17 North Parade Releases the First LIVE Album Ever Recorded in Jamaica!

On Jan 24, 17 North Parade will release Live At The Turntable Club for the first time on CD. The original 1974 release, presented and produced by Niney The Observer, was the first live album recorded in Jamaica that gave the rest of the world aural access to Kingston's lively music scene during a definitive era in reggae. 

With electrifying live performances from Dennis Brown, Delroy Wilson, Big Youth and backing band Soul Syndicate, Live At The Turntable Club is a vibrant snap shot of the key players who paved the way for the roots genre. Reggae's most accomplished recording engineers - King Tubby, Errol Thompson and Dennis Thompson - along with Niney and these legendary artists were at the peak of their musical careers when they captured these live recordings inside Kingston's famous nightclub. The songs were mixed by King Tubby at his renowned studio on Dromilly Avenue and mastered in London at The Beatles’ Apple Studio on Saville Row. 

The new CD collection is fully remastered with revamped packaging that replicates the original gatefold vinyl sleeve and is complimented with an extensive booklet, which includes an interview with Turntable club owner Winston “Merritone” Blake. This limited edition pressing is a must-have collection for all vintage reggae fans. A vinyl LP re-issue will follow in 2012. 

Track Listing:

Dennis Brown - Cassandra 

Dennis Brown – Rock With Me Baby 

Dennis Brown – Give A Helping Hand 

Alexander Portious – Everything I Own 

Alexander Portious – Love Overdue 

Delroy Wilson – I’m A Happy Man (Without You In My Life) 

Delroy Wilson – It’s A Shame 

Delroy Wilson – Have Some Mercy 

Delroy Wilson – You Keep On Running 

Big Youth – Santa Massa Gone Ya (I Pray Thee) 

Big Youth – Dread In A Babylon 

Midnite to Release New Album "In Awe"

The new album from veteran reggae act Midnite, titled In Awe, is scheduled for release on January 24, 2012 through the VP Associated Labels Group (VPAL).  Armed with a firm foundation in Jah Rastafari and an uncompromising musical vision, Midnite champions a cutting-edge sound of modern roots music. 

The newly recorded studio album features ten tracks with Vaughn Benjamin on lead vocals and his brother Ron Benjamin contributing bass and production. They have guided their sound and career as this distinctive unit since 1997. Midnite's live performances, which often exceed three hours, have won them a legion of fans among the reggae community.

Combining the best of classic production with timely rhythms, blazing horns and pristine instrumentation, John Juaquin Wilson is proud to bring forth this release to the reggae massive. As the fifth Midnite release on Fifth Son Records, this independent label looks forward to reaching more roots reggae fans than ever. "Having VP distribute this album is a pivotal step in exposing as many listeners to this critical music as possible," says Juaquin Wilson from his studio in Taos, New Mexico. "We (Midnite and Fifth Son) are excited to work with VP. This record (In Awe) stands as a testament to the power of  roots  music and the foundation of Jah," he adds.

With In Awe, Vaughn Benjamin and Fifth Son Records team up with VP Records' global distribution network. The pairing will continue the progress of the 2011 release Treasure which platformed the group's music and their indie label counterparts on a new level through the VP Associated Labels Group (VPAL) distribution network. This arrangement includes worldwide digital and physical distribution for the group as well as marketing services through VP's label services.

"This new album is yet another authentic piece which captures the melodic sound of true roots music at its best and with Midnite’s management and Vaughn’s support we will continue to offer Midnite’s music to a wider audience worldwide,” notes VPAL's Director, Donovan Williams.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Jan 26th San Diego, CA - World Beat Center

Jan 27th Hollywood, CA - The Key Club

Jan 28th Santa Ana, CA - The Galaxy Theater

Visit website to listen to songs from new album and for most up-to-date tour schedule: www.midniteband.com

The Unsung Hero - Randy & The Development Of Jamaican Music

Originally posted at Jamaica-Gleaner.com

The Chinese community in Jamaica played a very important role in the development of Jamaican popular music during its formative years. Their role was primarily as producers, and notable among these were Charlie Moo, Ivan Chin from the mento era, Byron Lee, the soca calypso king, Justin Yap, and Leslie Kong, who as a producer has the distinction of recording the debut songs of Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, and John Holt, the respective titles being Judge Not, Hurricane Hatti, and Forever I Will Stay. But probably the most important contribution made by a Chinese-Jamaican was that by Vincent 'Randy' Chin, who in later years went on to establish the now world-famous VP Records in New York.

Randy's role was critical as a producer of early Jamaican music and later as a distributor on the international market. He along with his wife Patricia established VP Records in the late 1970s - V for Vincent and P for Pat.

It all started in 1959 when Randy opened his first record shop at the corner of East and Barry streets in downtown Kingston.

Born on October 3, 1937 in Kingston, he worked in the jukebox business for entrepreneur Isaac Issa, and gained valuable experience.

This experience along with old discarded jukebox records he took with him to bolster his stock when he opened his own business. By 1961 he was operating from a new premises located at 17 North Parade in the heart of downtown Kingston. This establishment, which became the very popular Randy's Records, provided record collectors and music lovers with many hard-to-get records.

In addition, he established a top-of-the-line studio above the same premises.

The studio catered to the aspirations of many would-be artistes.

Through his efforts and the provision of his studio, artistes such as The Maytals, Alton Ellis, Ken Boothe, Stranger Cole, John Holt and others were given their earliest exposure.

