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Last night dancehall artist SPICE performed at the Rio Sports Gala and Awards Ceremony held at the National Indoor Sports Centre. The performance is now causing controversy has many believe both her attire and song were inappropriate for the occasion. She took the stage performing “So Mi Like It’, which guests in attendance didn’t think was appropriate. During her next song “Indictor” there was technical difficulties where she had to sing acepella because there was no riddim, which made her leaving the stage abruptly. After SPICE left the stage, the next performers of the nights were dancers dancing to the song”Indicator”. Now Spice is speaking out about the controversy. My Riddim stopped playing when I was about to do this song but yet still these dancers came up right after me and you played the same song and it was ok😂. No technical difficulty😂. I'm not bashing these lovely dancers who I love dearly but they were dressed in short shorts and bra top on stage winning and a skin out, girls winning on man back it up and all, but I wore a dress and it was inappropriate😂 😂 😂Or is it because I'm not from "uptown" it wasn't ok for me to sing my own song but they could dance to it? I wonder what they expected me to sing because in that case they should have hired Kevin Downswell twice instead of requesting me. All I know is that "Some" of you BLACK PEOPLE ARE A SET OF HYPOCRITES. Catch a break down of the show from comedian Dutty Berry

Former world champion sprinter Tyson Gay's 15-year-old daughter Trinity Gay has been killed in a shooting in Kentucky.. Police in Lexington said Trinity was hit in the neck during an exchange of fire between two vehicles in a restaurant car park near the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington about 4 a.m She was taken to hospital where she later died, local media reported. Tyson Gay has competed in the past three Summer Olympics. He was part of a team that won a silver medal in the 4x100-meter relay at the 2012 London Games, although that medal was ultimately stripped after Gay tested positive for steroids in 2013. Trinity Gay was herself a rising star on the track team at Lafayette High School. In a statement, Fayette County Schools Superintendent Manny Caulk said, “Our hearts are broken this morning over the loss of Trinity to this tragic and senseless act of violence. Please join us in keeping the Gay family close in thought and prayer and supporting the students, staff, and families at Lafayette High during this unspeakably difficult time.”

"Watch how mi sit down and a bubble pon the buddy head You cyaa get mi come, come, if you buddy dead.." sings dancehall star Spice on the sexy "Siddung" single. Produced by popular Cashflow Recordz, "Siddung" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Googleplay and most major digital stores via digital giants 21st Hapilos Digital. @spiceofficial @cashflowrecordz

Dancehall artist Vanessa Bling releases her highly anticipated new single "I Can't". The charismatic singjay who this past spring re-signed as Boom brand ambassador, sings of a sentiment echoed by many ladies as she sings "They say I should leave you alone But I can't.." Produced by renowned Markus Records, the single is available on iTunes, Amazon and more via 21st Hapilos Digital. @1realmarkus

From renowned Club King of Diamonds, Where the famous and infamous party hard, Businessman, philanthropist, humanitarian and devoted family man, meet Mr. Terry Elliott, Sr. Born in South Carolina, Terry and his family migrated to Florida for a chance at a better life. With a hard working mother at the helm, he learned discipline, compassion, motivation and a fervor to pursue the American dream. But to whom much is given, much is required, and Terry made it his life's mission to better those around him as he climbed the ladder of success alongside his devoted wife and business partner Mrs. Sherria Elliott. Among his many endeavors and philanthropic causes is the annual Christmas on 15th Avenue Event. The only Charity that showcases an amazing parade, city's best food, cherished icons and community causes with the involvement of local celebrities and special guests. The yearly non-profit event benefits local children through The Ark of the City Inc. a Florida chapter 501 c 3 organization, and strives to bring a smile and holiday spirit to each inner city child. Amid Mr. Terry Elliott's, Sr. many business ventures is the rising label, Supa T Records which was, founded in 2015. The name itself embodies Terry’s life approach and earnestness, “The name represents me and the level on which I pursue everything in my life....On a superb level”. Hence, Supa T Records. Among an over-saturated music business, Supa T Records aims to set itself apart by merging music and community, thus creating great and positive musical content while delivering sound messages. “What sets Supa T Records apart from other labels is our determination to bring back quality music in the industry with good content people can really relate to and not fantasize about.” As family and community plays a vital role in Terry Elliott, Sr.'s mission, Supa T Records first signed artists are composed of the latter namely J-Shin, Juice Yung'n and Kidd Tori. The label’s first production and release J-Shin "You Did It, I Did It" received positive feedback and solidified the label and artist legitimacy. While the label and artists are presently hard at work on new music, Mr. Terry Elliott, Sr. continues to seek to promote the welfare of his community and inspire not only by words, but actions. "Supa T Records taking flight to higher levels"

