The Congos Reunion N American Tour Summer 2006 With Everton Blender and Tasha T

The Origonal Congo’s and Everton Blender will be touring Europe late April to mid-May, and then doing the US until late June, and then Europe again until early July when they return to the US to cover the remaining part of North America. The Congos continue their legacy supporting their new Explorer Recordings release - Cock Mouth Kill Cock - on which they are re- united with the origonal Congos vocal trio- Cedric Myton, Watty Barnett and Roydell “Shanty Roy” Johnson. Fans are in for a special treat seeing in the flesh the origonal vocal trio who voiced Heart of the Congos, the legendary reggae masterpiece recorded thirty years ago. In Europe, the re-release of Heart of the Congos sold over 300,000 units. The Congos are some of the living legends in the history of roots reggae music with their conscious lyrics and unique vocal sound.

Everton Blender is touring to support his new release- My Time, also on Explorer recordings. He is touring with two female vocalists on background vocals including his daughter, Iesha Blender, who opens her father’s set with some strong original songs of her own. Several of Blender’s hits, such as “Lift Up your Head,” “Ghetto People Song” and “Family Man” have risen to worldwide anthem status helping to give people hope in all walks of life - especially the poor and needy. Giving to the poor in spirit is a key to paradise. Blender is an exceptional, no- compromise lyricist who lives the part he writes about. When Blender performs, one quickly recognizes that his works are from the heart. His message is one of commitment to Godly principles and good living amongst people. He is an uncompromising rastaman, consistently hitting the market for the cause of the people. Musically he is also a specially gifted vocalist with a unique style of his own.

This tour carries an entourage of thirteen people, also featuring the up and coming female artist Tasha T. Tasha T. has received numerous music awards in eastern Canada including Best Female DJ and is touring in support of her latest release on Explorer Recordings entitled Tasha T. All true reggae lovers should be sure not to miss this classic roots reggae package when it comes to their neighborhood.

For bookings contact Peter Wardle – King’s Music International – at (510) 326-8445, or online at reggaeangl@aol.com.

Biography: Congos
The Congos came together in 1977 to record Heart of the Congos with Lee “Scratch” Perry. The vocalists on this project included Cedric Myton, Roydel “Ashanti” Johnson and Wadi Burnett. They are known as Cedric, Watty and Shanty. The Congos made their name with this monumental recording, which was released in 1977. Reggae historian Steve Barrow, one of the people behind the exquisite reissue of this long-thought-lost record, considers it as good as seminal reggae recordings such as Bob Marley and the Wailers' Natty Dread, Burning Spear's Marcus Garvey, and the Mighty Diamonds' Right Time. This is not an exaggeration. Myton, Burnett and Johnson, working with Lee Perry at his Black Ark Studios in Kingston created a masterpiece, one of (if not the) finest production job of Perry's long and prolific career.

Their new CD, “Cock Mouth Kill Cock” releasing worldwide on Explorer Recordings March 2006, brings together the original voices of the Congo’s that blended together to make their masterpiece Heart of the Congos, in 1977. The songs on this new CD use original recording of rhythms of the 60’s and 70’s era, straight from the archives of Hit producer Bunny “Striker” Lee. This project features the reunion of all of the original members of The Congos - Cedric, Watty and Shanty. Man proposes and God disposes. In this case, it’s great to see the reunion of an exceptional vocal trio that has made history.

Biography: Everton Blender
One of the few Jamaican singers to truly bridge the gap between the roots and dancehall reggae styles is Everton "Blender." When reggae fans hear the opening notes of "Lift Up Your Head," "Ghetto People Song" or "Blend Dem," they instantly recognize these songs as major cultural anthems of our time. The large number of hits Everton has accrued is most impressive.

Everton Dennis Williams was born in the parish of Clarendon, Jamaica, but grew up in Kingston 13 on Maxfield Avenue. He worked as a painter, construction worker and decorator, but he realized that the strong chemicals he was working with were not good for his voice or his health in general. With divine help and direction, he decided to leave his job to pursue a singing career.

In 2001, Blender released Visionary (HB 254), consisting of his trademark conscious commitment over sizzling roots and dancehall self-productions. With guest appearances by Beenie Man, Anthony B, Tony Rebel, and Marcia Griffiths, along with Everton's own strong performance, the album garnered favorable reviews throughout the music press. 2001 and 2002 also marked excellent touring years for Blender, in which he headlined several major reggae events.