Chin acquired the name Randy's from a United States (US) late night radio show entitled Randy's Record Shop, which was sponsored by a US record shop of the same name. Vincent, a keen listener to that programme, was thrilled by it, to the extent that he named his record shop and record label after it. Soon after, he ventured into the areas of producing recordings for prospective artistes.

earliest productions

Among Randy's earliest productions were Goodbye Pretty Baby by the blues shouter Basil Gabbidon, and the doo-wop-styled songs My Love Divine and Let Me Dream in 1961 by Alton and Eddy. The duo had previously scored a massive hit a few years before with another doo-wop-styled song titled Muriel for producer Clement 'Coxson' Dodd. Alton Ellis (a half of Alton and Eddy), who would go on the become one of the biggest Jamaican stars, with producers Duke Reid and Dodd. Still during the rocksteady era, Ellis also made the solo recordings Ska Beat, It Doesn't Matter At All, and Mouth A Massy for Randy.

But Randy's biggest success as a producer in those early years came from the Trinidad-born singer, Kenrick Patrick, better known as Lord Creator.

Creator was passing through the island on a Caribbean tour with a group of musicians in January 1962. Randy's next move was timely.

It was approaching Jamaica's acquisition of independence in August of that same year, and fascinated by Creator's voice, Randy intercepted him at a Kingston nighclub and requested he compose a song about Jamaica's independence. The late Raymond Sharpe, a Gleaner columnist at the time, was in attendance and provided Creator with an article on the lead-ups to Jamaica's independence. It eventually formed the basis on which the recording was built, and became the most explicit narrative in popular music on Jamaica's independence.

big hit

It was also to Randy's credit that the recording, a calypso tune titled Independent Jamaica, became the biggest hit in Jamaica in 1962, rocketing to number one on the charts. In the process, the song became the first record issued in the United Kingdom by Chris Blackwell's fledging Island Records.

Creator went on to record other top ska hits for Randy, including Don't Stay Out Late, and Man To Man.

For the next couple of years, Randy recorded on his Randy's label several successful recordings for various artistes. These included the very popular vocal trio, Toots and the Maytals, who also began their hit-making career with coxson, John Holt who recorded Rum Bumper, and Ken Boothe who recorded in duet with Stranger Cole, the original version of Home Home which was later popularised in the rocksteady mode for Dodd.

The musicians employed by Randy were no less impressive. The aggregation comprised the nucleus of the best band in the land - The Skatalites which included trombonists Don Drummond and Rico Rodriguez, saxists Lester Sterling, Roland Alphonso, Tommy McCooke and Stanley Notice, and trumpeters Johnny Moore and Bobby Ellis. Many were graduates of the famous Alpha Boys' School on South Camp Road

By 1968 Randy had opened his legendary Studio 17 upstairs his North Parade premises. Up to the mid to late 1970s, many of Bob Marley's classic recordings for producer Lee 'Scratch' Perry were still being done there. It was about that time that Randy relocated his family to New York and opened VP Records.

It became and still remains the leading distributor of Jamaican music in the world.

Vincent Randy Chin passed away on February 2, 2003 at the age of 65, but his memory will continually be perpetuated through his work with VP Records and earlier with Randy's Records in Jamaica. Today we can recognise the vital and immeasurable contribution made by Randy to the development of early and modern Jamaican music and appreciate the eternal qualities of good taste, swing, and vibes that went into Randy's recordings.

He was indeed one of those unsung heroes of Jamaican music who didn't receive the reward and recognition he justly deserved.

I-Octane will release his debut album Crying To The Nation on Feb 14, 2012. The 16-track opus is a joint venture deal with reggae powerhouse VP Records and Scikron, which is owned and operated by Robert Livingston, former long-time manager of multi-platinum artist Shaggy. On I-Octane's first full-length LP, he will reinvigorate the feeling of roots and dancehall at its purest. I-Octane has already proven himself as a powerful lyricist and unveils his uncanny ability to sing romantic ballads and socially aware tunes on this traditional reggae album.

I-Octane’s “Puff It,” which is featured on Crying To The Nation, is chosen as one of National Public Radio's Top 5 Dancehall Tracks for 2011. NPR's Baz Dreisinger describes I-Octane as “2011's buzzworthy newcomer: a Rastafarian DJ in the vein of Sizzla or Capleton, comfortable moving from conscious music to hardcore dancehall and back again.” The year’s favorite anthem showcases his “signature style: rapid-fire rhyming skills, haunting vocals and simple, singalong hooks,” Dreisinger adds.

I-Octane also renews his Digicel sponsorship deal for 2012. This is second year he will serve as the sole Brand Ambassador for the Caribbean’s largest mobile communications provider. Shelly-Ann Curran, Digicel's Sponsorship and Activations Manager, recently told the Jamaica Observer that I-Octane’s “unique style of music mirrors the youthful vibrancy and positive energy that is Digicel.”

www.ioctanemusic.com
www.facebook.com/itsioctanesiiick

Crying To The Nation Track Listing:
1. Rules Of Life
2. Help I Please
3. Vanity Will Come
4. Nuh Love Inna Dem
5. Puff It
6. No More Violence
7. System A Beat Dem
8. Zion Awaits
9. L.O.V.E. Y.O.U.
10. Missing You ft. Agent Sasco
11. Once More
12. The Master's Plan
13. Lose A Friend
14. All We Need Is Love ft. Tarrus Riley
15. Space For All Of Us ft. Alborosie
16. Crying To The Nation 

The Grammy nominees have been revealed and Israel Vibration receives a Best Reggae Album nomination for Reggae Knights. Other nominees include Monty Alexander for Harlem-Kingston Express Live!, Stephen Marley for Revelation Pt 1: The Root Of Life, Ziggy Marley for Wild And Free and Shaggy for Summer In Kingston.

Cecil "Skelly" Spence and Lascelle "Wiss" Bulgin, two thirds of the original Israel Vibration, released Reggae Knights on August 16, 2011 through Mediacom and VP Associated Label Group (VPAL), a subsidiary of VP Records that offers worldwide independent digital and physical distribution for artists and labels.