International producer Troyton, of Troyton Music, is quite optimistic, that his latest rhythm project titled Dancehall Bully, is one of the biggest on the dancehall circuit. The star-studded project was only released a little over a month ago, but is already making the charts and taking over the streets. Dancehall Bully tracks are featured on the BBC 1xtra and many more stations, locally and internationally. Dancehall Bully featured artistes such as Aidonia, Mavado, Demarco, Jahmiel, Busy Signal, Charly Blacks, I-Octane, Moshan and Theron, and was released on August 26, 2016. Dancehall Bully is distributed by 21st Hapilos, and is available on iTunes, Amazon and all other digital outlets for purchasing. "The rhythm is already creating waves in dancehall space. It is one of the most talked-about rhythms right now, especially since Mavado's song is seen as a diss track to fellow deejay Popcaan," said Troyton. Troyton is currently in the studio working on another rhythm project for next year. This project is called True Emotions and is set to be released early January. "I am targeting audience worldwide with my productions; I do good-quality music and try to incorporate different genres," said Troyton. Fans can keep up with Troyton via Instagram @troytonmusic.

It's time to finish your manuscript or post your published book! All submissions must be received at the office of the Bocas Lit Fest by 31 October 2016. This unique Award recognises outstanding literary works for young adults written by Caribbean authors. The Award’s guaranteed book purchase and distribution programme will ensure that a minimum of 2,000 copies of each of the next three winning titles will be bought from their publishers and put into the hands of young people through schools, libraries and community organisations across the Caribbean. So far, 7,500 copies of the first set of winning titles have been donated to hundreds of locations across 11 Caribbean countries − and thousands more copies of the 2016 winners will be distributed in early 2017. A First Prize of $10,000 CAD, a Second Prize of $7,000 CAD and a Third Prize of $5,000 CAD will be awarded to the winning authors. Winners will be announced at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest in Trinidad and Tobago, 26 April - 30 April 2017. For all queries, please email burtaward@bocaslitfest.com Click here for official guidelines and entry form!

Having worked with some of the biggest names in every genre of music such as Dancehall, Reggae, R&B and Hip Hop such, renowned multi-talented singer, songwriter and billboard charting producer Ricky Blaze has achieved many pinnacle of success in his career. His latest endeavor consist of a worldwide deal with Island Records / Universal republic as a producer, DJ and artist. Founded by Chris Blackwell, Graeme Goodall, and Leslie Kong in Jamaica and has been based in the United Kingdom since 1962, Island Records is a major record label that operates as a division of Universal Music Group. Ricky's first project with Island Records/Universal Republic features the remix of sultry soulful singer Alexus Rose "Apart" featuring Grammy award-winner reggae and dancehall star Beenie Man. Alexus Rose who was discovered by Ricky Blaze, is achieving success with her latest single who has been blazing and charting the international airwaves and received over 100,000 plays on Soundcloud. To support the sizzling single, a video is slated to be released in the fall. Speaking on this latest accomplishment, Ricky stated " It feels great to know i have support from a major to showcase my Production. I grew up listening to music releases from Island Records from Pop to reggae so to have them enhancing my music reach is huge." In addition to the hit single, Ricky teamed up with label mate, Grammy award-winner Sean Paul, in yet another hit bound single with “Like This”. The latter which recently premiered on popular Mass Appeal Magazine, has received tremendous positive feedback from music industry insiders and fans alike. Although Ricky has worked with a roster of stars such as Gyptian, Nicki Minaj and more, speaking on the opportunity to work with Sean Paul, he explained “I grew up listening to him so I was pretty excited to work with him , it was an honor and something I’ve always hoped to do” “Like This” is now available worldwide on most online major digital platforms such as iTunes.

The 2016 Caribbean American Heritage Awards, which is held under the patronage of the Caribbean Diplomatic Corps will honor: Gabriel Abed, CEO, BITT (Barbados); Dr. Goulda Downer, CEO, Howard University Capital Region Telehealth Center (Jamaica); Ambassador Eddie Greene, UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS (Guyana); David Hochoy, Artistic Director, Dance Kaleidoscope (Trinidad); Machel Montano, Soca Artiste Extraordinaire (Trinidad); and Victoria Rowell, award winning Actress, Author and foster-care Advocate (Jamaica). Dr. Claire Nelson, ICS Founder and President, emphasized that, "ICS started the CARAH Awards twenty-three years ago in an effort to highlight the accomplishments of Caribbean Americans, and to provide a forum for honoring and recognizing their contributions to America and the world". Over the years, well known individuals such as, Susan Taylor, former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, Rita Marley, reggae matriarch and philanthropist, Earl Graves Sr., publisher of Black Enterprise, and George Willie, Co-Founder of National Association of Black Accountants, have received a CARAH Award. Friends of the Caribbean honored have included Congresswoman Barbara Lee and the Honorable Andrew Young. The event will be hosted by ABC TV News Anchor, Maureen Bunyan, who is of Caribbean heritage. Entertainment for the evening will be anchored by the top Caribbean Band in Washington DC, IMAGE Band and Pan Lara Steel Orchestra. Event partners include CaribNation TV which will co-executive produce the Gala for television, and Boom Production Services. To learn more about the Caribbean American Heritage Awards, please visit www.caribbeanheritageawards.org

