Interview – Zack Reed (Rebel Sound Records) | Reggae Lover Podcast Episode 111

Listen to the precious gems dropped by my guest, Zack Reed, CEO of Rebel Sound Records, and top man at EN Young‘s Roots Musician Records.

When I asked Zack which of his upcoming projects we need to look out for, his response took about ten minutes because the list was so long.

Listen to gems dropped by my guest, Zack Reed, CEO of Rebel Sound Records, and General at EN Young's Roots Musician Records.  I was amazed at how long the list was when I asked Zack what upcoming projects people need to look out for.  Reggae Lover Podcast Episode 111  Apple Podcast (iTunes)

Click image to download the interview.

IHEARTRADIO: LISTEN AND FOLLOW HERE.

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DJ Ted Ganung (Dub Rockers) Interview | Reggae Lover Podcast Episode 106

I talked to Ted Ganung, the label manager for VP Records’ Dub Rockers imprint.

I talked to Ted Ganung, the man behind the VP Records' Dub Rockers imprint. Our conversation touched on: early reggae influences in Hawaii,  cultural appropriation,  the dominance of the Marley brand,  favorite reggae songs/artists,  music business advice, current and upcoming projects.

Click image to download interview mp3 audio.

Our conversation touched on:
  • early reggae influences in Hawaii,
  • cultural appropriation,
  • the dominance of the Marley brand,
  • favorite reggae songs/artists,
  • music business advice,
  • current and upcoming projects.

IHEARTRADIO: LISTEN AND FOLLOW HERE.

STITCHER RADIO: SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN HERE.

GOOGLE PLAY MUSIC: SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN HERE.

TUNE IN RADIO: FAVORITE AND LISTEN HERE.

SOUNDCLOUD: CLICK TO DOWNLOAD OR PLAY EPISODE.

APPLE PODCASTS: SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN VIA ITUNES.

 

Top Reggae Star Gyptian Leaves the VP Record Label

Reggae Super-Star, Gyptian, announced his departure from VP Records due to the expiration of his contract.

Reggae Super Star Gyptian Leaves VP Records Music Group

Reggae star Gyptian

The ultra successful Reggae / Dancehall artist, who delivered Billboard topping albums ‘My Name is Gyptian’ in 2006, ‘I Can Feel Your Pain’ in 2008, ‘Hold You’ in 2010 and ‘Sex, Love, and Reggae’ in 2013, as well as earned multiple international awards and a gold-selling single, has reached the decision to move on from his lengthy stay with the label. “It has been a great journey with special memories made and I’m thankful for all the opportunities, but unfortunately I have decided to part ways with VP Music Group.”

The contract offered a clause in which VP Music Group could renew the option to continue making music with Gyptian, and after two years, the artist and his management team realized that this option will not be renewed. From a legal perspective “VP Records for more than two years has failed to render the payment option and operated with malicious intent in its refusal to comply with its contractual obligation.”

As Gyptian embraces the beginning of a new musical chapter in his life, he’s eager to get in the studio and make music under his own label, Ryte Dyrekshan Records. “It’s time I get back to doing what I love which is making music, and time for my fans to hear from me again so I can get out the road and see them. They’ve been asking and begging for new music – time to make that happen.”

One of reggae's emerging masters of dubwise producon, Alborosie

Alborosie’s new album, “Freedom & Fyah” now available

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One of reggae’s emerging masters of dubwise production, Alborosie has honed his craft through the creation of six studio albums.

Alborosie - Freedom & Fyah - Artwork

Alborosie – Freedom & Fyah – Artwork

Along the way, he has become the biggest selling European roots reggae artist. His latest album, “Freedom & Fyah” demonstrates his production skill and depth of feel with 13 contemporary and authentic reggae jams. All tracks are produced and performed by Alboroise.

Alborosie - press pic

Alborosie – Freedom & Fyah

Featured performers include Ky-Mani Marley on the ballad and Protoje on the track “Strolling” and reggae legends, the Roots Radics band on the track “Everything featuring Pupa Avril.” Stand out tracks include “Poser

which has chalked up over 1 million YouTube views and “Rocky Road

which is up to 500k YouTube views. Alborosie’s YouTube channel puppaALBO has 17k subscribers.

“Urban Poet,” new album from Junior Kelly now available

Junior Kelly is back with his new album “Urban Poet” in stores October 9th.