VPAL Label Manager Donovan Williams expresses his enthusiasm about the news. “I'm very excited for their well-deserved nomination. Working directly with Skelly, Wiss and manager Michel Jovanovic on their U.S. release has been a nice experience and served great purpose. We intend to join forces again for their future accomplishments.”

Recorded in Jimmy Cliff's studio (Sun Power Productions) in Kingston, Israel Vibration still defends the traditional values of roots music on Reggae Knights. They even recreate their famous first single "Bad Intention" which put them on the map as one of the most pivotal reggae bands in the late 1970s. Additional musicians including members of the Roots Radics, Robbie Shakespeare, Dean Fraser, Nambo Robinson and Grammy-winning engineer Christopher Daley contribute their talents on the album.

Check out their latest video "My Master's Will" off of Reggae Knights.

Israel Vibration was originally a harmony trio consisting of Lascelle "Wiss" Bulgin, Albert "Apple Gabriel" Craig, and Cecil "Skelly." They all met as children while recovering from polio at a rehabilitation center in Jamaica. The boys formed a bond singing together and used music as part of the healing process. The group went on to record three albums, The Same Song, Unconquered People and Why You So Craven, before temporarily parting ways in 1981. In 1997, Apple Gabriel permanently left the group to pursue a solo career. Skelly and Wiss continue to record albums and tour the world as Israel Vibration, backed by longtime associates Roots Radics.

The winner for Best New Reggae Album will be announced in at the Pre-Telecast Ceremony on Feb, 12, 2012. The 54th Grammys air on CBS on Feb 12, 2012 at 8pm ET.

Israel Vibration’s Reggae Knights iTunes purchase link.

###

For all press inquires or requests please contact Tiffany Mea. Thanks.

PR Contact:
Tiffany Mea
Email: Tiffany@withlovepr.com
Tiffanym@vprecords.com
PH: 619-606-1059

I-Octane to Release First Full-Length Album!

“I-Octane's fusion of hauntingly sung vocals with rapid-fire rhymes...reaffirm dancehall's significance as a vehicle for compelling commentaries and praising Jah..." – BILLBOARD

VP Records and Scikron are proud to announce the release of I-Octane’s debut album, ‘Crying To The Nation,’ available January 31, 2012. As one of the most-talked about artists emerging from Jamaica, I-Octane’s first full-length LP will reinvigorate the feeling of roots and dancehall at its purest. He has already proven himself as a lyricist with rapid-fire delivery, and unveils his uncanny ability to sing romantic ballads and socially aware tunes on this traditional reggae album.

‘Crying To The Nation’ puts I-Octane in a class of his own as one of the next generation’s leaders of the conscious dancehall movement. Following in a similar vein of his predecessors Sizzla, Capleton and Buju Banton, his lyrics express sentiments of faith, romance, social justice and compassion for the ghetto youth. His brand new single “L.O.V.E Y.O.U,” “Missing You” (remix featuring Agent Sasco) and “Once More” reflect his emotional sensibility, while songs like “Vanity Will Come,” “All We Need Is Love” (featuring Tarrus Riley) and the title track are filled with positive messages and political leanings, something that the current state of dancehall often lacks.

"I feel good about all the songs I've done since I have started out, but this album is very special to me because I got the chance to make the type of songs that I really enjoy and meds the music in a different creative way. My fans will get to see another side of me and after all the challenges I've faced in the industry, seeing my first album is a great accomplishment. I give thanks for that," states I-Octane.

Most of the album’s tracks have never been heard with the exception of the pulsating dancehall anthems "Nuh Love Inna Dem" and “Puff It” as well as “Lose A Friend,” arguably his biggest and most requested song to date. The latter tune hit number #1 on Jamaica’s charts - remaining at the top for approximately 16 weeks - and experienced new life again when Jamaican officials declared a state of emergency after Kingston’s gruesome gang-related attacks.

This year, Billboard magazine enlisted I-Octane as one of their 15 Artists Impacting The Indie Scene. In a rave review for his latest mixtape ‘Focus’ (produced by Livity Movements), the New York Times adds that his recent performance at Jamaica’s largest annual music festival, Reggae Sumfest, was “focused and intense’ and stood out for “bonfires getting stoked throughout the crowd. In the language of Sumfest, that’s an endorsement, a big one for this young singer."

The evolution of I-Octane began when he developed a diverse catalogue of songs under the moniker Richie Rich. He had dancehall’s A-List producers at the helm, like Donovan Germaine of Penthouse Records, Arrows and Cash Flow. In 2007, his breakthrough hit “Stab Vampire” became the number one song in his native country and received the award for Video of the Year at the Excellence in Music Awards (EME). I-Octane continued to put out hit after hit like “Mama You Alone, “Lose A Friend,” “My Life,” “Nuh Love Inna Dem,” “Nuh Ramp Wid Wi” and “Puff It.”

