are big in Guadeloupe as a Caribbean
island, but it’s true they do Zouk music and cultural drumming music. That is where my father comes
in, he builds drums and play drums, he is a Rasta man and a percussionist that plays big drums. He is
the one that really introduced me to Reggae music because he used to tour with some Reggae bands
and at the time we were living in Europe. He used to play percussion with them and he would carry
me on the movements enuh (you know).
At what age did you start moving around with your dad and being exposed to Reggae music like that?
From a very young age enuh. I remember singing on stage from as young as 3. I would go on stage and
sing songs (he gesticualtes wildly) and play drums. As a young youth I used to play concerts enuh. I
used to play drums. My first concert was when I was 12 with a band. Music was always my love, play-
ing drums, sing songs and writing. Everything music.
So when did you start taking music seriously; what made you decide to pursue it as a career?
This decision came for me when I was 15 and finishing school in Switzerland and you had to decide
what you were going to do with your life. For me at that moment, music was what I did best and what
I feel I could bring best, so mi just decide that. So from that time I work on that, I used to do sing in
sound systems, record songs and do dub plates and go everywhere in Europe.
Which sound systems?
At that time it was The Gideon Soldiers sound system, a Rasta sound system enuh and I did emcee for
dem enuh touring Switzerland, Italy, Germany and so on. That is when I really realize that when I start
to sing inna the dance people really love the vibes. That time enuh, we play with 7” and we would turn
it around and play the riddim (version) and sing chune and people would rail up. I said to myself, ‘yeh,
that is the thing I need to work with enuh!’
Did working with a sound system bolster your confidence as an artiste, help with your stage perfor-
mance and affect how you record music?
Definitely. Really and truly checking Reggae music from an elder time definitely come through the
sound system. The artiste that really have the voice and artistical thing comes through the Sound
System. You cannot fake anything, you need to perform make the people them hear what you have to
say enuh. So that is really where my thing come from enuh. In going to the studio that really help me
and my confidence. It help my performance because it teach me how to interact with people cause
you need to get the people attention. Putting that together with a positive message, I think that give
me the lyrical fire.

How did you get the name Cali P?
Cali is from the herbs enuh and that is what mi defend from the younger days since school
time enuh. We used to do mixed tapes and somebody jus call me Cali from then and mi just
stick with it.
How did you end up in Jamaica?
Alright, dat jump deh have like 10 years in between. In those 10 years me really build my ting,
record songs, release albums and ting. It reach at a point where I had a studio in Switzerland
with my brethren. It was cool, but really truly it was limiting because when I would record
songs and need harmonies on the track I didn’t know who to call. If I wanted someone to play
a wicked guitar, I didn’t know who to call. At the same time I had some bredrens from America
and they wanted to build a thing and was encouraging me to go there, but when I really check
it out, I said to myself if I really going to do this then it is better that I go to Jamaica. I love the
vibes here, the music scene and I feel comfortable living here.
What, you feel comfortable living here? You have lived all over Europe and in Guadeloupe and
you are here saying to me that you love Jamaica for professional and private reasons and are
comfortable here, so how comes many Jamaicans don’t share your point of view?!
You cannot say every Jamaican!
I didn’t say every Jamaican, I say a lot of Jamaicans. You are not even a Jamaican, so what are
you seeing?!
Well, I see the positive in it! First of all there is a lot of positive here. There is the love, unity
and respect in the people enuh. Sometimes me hear people say everything lost, but I don’t
feel so because there is a lot of respect inna the livity that Jamaicans have. Mi like that people
straight up and this is how I am. To me, here living with the people them, I feel I can bring a
motivation same way to the Reggae music that really need that because more time I feel that
it is underrated and underestimated in Jamaica, their own music that they have created and
sent out to the world. It is so big right now, even though they say its an underground music.

Why you think we underrate it, yet you, an expa-
triate like yourself just embrace it so much?
Mi just feel the vibes enuh, that is jus I and I and I
choose to contribute to that.
Why do you feel a lot of Jamaicans don’t embrace
it as much?
Dem nah go tell you they don’t appreciate it and
that dem don’t love it. I think them don’t get ex-
posed to it as much as other music. Really and
truly, that is what I think. When I zip thru the TV, I
don’t even hear some of the authentic music from
long time and even some of the nowadays yute.
Appreciation should include where we’re com-
ing from, the roots, as well as music from other
genres.
I can understand that.
Yes!
What are you currently working on?
I am working on an album with Bobby Digital, who
is, in my opinion, one of the greatest producers
in Jamaica. In addition to the countless riddims
that he produced that help to make Reggae what
it is today, he produced albums for legends like
Garnett Silk, Shabba Ranks, Morgan Heritage and
Sizzla. Now Cali P will be added to his catalog and
mi pride-full bout dat.

What is the central theme of the album that you are working on?
The album is called “Musically Speaking.” It is exactly what I talk about; exposing the
people to music weh build inna Jamaica from scratch. We paid a lot of attention to the
details and the quality of the music. We believe this album has music that you can get
nowhere else in the world.
How did you make the link with Bobby Digital?
When I first came here in 2009 for the first time, I just lived around the corner and a
bredren tell me that Bobby Digital studio was around the corner. I said ‘what?! mad
ting that’. One day I got a call from a friend who was at the studio and him say ‘yow a
bredren want to talk to you’ and him make mi talk to Bobby Digital stepson, Collie Bud.
Him say to me ‘yow you need fi come a di studio’. I went and naturally, I just feel a fam-
ily vibe and we just start recording songs.
Are there any collabs on the album?
Yes, right now the album will drop mid 2013 real soon, we still working on it. All the
songs are already recorded, we just doing the mixing right now. You see that album
deh, to me, we want when it release it just fresh, it just new. Dem not supposed to know
what on it, that is how I used to buy album. When I buy an album, I don’t know what is
one there, which is why I bought it, so I could find out wah gwan with every song. That
is what I want to give to the listeners.
What do you have to tell the readers of L3 Magazine?
Keep reading and stay focused cause reading is a good thing and will build not only
your knowledge but your understanding. More life and more powers. Bless up!
Connect with Cali P on Twitter >>> @therealcalip

I N T H E M I X
2011
CULTURE MIX
DJ KARIM
SENDPACE
DJ ECOOL
MADE IN NAIJA
DOWNLOAD NOW
http://www.hulkshare.com/ft4vqxftr9q8/?force=1

L3 magazine | march 2013 | no. 019

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