Junior Kelly - Urban Poet - Artwork

Junior Kelly – Urban Poet – Artwork

The 16 track album presents some of the many influences in Junior Kelly’s music; reggae, dancehall, RnB and jazz. Kelly displays a matured artistry in his voice and lyrics that has developed over his extensive recording career. The first single and video is “No Dig It Up” has over 30,000 views and growing on line.

Other features include the RnB infused “In Love,” the soul searching “Mile In My Shoe” and the Jazzy “Hooked on Mary.” Urban poet will take you on a musical high. Download the album now.

New Single from African Reggae star PatoRanking: Daniella Whine

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Patoranking - Daniella Whine - Artwork

Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie (born 27 May 1990), better known by his stage name Pato Ranking, is a Nigerian reggae-dancehall singer and songwriter. Patoranking, who is a descendant of Ebonyi, started his musical career doing underground collaborations with artists such as XProject, Konga, Slam and Reggie Rockstone.

He signed a record deal with K-Solo‘s Igberaga Records in 2010, releasing “Up in D Club” under the outfit. Patoranking became a protégé of Dem Mama Records after collaborating with Timaya on his song “Alubarika”. In February 2014, he signed a record deal with Foston Musik and released “Girlie O”, a single that put him in the limelight.  On 9 February 2015, Patoranking signed a distribution deal with VP Records.

VP Records Reggae Gold 2015 to Hit Stores in July 2015

Various Artists: Reggae Gold 2015 Genre: Reggae   Label: VP Records   Release Date: 17 July 2015

Reggae Gold 2015 – Artwork

Featuring Beres Hammond, Ikaya, Queen Ifrica, Yasha, Jah Cure and more, look out for various artists compilation album Reggae Gold 2015 which VP Records has slated for a release date of July 17.

The release of Various Artists Compilation: Soca Gold 2015

1. Raze - Fay-Ann Lyons 3:50 2. Party Done - Angela Hunte ft. Machel Montano 3:16 3. Our Time - Bunji Garlin 4:58 4. Ah Feeling - Lead Pipe & Saddis 3:48

Soca Gold 2015 – Artwork

Just in time for summer enjoyment Soca Gold 2015 featuring Fay-Ann Lyons,  Angela Hunte, Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin, Lead Pipe & Saddis, and more will be officially released on June 30th.

Tasha T wins for Best Caribbean Style at the Black Canadian Awards

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Congratulations to Tasha T on winning in the “Best Caribbean Style”category of the prestigious “Black Canadian Awards” that took place on Saturday, June 6, 2015! The award was presented at a Black Tie gala hosted at the Queen Ann Theatre in Toronto, Canada.

  Decked out in a drop-dead couture outfit the inspired creation of  Canadian based "Dab Design" Tasha T looked stunning throughout the evening. When interviewed about this latest honor the petite songstress known for her big voice and conscious lyrics said "more than anyone could imagine I am extremely thankful to the Black Canadian Awards Committee for recognizing and nominating me for the award.  She went on to say that "I work non-stop writing to create statement music that hopefully will make a difference in the lives of all listeners and touring to promote my message. This award strengthens my energy and resolve to continue moving in the direction that I am headed, up-up-up!"

TASHA T WINS FOR BEST CARIBBEAN STYLE AT THE BLACK CANADIAN AWARDS

Arriving by a stretch limousine, an excited Tasha T stepped onto the red carpet looking radiant and was meet by adoring friends and fans. Following the announcement of her win Tasha T’s acceptance speech began with thanks to JAH for the many blessings she has received with further expressions of love to her family and deep gratitude to all the fans who took the time to vote for her. She also took time to express her gratitude to the RasVibe Records management team and to VP Records for their continual support.

Decked out in a drop-dead couture outfit the inspired creation of  Canadian based “Dab Design” Tasha T looked stunning throughout the evening. When interviewed about this latest honor the petite songstress known for her big voice and conscious lyrics said “more than anyone could imagine I am extremely thankful to the Black Canadian Awards Committee for recognizing and nominating me for the award.”  She went on to say that “I work non-stop writing to create statement music that hopefully will make a difference in the lives of all listeners and touring to promote my message. This award strengthens my energy and resolve to continue moving in the direction that I am headed, up-up-up!

Alborosie Meets King Jammy: Dub Of Thrones

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Alborosie Meets King Jammy - Dub Of Thrones - Artwork

Alborosie Meets King Jammy – Dub Of Thrones – Artwork

VP Records/ Greensleeves announced the April 2015 worldwide release of Alborosie Meets King Jammy- Dub Of Thrones, a historic pairing of one of Jamaica’s most pivotal dub legends King Jammy with the modern Italian-born dubmaster Alborosie. Mixed by Alborosie at his Shengen studio and King Jammy at his studio in the Waterhouse district of Kingston, this old-school meets new-school dub battle delivers an authentic dub reggae listening experience.