In his short five year career, he has already received a total of 20 nominations and awards, including 3 wins at this year’s Excellence in Music Awards (EME) for Breakthrough Artist, Best Male Singjay and Best Reggae Song for “My Life,” Best Performer at the 2011 Clarendon Music Awards and Jamaica Observer’s title for Male Singer of the Year. Digicel, the largest mobile telecommunications operator in the Caribbean, selected I-Octane as its brand ambassador for the company's 'Next Generation' campaign in 2010 and as their sole entertainer for 2011. Over the past year, I-Octane kicked off an extensive tour spanning 40 cities in North America as well as the shores of Japan. In addition to his buzzworthy mixtape, he is set to release a digital EP ‘Straight From The Heart’ in early December prior to his debut album. In 2012, ‘Crying To The Nation’ will solidify his position as a multi-faceted reggae artist, proving his reach beyond dancehall with his added repertoire of touching love songs and cultural tunes. This refreshing approach to the genre holds a bright future for the ever-evolving artist.

www.ioctanemusic.com
www.facebook.com/itsioctanesiiick

TRACK LISTING
1. RULES OF LIFE
2. HELP I PLEASE
3. VANITY WILL COME
4. NUH LOVE INNA DEM
5. PUFF IT
6. NO MORE VIOLENCE
7. SYSTEM A BEAT DEM
8. ZION AWAITS
9. L.O.V.E. Y.O.U
10. MISSING YOU (FT. AGENT SASCO)
11. ONCE MORE
12. THE MASTERS PLAN
13. LOSE A FRIEND
14. ALL WE NEED IS LOVE (FT. TARRUS RILEY)
15. CRYING TO THE NATION
16. SPACE FOR ALL OF US (FT. ALBOROSIE)

STB Series Vol. 44 & 45 Out Nov. 22!

Whether it’s currently on the top of the Jamaican charts, a huge underground seller on the streets or the massive club jam sweeping the dancehalls, Strictly The Best’s annual series provides the hottest catalog of dancehall/reggae music for the fall, winter and new year to come. On November 22, VP Records’ will unleash their latest installments – Strictly The Best Vol. 44 and Vol. 45.

Strictly the Best Vol. 44 rallies the most in-demand roots and lover’s rock singers for a must-have set from artists like Beres Hammond, Tarrus Riley, Gyptian, Queen Ifrica, Freddie McGregor, and Etana, while Strictly the Best Vol. 45 contains the season’s most popular, cutting-edge dancehall anthems, banging in the clubs and on Caribbean radio from the likes of Mavado, Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley, Sean Paul, Bounty Killer, Tifa and Laza Morgan.

"This year's Strictly The Best series also holds a special spot in our hearts because it was the last record our A&R and nephew, Joel Chin, had a hand in, since his passing. Joel was a major driving force in the series’ march to top. As lead A&R, he hand-picked every song and complied the music in a very organic yet strategic manner. He loved the music so much and it showed in his work. This year is no different, and with the help of the rest of our team to complete the project, Strictly The Best Vol 44 and 45 are both one-of-kind collections," states VP Records President Chris Chin.

About Strictly The Best Series
Established in 1993, Strictly The Best is the longest running reggae compilation series in the business. Following the Reggae Gold release, the annual STB series offers a more comprehensive collection of dancehall and roots sounds that have crossover potential and cater to reggae fans alike. Each year, VP carefully compiles a library of most exclusive dancehall/reggae tunes to keep the pace with the biggest Jamaican hits. Showcasing the most buzz-worthy and talented artists, STB series has been the proving ground for many of reggae’s biggest stars including Sean Paul, Mavado, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Capleton and many others. If you want to know what the next big reggae hit is in the streets or on the airwaves, Strictly The Best is the go-to compilation.

STB 44 Track Listing:
1. Shaka Zulu Pickney – Tarrus Riley
2. Pot Still Haffi Bubble – Queen Ifrica
3. People Talk – Etana
4. My Number One – Gyptian
5. Still In Love – Alaine & Christopher Martin
6. Pure As The Nile – I Wayne
7. Firework – Tessanne Chin
8. Driving Me Insane – Chino featuring Denyque
9. Summer Love – Denyque
10. If I Could Fly – Tifa
11. This Time - Jamelody
12. I Am Missing You – Beres Hammond
13. A House Is Not A Home – Freddie McGregor
14. Never Leave I – Tarrus Riley
15. The System – Romain Virgo
16. Yap Yap – Richie Spice

STB 45 Track Listing:
1. One By One – Laza Morgan featuring Mavado
2. Love My Life – Demarco
3. Summertime – Vybz Kartel
4. Ravin - Popcaan
5. Let’s Go – Beenie Man
6. Final Destination – Mavado
7. Every Gyal – Chipmunk featuring Mavado
8. Hot Gyal – Gyptian
9. Got 2 Luv Ya – Sean Paul featuring Alexis Jordan
10. Swaggin WTF!! (Too Bad For You) – Tifa, Future Fambo & Wayne Marshall
11. Dancehall Duppy – Tony Matterhorn
12. Cigarette Murder – Twins of Twins
13. Ready Fi Dem – Bounty Killer
14. God Nah Sleep (Rise And Fall Story) - Chino
15. Wanted (Just Ain’t The Same) - Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley

For further information, please contact:

Tiffany Mea │ With Love PR │Email: tiffany@withlovepr.com, tiffanym@vprecords.com 

Alborosie Wins Best Reggae at 2011 MOBOs!

Sicilian-born reggae artist Alborosie was among the list of winners at the 2011 MOBO Awards held in Glasgow's Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre (SECC) this past Wednesday evening. Alborosie took home the title for Best New Reggae Act, which included other nominees Damian Marley & Nas, Khago and Mavado.

Watch Alborosie thanking his fans and excerpts from his live interview with Oufah Media.

Greensleeves Records’ artist Alborosie is both an in-demand reggae producer and solo artist with massive hits including “Kingston Town,” “Herbalist,” and “Blessing” featuring Etana. His latest studio album ‘2 Times Revolution’ was released in June 2011 and supported by an extensive summer tour throughout the western region of the United States and Europe.

Check out his latest music video “Respect Yourself” featuring Junior Reid!

Alborosie is also featured in the documentary "Journey To Jah,” directed by Noël Dernesch & Moritz Springer, alongside Gentleman and Luciano.

Tune in for the trailer and join the Facebook page.