King Man (HB 258), released in 2002, represents another installment in Blender's legacy of excellent reggae music. In 2005 Blender did a two-month North American tour with America’s Reggae Angels and July 2005 marks the release of My Time, his latest album on Explorer Records. It’s a strong album from beginning to end. Don’t miss him when he passes through your area.

Junior Reid and Regga Angels Western Tour and Victoria Ska and Northwest World Reggae Festivals

After a successful month-long tour April and May of 2005, Junior Reid and the Reggae Angels had a top performance at Reggae on the River August 2005, and Headlined The Dreadstock Festival in Vallejo CA, and also headlined the stadium Rocktober festivals on four of the Hawaii Islands. Now, a year later they embark on the road again to do a tour of festivals and club dates.

Junior Reid has a new CD called "Clean Up Your Heart", soon to be released.  He has recently toured Japan, South America, and the US east and west coasts.  Several of Reid's hits such as "One Blood", "Mashing Up the Earth" and "Fit You Haffi Fit" have risen to anthem status. Junior Reid first won the hearts of people around the world as the lead vocalist for Black Uhuru.  He has matured and gained strength as an artist performing internationally as well as producing other artists in his One Blood recording studio in Kingston, Jamaica.  Junior Reid is a top festival performer with athletic showmanship and melodic phrasing. His message inspires people from all walks of life and he is a mentor to many Rasta enthusiasts.  Junior is truly a man of the people always in demand.  On the most recent American tour, the shows were consistently well attended.

Within the last couple years, the Reggae Angels completed a 50-city tour with Andrew Tosh (son of Reggae icon Peter Tosh), a 21- city tour with Junior Reid, a 9-city tour with the Abyssinians, a 9-week tour covering North America and Canada co-billed with Everton Blender, and another month-long tour with Junior Reid. After working the festival circuit, they did their fourth trip to Hawaii within a year where they co-billed with and backed Frankie Paul, who now resides in Gambia, Africa.  It's been a hard, busy schedule.  They have toured consistently since the mid-90's, bringing their spiritually uplifting message to the people.  They are well loved.  Lyrically their music affirms such qualities as generosity, balance and gratitude.  The Reggae Angels have one of the most extensive discographies of any American Reggae band.  Now touring with their 13th and latest release - Make Blessings, on the Explorer Recordings Label- the Reggae Angels should not be missed when they come to your area.

For bookings contact Peter Wardle King's Music International at (510) 326-8445, or online at reggaeangl@aol.com.

Biography: Junior Reid

To date, Jamaican-born singer Junior Reid, a devout Rastafarian regarded by many as a messenger from Jah, is best known for the hit singles 'Foreign Mind', 'One Blood', 'Boom Shak-a-Lak' and 'Listen to the Voices'. He also served as the lead singer for the Grammy Award-winning Reggae group Black Uhuru.

Born on the 6th of June, Delroy "Junior" Reid grew up in the Waterhouse
district of West Kingston. Junior began his career at an early age, gaining his initial inspiration from a tough upbringing. He recorded his first single 'Know Myself' at age fourteen for the late singer Hugh Mundell, released in the U.K. on the Greensleeves label. He then went on to form his own band, The Voice of Progress, and after a local hit with 'Minibus Driver' the group's success was established with the album of the same name.

At the age of eighteen, Junior was asked to join Black Uhuru as lead singer.  The group completed their transformation to international status while he was a member, nominated twice for a Grammy Award in the Reggae category.
 
After many changes in the music business and an agreed separation among the members of Black Uhuru, Junior returned to the solo arena and started his own production company, J.R. Productions.

Once again a solo artist, he recorded a number of songs for J.R. Productions and Sugar Minott's Youth Promotion label, enjoying considerable popularity with tracks such as 'Human Nature', 'A-1 Lover, 'Uplifting' and 'Proud Statement'.

1988 saw the release of Junior's first solo album, One Blood. The 'One Blood' single was remixed by Paul "Trouble" Anderson and released worldwide on Big Life/Mercury Records. That track and 'Long Road' received nominations for the prestigious Caribbean Music Awards and the Jamaica Music Industry Awards. He won awards for Best Album, Best Single, Best Song and Most Conscious Lyrics at the Jamaica Music Industry Awards. The follow-up to One Blood was the album Visa, which was distributed by the Greensleeves and Ras labels in addition to his J.R. Productions label.

During his music career Junior Reid has performed around the globe from Bermuda to Japan. He has proven to be a durable and popular entertainer on the world stage. In 1993, after a winning performance in Jamaica at the Montego Bay Superfest he toured Europe alongside Sugar Minott, the 809 Band, and Dub poet Mutabaruka.  Junior was also featured in the biggest one-night show in Jamaica, the Sting, from 1996 to '98.  Following exceptional performances at Sting and other shows he was offered a starring role in the Jamaican film 'Klash', produced by Billy Parker.