The album’s throwback style and packaging captures the 1980’s reggae era and includes a fully-illustrated package by Tony McDermott, one of the illustrators of that time and today. The mostly instrumental collection will be available on CD, limited edition vinyl LP and digitally.

Alborosie and King Jammy plan to tour in support of this release throughout the summer. Dates will be announced shortly.

Christopher Martin’s “I’m A Big Deal” EP produced by Troy “Troyton” Hinds

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Christopher Martin - Steppin Razor (EP) - Artwork

Christopher Martin – Steppin Razor (EP) – Artwork

Jamaican reggae crooner Christopher Martin released his much-anticipated debut (EP) “Steppin Razor” on April 21st. The 5-song digital-only release balances sweetness, swagger, and sex appeal while showcasing Chris’s versatility and vocal excellence.

Steppin Razor TRACK LISTING:
1. Steppin Razor
2. I’m A Big Deal
3. We Are The Vibes
4. Secret Love (Creep)
5. Hide Away

2015 Various Artists New Release: Soca Arena

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Various Artists: Soca Arena

Various Artists – Soca Arena – Artwork

As excitement for Caribbean carnival season builds, everyone’s looking for the latest songs to run the road. Soca Arena, the new compilation from VP Records presents prime contenders form Soca’s hottest artists and producers. Kick off your carnival with these jump up winners!

Reggae Singer Luciano, Greatest Hits Highlighted

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luci

We salute a living legend, reggae singer Luciano who has released 21 studio albums over the course of a brilliant 22 year career. One of my favorite artists and live performers, Luciano gained prominence around the world during the “Rastafari renaissance” in dancehall that took place in the mid-late 1990s. He established himself as a name synonymous with roots reggae and became one the sub-genre’s pillars.

This 1 hour mix of 42 songs focuses heavily on Luciano’s material from Where There Is Life, and Messenger, which were albums produced by Phillip “Fattis” Burrell and his Xterminator label. His latest album,The Qabalah Man, was released on the 29th of November 2013. Please support this phenomenally talented artist by buying his music/merchandise and patronizing his live concerts. You will not be disappointed.

Luciano Playlist

After All (album)

After All (album) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1 Intro
2 Guess Whats Happening
3 Never Give Up My Pride
4 Final Call
5 Jah Is My Navigator
6 Sweet Jamaica
7 Business Lock
8 Jah Lives
9 If There Was No God
10 Good God
11 Skank If You Skanking
12 Sweep Over My Soul
13 Should I Slumber
14 Come Away
15 Level Up The Unity
16 Glory Be
17 Wicked Haffi Run Away
18 Where There is Life
19 Shake It Up Tonight
20 In This Together
21 Messenger
22 Peace My Brethren Peace
23 Punchline 24 Jah Kingdom featuring Capleton
25 Give Praise/Jah Blessing (dub plate)
26 Who Could It Be
27 Love Jah and Live
28 Ulterior Motive
29 One Way Ticket
30 Oh Father I Love You
31 What We Gonna Do featuring Buju Banton
32 We Be Alright featuring Buju Banton
33 Heaven Help Up All
34 How Can You?
35 Thank You Lord (dub plate)
36 He Is My Friend
37 As the Beat Goes On
38 Win or Lose
39 Your World and Mine
40 Lord Give Me Strength
41 Jah Jah Never Let Me Down
42 Write My Name

Eddie Murphy: Oh Jah Jah

Eddie Murphy - Oh Jah Jah - Artwork

Eddie Murphy – Oh Jah Jah – Artwork

VPAL Music, VP Records’ subsidiary label and distribution arm for reggae music teams up with the revered comedian/actor/singer Eddie Murphy to release his new single “Oh Jah Jah,” which became available January 27, 2015.

This song is not the first time Eddie Murphy has dabbled in the genre. “Oh Jah Jah” follows his 2013 collab “Red Light” feat. Snoop Lion.

Murphy penned and co-produced “Oh Jah Jah,” which was recorded and mixed at Soul Mountain Studios in Beverly Hills, CA. Ralph Hawkins Jr. and Trenten Gumbs also had a hand in the production.

Rolling Stone chats with Eddie Murphy and gets the exclusive scoop about the new single. Read more here.

Listen to Eddie Murphy’s “Oh Jah Jah” single now.

Etana’s 2014 Album “I Rise” is Absolutely Unbelievable!!