The Music Of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards were established in 1996 by Kanya King and Andy Ruffell to recognize and celebrate black music. The MOBO Awards is the first black awards show in Europe to create a platform for established and upcoming artists from all countries across the globe. This year ‘s event was hosted by U.S. singer Jason Derulo.

Alborosie will be touring across Europe in November. See full schedule below.

11.15.11 FRANCE / Herouville St Clair / Big Band Café
11.16.11 FRANCE / MERIGNAC / Le Krakatoa 

11.17.11 FRANCE / MONTPELLIER (France) / le Rockstore

 11.18.11 FRANCE / LE MANS (France) / BeBop Festiva

11.19.11 FRANCE / NANCY (France) | L'Autre Canal
11.21.11 FRANCE / VILLEURBANNE (France) / Le Transbordeur

 11.22.11 NETHERLANDS / ROTTERDAM (NL) / Off Corso

11.23.11 NETHERLANDS / UTRECHT (NL) / Tivoli

11.26.11 POLAND / WROCLAW (Poland) / One Love Festival

 11.27.11 FRANCE / TOULOUSE (France) / Le Bikini 

11.28.11 SPAIN / BARCELONA (Spain) / Apolo

11.29.11 FRANCE / PARIS (France) / Cabaret Sauvage

″2 Times Revolution″ is available online and in stores now!

Alborosie's Official Website
Alborosie's Facebook Page
Follow Alborosie on Twitter

17 North Parade Celebrates Reggae Legends

After the passing of two iconic reggae artists last year - Gregory Isaacs (July 15,1951–October 25, 2010) and Sugar Minott (May 25, 1956–July 10, 2010) - 17 North Parade, the vintage imprint of VP Records, pays homage to the artists by capturing the essence of their music on two Reggae Anthology releases - Sugar Minott's Hard Time Pressure (Oct 18) and Gregory Isaacs' The Ruler 1972-1990 (Oct 24). Each collection contains 2 CDs and bonus DVD along with original deluxe packaging that includes extensive liner notes and exclusive archival footage and photos.

On October 18th, 17 North Parade will release Sugar Minott's Reggae Anthology: Hard Time Pressure, highlighting his illustrious recording career that bridged three major eras in reggae: from Studio One to lover’s rock and to the digital dancehall era (where he earned the moniker Godfather of Dancehall). The late singer, producer and sound-system engineer made an inevitable mark on the genre with over 60 albums and cherished anthems including "Herbsman Hustling," "No Vacancy," "Good Thing Going" and "Never Gonna Give Up Jah." The double-disc 36-track set is also accompanied with treasured live video footage of Sugar Minott performing at JapanSplash concert in 1986.

Check out a clip from Sugar Minott’s Hard Time Pressure bonus DVD

Born Lincoln Barrington Minott, Sugar possessed multiple musical talents. The Jamaican native was a prolific songwriter and singer and provided blueprints for the rise of the contemporary dancehall style, where he was equally influential as a producer and his extraordinarily popular sound system and company, Youthman Promotions, that helped launch numerous new djs and artists into the limelight. He worked with Little John, Junior Reid, Tenor Saw, Nitty Gritty, Garnet Silk, Tony Rebel and Johnny Osbourne (to name a few).

TRACK LISTING DISC 1
1. My Love Is True
2. Hard Time Pressure
3. River Jordan
4. Never Gonna Give Jah Up
5. Good Thing Going
6. Never Too Young
7. In The Residence
8. Babylon
9. No Vacancy
10. Ghetto-ology
11. Jah Jah Children
12. Man Hungry
13. Rome
14. The People Got To Know
15. Ghetto Youths
16. Loving Jah
17. Simple As That
18. Christmas Time

TRACK LISTING DISC 2
1. Lover’s Rock
2. Sandy
3. Show Me That You Love Me Girl
4. You’ve Lost It
5. Penny For My Song
6. Now We Know
7. African Girl
8. All Kinda People
9. Easy Squeeze
10. Slice Of The Cake
11. Informer
12. Feel The Rhythm
13. Old King Cole
14. Buy Off The Bar
15. International Herb
16. Herbman Hustling
17. Devil’s Pickney
18. Rub A Dub Sound

DISC 3 – DVD
1. Live in Concert filmed in Japan 1986 - Total Running Time: 23:42



On October 24th, 2011, 17 North Parade commemorates the life and music of Gregory Isaacs with Reggae Anthology: The Ruler 1972-1990, an extensive 40-track collection of Isaacs’ timeless hits, plus a special bonus DVD featuring the iconic reggae veteran singing feverously on stage at The Brixton Academy in 1984. The extraordinary set also features detailed liner notes and rare photographs of Gregory Isaacs during his prime.

Gregory Isaacs, dubbed “The Cool Ruler” for his trademark smoothness and wistful crooning matched with a rebel demeanor and dapper style, was a pivotal pioneer of lovers’ rock music and also created some of the most timeless roots and dancehall anthems throughout his 40-year career. During the 1970s and 1980s, he pumped out album after album with a massive string of hits, including “My Only Lover,” “Let’s Dance,” “Soon Forward” and “Night Nurse.” He even made a small cameo in the classic 1978 reggae film Rockers as the locksmith and later performed his song "Slave Master." He continued to tour across the globe and record throughout the 1990s. This Reggae Anthology chronicles his most crucial hits from 1972-1990 and exudes the essence of this innovative lyricist and exemplifies why he is known The Ruler.