In 1997 Junior produced the album True World Order. He performed on the True World Order Tour in the United States and United Kingdom. He also teamed up with Busta Rhymes and Bounty Killa to record the hit single 'Change Like the Weather'. He recorded the single 'Dreadful Day' with rappers Poor Righteous Teachers and, joined by the artist Cannibus, recorded the song 'Frounsi Sound Bwoy' for the Universal label. 

Throughout his career he has done numerous interviews for television, radio and newspapers and performed extensively internationally.  In a producing role, Junior has lent his talents to various other artists. Early on he worked with Dennis Brown, Gregory lsaacs and the Mighty Diamonds to name few. More recently he has produced Andrew & 'Wada Blood (his sons), Elephant Man, Delly Ranks, Luciano and Anthony B.  Reid has worked closely with Rap artists such as Wu Tang Clan, Goroo from Gangstar, the Absolute Beginners (from Germany) and Cold Cut. 

In the year 2000 Mr. Reid/J.R. Productions distributed the 'Emanuel Calling' album, featuring the songs 'Mashing Up the Earth', 'John Law' and 'Trod Up A-Zion'. He toured the United States and Caribbean, garnering raves.  In 2002 Rasta Government was released. Lost Vinyl Classics was released in 2005. Junior has a new album finished, soon to be released. With his incisive, prophetic lyrics and unstinting support for the ghetto man, Junior remains a powerful roots artist well known and loved worldwide.  

Biography: Reggae Angels
             
Currently based in the San Francisco, Calif. East Bay, the Reggae Angels have been touring the last decade in the U.S., Hawaii, Canada and South America.   They are well loved and respected.  They've taken the message to many different markets.  Top international artists have had the Reggae Angels back them, including Don Carlos, Horace Andy, Michael Rose, Big Youth, The Abyssinians, Edi Fitzroy, Bernard Collins, Carlton & The Shoes, Junior Murvin, Clinton Fearon, Everton Blender, Sugar Minott, Andrew Tosh,  Junior Reid and Frankie Paul.   They have consistently met the needs of world-class performers touring with them to the far reaches.

The Reggae Angels vocalists are Fenton Wardle, Cynthia Roots and Nasambu Wamalwa. Lead vocalist and bandleader Fenton Wardle started playing for the public at the age of twelve, playing his accordion in the streets in San Francisco. In 1982 Fenton fronted his first band Ily in New Hampshire, where he attended Dartmouth and graduated in 1984. In 1986 he formed a band on the West Coast called The Chosen Few. In 1989 the band re-formed as The Elevations. Fenton sang lead and harmony vocals and played keyboards. With the Elevations, he produced two albums- Jah Guide and Good Judgment. In 1992 Fenton left the Elevations and started the Reggae Angels.

For his Reggae Angels unit, Fenton has produced Guard the Honor, Jealousy, Truth and Conviction, Spirit, Signs and Wonders, Which Road Will You Choose, Live Positive, Come To Jah, Save Our Souls, A Heart With Love, Balance and Make Blessings. Augustus Pablo is featured playing melodica and synthesizer on the earlier works, adding his melodious far eastern sound. The early mixing was done in Jamaica with some of the top engineers including Sylvan Morris, David Rowe, Soljie, Dr. Marshall and Hugh Palmer. Scientist mixed the next four CDs in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.  Balance and Make Blessings were mixed at Lion and Fox recording studios in Alexandria, Virginia by Jim Fox. The Reggae Angels have one of the most prolific catalogues of any American based reggae band, including 13 CDs and numerous dubs.

Fans of reggae know The Angels deliver high-energy performances with a happy, uplifting sound and sincere message. Their music speaks of God consciousness --- beneficial truths for humanity. The lyrics are condensed spiritual insights and teachings --- the message.  All different ages and kinds of people love and appreciate the Reggae Angels, especially the spiritually inclined. Their focus is on spirituality, affirming and clarifying the message of the prophets --- advice and prayers to bring us nearer to God. The Reggae Angels have their own recording studio in Oakland, California called The Workshop. See the website www.ReggaeAngels.com for music samples and upcoming show schedule.

Rihanna and Island Def Jam to release sophomore album entitled A GIRL LIKE ME

Following the amazing success of her gold debut Island Def Jam release, MUSIC OF THE SUN; Rihanna is gearing up for her sophomore album aptly entitled, A GIRL LIKE ME. Scheduled for release April 25th 2006, A GIRL LIKE ME is being catapulted by another lead smash single, "SOS."