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Etana - I Rise - Artwork

Etana – I Rise – Artwork

Congratulations to Etana on the release of her 4th studio album ‘I Rise‘ which is quite simply a masterpiece – the best work thus far from this talented singer.  Etana’s captivating vocals shine as listeners are taken on a journey to musical heaven.

Songs like “Emancipation,” “I Rise,” and “Stepping Out of Babylon” rally the righteous troops.  There is encouragement offered in “On My Way,” while the social commentary laden “How Long” poses serious questions to the powers that be about their disregard for the underprivileged.

The sweet melodies of Etana’s powerful voice mesmerize with sultry delivery on “Love Song,” and reassuring confidence on “By Your Side.”  On the black women’s anthem “Jamaican Woman,” we are reminded that the meaning of Etana’s name itself is the strong one, while “Selassie Is The Chapel.” and “Jah Jah,” are food for the soul.

All 15 tracks were produced to perfection by the living legend Clive Hunt together with internationally acclaimed instrumentalists including the great Sly and Robbie.  I Rise would not disappoint as a gift for this holiday season and is an essential pick for and reggae collection.

Download Album on iTunes: I Rise – Etana.

Purchase Album CD on Amazon: Etana – I Rise.

Preview Reggae Gold 2014 Various Artists Compilation

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Reggae Gold 2014 contains commercial radio hits, core reggae winners, critical favorites and exclusive picks for the ultimate summer reggae groove.

Various Artists - Reggae Gold 2014 - Artwork

Various Artists – Reggae Gold 2014 – Artwork

“Jack Hammer” is the summertime hit from QQ (“One Drop”), already a hit in the Caribbean and now breaking through in the States. The track is supported by consistent club play and a strong social media campaign through YouTube videos and Instagram @qqworld.

“Richest Girl” is the lead single off of Etana‘s forthcoming album, I Rise (autumn 2014, VP Records). Produced by legendary Jamaican arranger/composer/producer/multi-instrumentalist Clive Hunt, “Richest Girl” is a song about recognizing the truly important things in life, with the “Strong One” voicing the sentiment “I could lose it all, but one thing that is true, if I wake up next to you, I’m the richest girl.”

Fay Ann Lyons new hit “Catch Me” is primed to take the Soca Queen to whole other level.  Already getting play with Caribbean outlets, the lead single from her debut VP Records album showcases the vocalist against an EDM flavor that is catching on everywhere.

The No More War Riddim, featuring Gyptian

the No More War Riddim, featuring Gyptian

Artwork for the No More War Riddim,

For an uplifting experience, check out these singles from the new “No More War” riddim, in stores now.

 

Carnival Vibes Various Artists Compilation Album: Soca Gold 2014

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Various Artists - Soca Gold 2014 - Artwork

Various Artists – Soca Gold 2014 – Artwork

For almost two decades, VP Records has been bringing the annual Soca Gold series to the masses. The top-selling compilation has been the ultimate Carnival soundtrack from the Caribbean islands.  Featured on this album are songs by Kerwin Du Bois, Lil Rick, Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Biggie Irie, Farmer Nappy, Patrice Roberts, Benjai and many more.

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“Word and Honor” from Vocal and Lyrical Champion Chrisinti

Rastafarian reggae singer, Chrisinti, who’s magnificently performed cover of Angie Stone‘s No More Rain (In This Cloud) was featured on VP RecordsStrictly the Best, Vol. 28 compilation album has released a new single called “Word and Honor.”  Preview the song below.

Reggae singer CHRISINTI

Reggae singer CHRISINTI

His recent hit entitled “Heart of a Champion” and the latest release “Word and Honor” have been getting favorable reviews on Reggae radio programs worldwide.

Music video for “Heart of a Champion

CHRISINTI SOCIAL MEDIA

Twitter  Facebook

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Reggae reissue label Blood and Fire resurrected via VP alliance

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US-based reggae label VP Records is resurrecting former British reggae independent Blood And Fire, with the indie’s former A&R chief Steve Barrow on board to run it.

Blood and Fire Logo

VP Records Relaunches Classic Reggae Label Blood and Fire

Blood and Fire was known primarily for its quality reissues of Jamaican recordings from the 1970s and ’80s, many of which were overlooked upon their initial release.

photo: Gregory Isaacs release on Blood and Fire label

The initial VP/Blood and Fire collaboration will be a (vinyl only) limited edition 12″ of Gregory Isaacs’ 1978 single “Mr. Know It All,” scheduled for release on Record Store Day (Apr. 19).

 

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