Check out footage from Gregory’s Isaacs Reggae Anthology: The Ruler 1972-1990 Bonus DVD

TRACK LISTING DISC 1
1. My Only Lover
2. Do You Ever
3. All I Have Is Love
4. Lonely Soldier
5. Love Is Overdue
6. Never Be Ungrateful
7. Ba Da
8. The Sun Shines For Me
9. Set The Captives Free
10. My Religion
11. Philistines
12. My Number One
13. Tumbling Tears
14. Special Guest
15. Border
16. Storm
17. Mr. Cop (Extended Mix)
18. Sister Love (Extra Special)
19. My Time
20. Slave Master (Live)

TRACK LISTING DISC 2
1. Let’s Dance
2. John Public
3. Soon Forward
4. Tune In
5. Top Ten
6. Permanent Lover
7. Front Door
8. If I Don’t Have You
9. Night Nurse
10. Private Secretary
11. Let Off Sup’m
12. Private Beach Party
13. Victim
14. One Man Against The World
15. Rumors
16. Red Rose For Gregory
17. Big All Around featuring Dennis Brown
18. Jealousy featuring Jimmy Cliff
19. My Native Woman
20. Too Good To Be True

DISC 3 DVD 1. Live performance – Brixton Academy 1984

FUN FACT: Sugar Minott and Gregory Isaacs were long-time friends and teamed up professionally in 1986 for a split LP entitled, Double Dose, which they co-produced and recorded in Tuff Gong Studios, Dynamic Sounds and Music Mountain.

Romain Virgo Joins Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers

 

Jamaican reggae vocalist, Romain Virgo, made history Monday night as he stepped on stage to perform alongside Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers at the 5th Annual ACM Honors in Nashville's legendary Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, who were the recipients of the Academy of Country Music’s Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award that evening, performed their iconic hit “All The Gold In California,” and invited Romain on stage to sing the island rendition off of Reggae's Gone Country, the genre-bending album produced by John Rich, Cristy Barber and Dean Fraser which debuted at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Album chart and #65 on the Billboard Country Album chart.

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers and Romain Virgo received a standing ovation from the auditorium, which was filled to the brim with fans and country elite including Joe Nichols, Taylor Swift, Reba, Rodney Atkins, Jamey Johnson, Montgomery Gentry, Tom T. Hall, Ronnie Dunn from Brooks and Dunn, John Michael Montgomery and legendary broadcaster Ralph Emery.

Romain expressed his enthusiasm. "I was extremely honored when The Gatlin Brothers invited me to perform at the ACM Honors. To grace the stage with these musical legends and set foot on The Grand Ole Opry stage, country music's church, was a moment in my career that I will never forget," he states. 

I-Wayne Returns with "Life Teachings"!

I Wayne, one of the top conscious roots reggae artists of this generation, is back with Life Teachings, his long-overdue album on VP Records, due October 11. With simplicity and grace, I Wayne’s angelic-tinged vocals flutter effortlessly across these 14 tracks filled with hair-raising lyrics and uncompromising conviction. The intricately-crafted album features organic rhythms rife with rugged basslines and one-drop drumbeats, produced mostly by Patrick Z. Henry, who is responsible for 11 of the album's songs and I-Wayne's breakthrough hit "Can't Satisfy Her."

On Life Teachings, I Wayne rejects materialism (“Wise and Fearless”), predicts the imminent downfall of Babylon (“Burn Down Sodom”), rails against the violence associated with “Drug and Rum Vibes” and successfully ventures into dancehall terrain with “The Fire Song” featuring Assassin (a.k.a. Agent Sasco). Understanding the significance of creating a balance in life as well as in music, several songs on “Life Teachings” display a romantic sensitivity not often seen from I Wayne. “The Nile”, “Empress Divine”, “I Care For You” and “Life Service” each extol women who uphold natural livity (lifestyle). “Life Joy,” produced by Marcus “Icus” Deacon, is a hit bound, sultry R&B flavored duet featuring popular Jamaican songstress Etana. The resplendent roots reggae gem, “Real and Clean” is I Wayne’s sweetly seductive declaration of love set to an irresistible one-drop beat.

Born Cliffroy Taylor, 32 years ago, the Kingston native, captivated fans in 2005 with his debut release Lava Ground and its trilogy of hits, “Can’t Satisfy Her,” “Living In Love” and “Lava Ground;” and in 2007 he released his second album Book Of Life, which also landed on Billboard’s Reggae chart. “Can’t Satisfy Her” is still considered one of the most captivating reggae tunes, which charted to no. 31 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and received heavy rotation at New York’s Hot 97 radio station.

However, this notoriety is not I Wayne’s driving force to make music. He never comprises his message for the sake of a hit record. “There is a preference for nastiness, positive artists don’t get their fair attention. But mi stay calm and remember nature was going on before any business start, so it is better I keep my focus and keep writing these songs, ” states I Wayne.

“Music is life teachings, so you just have to live on and share life’s joys and messages, simple as that,” he adds. Fans can expect to hear exactly that on Life Teachings.

Track Listing:
1. Burn Down Sodom
2. Real and Clean
3. Empress Divine
4. Pure As The Nile
5. Herb Fi Legalize
6. The Fire Song
7. Drugs and Rum Vibes
8. Wise and Fearless
9. Change Them Ways
10. Life Teachings (Ital Sipp'ns)
11. Life Joy Featuring Etana
12. Life Service
13. I Care For You
14. Do The Good 

VP Records Pays Homage to Joel Chin

It is with great sadness that VP Records must announce the passing of Joel Chin at the age of 35. Joel was shot last night (Tuesday, August 16) outside his home in Stony Hill, St. Andrew in Jamaica. The cause is not immediately known.

The grandson of VP Records founder Vincent Chin, son of famed Reggae producer Clive Chin and nephew of the owners of VP Records, Chris and Randy Chin, Joel literally grew up in the Reggae business and put his vast knowledge and connections at the service of the music he loved passionately.