Rihanna first exploded on to the scene in 2005 with the most downloaded song of the summer, "Pon De Replay," and the Hot 100 top 5 hit, "If It's Lovin That You Want." Now she comes back with "SOS," featuring the undeniable, classic track Soft Sell's "Tainted Love."

With her amazing success last year and this new infectious track, the beautiful talent has captured the eyes of NIKE and JC Penny.

NIKE has selected to use "SOS" for the launch of their new clothing line inspired by dance. An exclusive video, choreographed by world renowned choreographer Jamie King (Madonna and Shakira) is featured at www.nikewomen.com. Like NIKE, clothing line JC Penny was also captivated by Rihanna. Beginning in February, Rihanna will be the new face of Miss Bisou in their stores, nationwide and in their advertising campaigns. Her video and music will be featured in all Junior's sections of the stores.

In addition to her endorsement deals, look out for Rihanna's movie in her cameo role in Bring It On 3.

In 2005, the Barbados native was signed to Def Jam Records on the spot by President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. Her debut album MUSIC OF THE SUN was released the summer August 2005 and was led by the single of the summer "Pon de Replay", which peaked at number two on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the UK singles chart.

Last year, Rihanna shined in her many television appearances including; Regis & Kelly, The Today Show, MTV's Video Music Awards, Ellen and the hit television series, Las Vegas

"SOS" weaves its spell without the reggae, displaying the young singer's versatility. A major talent is brewing."
- BILLBOARD

"With her debut album MUSIC OF THE SUN, new artist Rihanna brings us the sultry dancehall and R&B sounds of the Caribbean islands."
- Associated Press

RIHANNA
A GIRL LIKE ME
IN STORES APRIL 25
DEF JAM RECORDINGS
RIHANNA'S OFFICIAL SITE

'S.O.S' (Rescue Me) AUDIO

WM HI: 
http://www6.islanddefjam.com/www2/av_system/go.wax?link=51537483E14Me6d8Yu1BB149-72574

 WM LO:
http://www6.islanddefjam.com/www2/av_system/go.wax?link=T683758LV524V4JTP7b3AA15-72575

REAL HI:

http://www6.islanddefjam.com/www2/av_system/go.rm?link=N1Um333SoE324G76H23YF087-72576

 

Amina Elshahawi
ThinkTank Marketing
535 W. 34th Street, Suite 102
NY, NY 10001
W: 646.792.2227
C: 917.974.1784
E: amina@thinktankmktg.com
http://www.thinktankmktg.com
.. Somaya22

Morgan Heritage "Tell Me How Come" Video on Bigupradio.com

Morgan Heritage - Tell Me How Come

Check out the new Morgan Heritage "Tell Me How Comer" music video courtsey of VP Records.

This wonderful track is off of his Full Circle album.

More Reggae Music Videos Here!!

ENJOY!

BigUpRadio.com

Reggae Radio Shows and Podcasts at Bigupradio.com

BIGUPRADIO.COM Presents
REGGAE RADIO SHOWS & PODCASTS
SHAKE dat DONKEY		REGGAE MAKOSSA
host: DJ Trasha "da Booty Shaker"		host: DJ Makeda Dread
Podcast		Podcast
BOOM SHOTS		ALLSPICE REGGAE
host: DJ Boom		host: DJ Common Sensi
Podcast		Podcast

BigUpRadio.com proudly presents an all new weekly dancehall mixtape show SHAKE dat DONKEY hosted by DJ Trasha da Bootyshaker straight outta the U.K. Let me tell ya, he's on a serious mission to rock the house! DJ Trasha has a worldwide following and is well known to make the ladies dance and shake it. Only the top of the top makes it into the studio of the SHAKE dat DONKEY Show. This week special guests in include interviews with Damain Marley a.k.a Jr. Gong, TOK and E-de. SHAKE dat DONKEY ONE LOVE

This BOOM SHOTS is a special tribute to STUDIO ONE and its founder Clement "Sir Coxsone" Dodd who passed on May 4, 2004. BIG UP to Studio One and Mr. Dodd! This week DJ BOOM does a serious Studio One "Rock Steady" mix like you won't believe. Keeping the classics rolling there are also tracks from Alton Ellis, Jacob Miller, Bitty McLean, Sugar Minott, Marcia Griffiths & Beres Hammond, Gregory Isaacs, UB40, Tenor Saw and many more! Tune in on www.bigupradio.com every Wednesday. ONE LOVE