Joining the company in the 90s, Joel was instrumental in launching and fostering the careers of international Reggae stars such as Sean Paul, T.O.K., Beres Hammond, Wayne Wonder, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Morgan Heritage, Tarrus Riley and Etana while creating the top Reggae compilations in the world: "Reggae Gold" and "Strictly The Best". Joel was loved by the creative community in Jamaica and around the world, and has a long standing relationship with some of the top producers in the island such as Dean Fraser and Steven "Lenky" Marsden. Joel's signings helped VP Records become the largest Reggae label in the world and bring Reggae into the mainstream music market culminating with Sean Paul's "Dutty Rock" album which sold over 7 million units worldwide.

An accomplished producer, Joel had moved from New York to Jamaica two years ago to spend more time on music production, songwriting and developing rising talents. Joel wrote hit songs for many artists such as Elephant Man and Etana among many others.

Joel is survived by his mother Juliette, his father Clive, his newborn daughter, two brothers, and three sisters.

Funeral service and arrangements to be announced at a later date.

Media contact: Olivier Chastan oc@vprecords.com +44.7825.720.029

VP to Release 2-CD Gregory Isaacs Tribute

VP Records is proud to announce the double-disc collection, We Remember Gregory Isaacs, available August 16, 2011. Saxophonist and producer Dean Fraser has assembled an all-star cast of contemporay singers and musicians to pay homage to the icon, who The New York Times describes as “the most exquisite vocalist in reggae.”

This week there will be a special live set dedicated to Isaacs at Reggae Sumfest 2011 (the most popular reggae festival held annually in Jamaica). The show will feature live cover performances by legendary and new artists as they celebrate Isaacs' life and music.

"When my friend Gregory passed away last year, I wanted to express my appreciation for our musical association and love for him as a close friend. We’d performed together all over the world through the late ‘70s and ‘80s when I was a member of We The People and later with Sly & Robbie. I decided to do a tribute album, but had no money to produce it. I reached out to the reggae community and was overwhelmed by people's willingness to give their time and talents to make this vision real," explains Fraser.

We Remember Gregory Isaacs presents sixteen of the legendary vocalists’ most loved songs sung by artists including Tarrus Riley, Etana, Romain Virgo, J Boog, Gyptian and Duane Stephenson. Including his classic hits like “Front Door,” “Mr Brown,” “Night Nurse,” “Storm,” “Soon Forward,” “Tune In,” “My Number One,” “The Border,” “Love Is Overdue” and “Red Rose” and obscure favorites such as “My Only Lover” and “Stranger In Town,” the legacy of Gregory Isaacs lives on with this stellar collection. The album also includes extensive liner notes and a bonus disc of instrumental versions by Dean Fraser.

"I recorded the instrumental versions in a day or so. As I listened back to the tracks I felt like adding vocals could be an even greater tribute. Having worked closely with Duane Stephenson and Tarrus Riley they were the first people I called with the idea. When we started voicing, certain artists just seemed right for particular songs so, we went with the vibe. It’s exciting to me that these younger performers will bring Gregory’s music to a whole new generation of reggae fans," Fraser adds.

TRACK LISTING

Disc 1- Vocal selections

1. Front Door – Tarrus Riley
2. Top Ten – Hezron
3. All I Have Is Love – Natel
4. My Number One – Gyptian
5. Mr. Brown – Jah Cure
6. Cool Down The Pace – J Boog
7. My Only Lover – Etana
8. Love Is Overdue – D Major
9. Soon Forward - Cherine Anderson
10. Hard Drugs – Busy Signal
11. Night Nurse – Romain Virgo
12. Storm – Lukie D
13. Stranger In Your Town – Chris Boomer
14. Tune In – Alaine
15. Red Rose For Gregory – Chevaughn
16. The Border – Duane Stephenson

Disc 2 - Dean Fraser & band play disc 1 tracklist.

PR Contact: Tiffany Mea, Tiffany@withlovepr.com, 619-606-1059

Gentleman Set to Release Diversity in U.S.

With six albums under his belt and over one million collectively sold in Europe, the German platinum and award-winning singer Gentleman is long overdue for his U.S. debut. Diversity, set for release on Sept 13, 2011 on VP Records, charted at #1 in Germany as well as #2 in Switzerland and Austria and is the follow-up to his Europe platinum-selling record Confidence.

Gentleman is currently touring Europe in support of the album and plans to embark on a U.S. tour beginning in mid-October throughout the Midwest and West. Details and dates will be announced shortly.

On Diversity, Gentleman stays true to his first musical love - roots reggae - and teams up with top Jamaican recording artists, including reggae lyricist and singer Tanya Stephens, Studio One veteran and dancehall pioneer Sugar Minott, Christopher Martin (Season Two winner of Jamaica’s televised talent competition, Rising Stars ) and producers Don Corelone, Red Roze, Shane Brown, Xterminator and Firehouse Crew.

With new vigor and passion, Gentleman feels renewed on this 14 track set and is ready to take the U.S. by storm. “That fire you feel as a newcomer does not keep up for very long. It is up to you to stoke the embers and this (album) has much more force behind it,” he notes.

One may not assume that the Cologne native and son of a Lutheran pastor would become an international reggae superstar, but Gentleman (born Tilmann Otto in 1975) has been drawn to reggae’s revolutionary spirit and truth-seeking lyrics ever since he was introduced to the island’s sounds. He immersed himself in the culture and music at the age of 18, making Jamaica his home away from home.

In 1997, he eventually got his first break with German hip-hip group, Freundeskreis, after delivering a verse on single “Tabula Rasa” with his distinctive singjay style. Since then, Gentleman has had a string of solo hits and platinum-selling records in Europe. He won Best National Artist five times for three different award shows (Echo Award 2003 & 2005, Comet Award 2005, 1Live Radio Award 2004 & 2005) and has been nominated twice for Best Reggae Artist (Martin 2004 Awards and Reggae and Soca Awards). He has collaborated with artists ranging from pop superstars Pink and Destiny’s Child to reggae legends Michael Franti & Spearhead and Barrington Levy. After over a decade under the label Four Music, he moved to Universal in 2010 and will release Diversity in the U.S. with VP Records this fall.

Track Listing:

1. The Reason
2. Changes
3. Hold On Strong
4. Tempolution
5. To The Top ft. Christopher Martin
6. Lonely Days
7. In A Time Like Now
8. Moment Of Truth
9. Another Melody ft. Tanya Stephens
10. I Got To Go
11. Good Old Days ft. Sugar Minott
12. Fast Forward
13. The Finish Line
14. It No Pretty

PR Contact: Tiffany Mea, Tiffany@withlovepr.com, 619-606-1059

Big Donation From 'Reggae 4 Japan'

Krista Henry, The Gleaner 

Reggae 4 Japan dug deep and raised US $25,000 (JA $2,136,249.92) for the American Red Cross' Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief Effort. 

Held at the York College in Queens, New York, on June 5, Reggae 4 Japan is the charity show organised by Japanese Sound Mighty Crown, their management Irish and Chin, alongside VP Records. 

A month later, the numbers are in and a pleased team of organisers officially handed over US $25,000 to the Red Cross last Thursday at their headquarters in New York. The concert saw the Jamaican entertainment fraternity uniting to assist Japan after the earthquake and resulting tsunami that devastated the country on March 11. Recorded as 9.0 on the Richter scale, it was the most powerful quake ever to hit the country. 

The concert saw the likes of reggae's 'who's who' including Freddie McGregor with his sons Chino and Stephen McGregor, Maxi Priest, Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley, Gramps and Peetah Morgan, Duane Stephenson, Mr Vegas, Capleton, and more. A total of 18 artistes performed, including three surprise acts such as the reclusive Shabba Ranks and rapper Nas. The show afforded fans with top-notch entertainment from each artiste involved and managed to fill to capacity the York College's auditorium which seats 1,200 persons. 

Elegant affair 

"I am proud that reggae artistes came together in such a valiant way to support their brothers and sisters in Japan, who suffered greatly because of the earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011," says Garfield 'Chin' Bourne of Irish and Chin. "Reggae 4 Japan was an elegant affair and a success on many fronts but the most significant was that of the reggae community, who unselfishly lent a hand to raise money and awareness for Japan during a time of need." 

VP's Patricia Chin was also pleased with the results of the show. She told The Gleaner, "I wasn't able to attend the show as I had previous engagements; however, my family attended and they were very satisfied with the outcome of the show. We want to thank everyone who got involved and poured out their hearts for this worthy cause. We sincerely give sympathy and love to the Japan people and hope that very soon they can smile again." 

Japan is one of the world's largest consumers of reggae music with many local artistes establishing connections with Japan and its people. Masta Simon, co-owner of Mighty Crown added, "The success of Reggae 4 Japan means so much to me and the country of Japan. The overwhelming support of Reggae 4 Japan by the artistes, their management teams and Reggae music fans almost left me with a shear loss for words on the night of the event. I am ever so thankful for what reggae music did for Japan financially and as a source of encouragement and motivation." 

According to the organisers, Reggae 4 Japan is one of many steps they will take during the course of the year to support Japan relief efforts. With Reggae 4 Japan now under their belts, they are anxious to identify future fund-raising opportunities.

The Biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2011

(VP/GREENSLEEVES RECORDS, NEW YORK) – Globally known for featuring the top roots reggae hits that are dominating the charts worldwide, The Biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2011 delivers exactly that when it hits stores on July 12, 2011 fromGreensleeves Records. 

Featuring reggae dynamites such as Midnite, Gentleman, Tony Rebel, Bunny Lee, Queen Ifrica, Gyptian, Busy Signal, Alborosie, I-Wayne and Romain Virgo, to name just a few of the talents featured on this hit collection, The Biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2011 also showcases Vybz Kartel’s first major release on a reggae melody. 

With one-drop smashes like “How To Answa” by Midnite, “Changes” from Gentleman, The Green with “Alone,” Gyptian on “Where You Belong” featuring the legendary Dean Fraser, Busy Signal on a remake of Beres Hammond’s “Tempted To Touch,” “I’m Rich In Love” from rising star Romain Virgo, and Vybz Kartel on “Spend Time Dubb’n” (which incorporates dub), The Biggest One Drop Anthems 2011 highlights Greensleeves’ on-going efforts to provide authentic reggae vibes on its compilations, and bring them to the reggae massive, worldwide. 

TRACK LISTING 

1. How To Answa - Midnite

2. Rasta Chant - J.O.E. 

3. Real and Clean - I-Wayne 

4. Since You Came In - Copper Cat 

5. Bleaching Shop - Esco Levi

6. I Can't Recall - Tony Rebel

7. I Am Rich In Love - Romain Virgo 

8. Cow Shit Splash (The Origin Of The One Drop) - Bunny Lee 

9. Put The Stereo On - Gappy Ranks 

10. Where You Belong - Gyptian ft. Dean Fraser 

11. Tempted To Touch - Busy Signal 

12. Wha This Pon Me - Romain Virgo 

13. Spend Time Dubb'n - Vybz Kartel 

14. Alone - The Green 

15. Changes - Gentleman 

16. It Hard - Queen Ifrica 

17. International Drama - Alborosie ft. Guiseppe Tarantino

Please direct all press inquiries for Biggest One Drop Reggae Anthems 2011 to the VP Records Publicity Department - Tiffany Mea at 718-425-1151 or tifflove@gmail.com.