The 2016 IRAWMA Awards took place Sunday, October 2nd, 2016 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The event established in 1982 acknowledges and honors the accomplishments and contributions of reggae and world music of all facets of the industry. The Royal Family of Reggae Morgan Heritage who will undoubtedly go down as legends, on par with such greats as the Rolling Stones, won the IRAWMA Awards for Best Album for "Strictly Roots". The Grammy award-winning album that has been deemed a bonafide classic by both music industry insiders and reggae lovers was the first project produced under their own imprint label CTBC Music Group (Cool To Be Conscious). "Strictly Roots" features an array of 13 memorable tracks fusing on both reggae and dancehall such as the hit single "Perform and Done, Child Of JAH" featuring Chronixx, "Put it On Me", "Wanna Be Loved" featuring Eric Rachmany of Rebelution, "So Amazing" featuring J Boog, Jemere Morgan & award winning drummer Gil Sharone and "We Are Warriors" featuring Bobby Lee from the Grammy Nominated Reggae Rock band SOJA . " We are so humbled and proud to have won this award for many reasons. Winning this award as an independent label (CTBC Music Group) is major for us, to receive this type of acknowledgement from our piers and our own reggae community, means just as much to us as the Grammy win. We haven't been nominated much less win an award in our own reggae community in so many years. It's good to be back on that stage, and thank you to the IRAWMA. We want to thank the most high for his divine blessings, our family for their sacrifice the industry and our amazing Loyal Royal fans worldwide fans for supporting us over the years. We’d also like to thank our team Wendy Morgan the GM of our label CTBC Music Group, MPR Consulting and all who have worked on this project. Jah is worthy to be praised!!!" Undoubtedly one of contemporary Reggae’s most powerful forces, the sensational Roots Reggae siblings have been both touring and hard at work on their upcoming 2017 album to be released yet again on their CTBC Music Group label. The latter has already delivered their first hit single "Selah" produced by renowned musician and producer Phillip "Winta" James which debuted at #34 in the top 200 Reggae singles on iTunes, which was a first for the group and also delivered a breathtaking video filmed around the world. To add to this feat, on the same day as their "Selah" release, CTBC Music Group artist Tiana, the soulful Polynesian sensation from Hawaii debut single "Never Gonna Break Me" also launched in the top 200 Reggae singles on iTunes. " In 2017 we are looking forward to the release of our new album in the Spring and of course more touring. We are grateful not just for awards but for the on going support from our family, friends and fans. After so many years in the music business, we are appreciative and very thankful. We say Rockaz, Cool To Be Conscious." #SELAHCHALLENGE Join #MorganHeritage in the #SelahChallenge !!!! Post a pic of the beautiful place where you are from and tag @morganheritage and #SelahChallenge on all social media platforms. Tag 3 friends to join the challenge and The Royal Family of Reggae Morgan Heritage will post their favorite each day this week!

Hapilos Entertainment Group is pleased to announce the recipients of its 21st Hapilos Digital Awards. This year, 23 awards were issued under 9 main categories to both artist and producer. The awards were presented at the weekly event Gallis Wednesdays on August 24, 2016 at Limelight Club in Kingston. The event was sponsored by Eskay Catering and hosted by Lady D of News Talk 93 FM. The 21st Hapilos Digital Awards recognizes various producers and artists for their accomplishments in the digital marketplace across the globe in the previous year. The 21st Hapilos Digital Awards is currently the only award in Jamaica that highlights the work of producers and is strictly based on sales and streams. The Awards was supported by media houses and members of the entertainment fraternity such as Suncity Radio, Re-TV, Zip 103, TVJ (E Prime), Fame FM, The Star, Nikki Z of Fame FM, Anjublaxx, Troyton Music, Shorty of Shortboss/ Adidjahiem Records, True Loyal Records, ZJ Chrome, Cashflow Records, Brixton Music Group and 4th Genna Music to mention a few. Special awards for Gallis Wednesdayz were presented to Bounty Killer for Outstanding Artist Support, Shelly Belly for Best Male Dancer, Luggo Luggo for Best Female Dancer and Foota Hype for Brand Loyalty. About 21st Hapilos Digital Distribution: 21st Hapilos Digital Distribution was established to market, effectively distribute and support Reggae and Dancehall music. With the inclusion of Gospel and other genres of Caribbean music and later Hip Hop, 21st Hapilos became a leading force in local music distribution and managed to stay ahead of the competition by catering to its clients on a personal level and by giving back to the music industry. “We recognize Jamaica as the home of reggae and dancehall, however, the real players who helped build this industry have not been given much credit in Jamaica over the years. It was out of this lack of recognition that the 21st Hapilos Digital Awards was born. The Digital Awards is strictly about giving back, recognizing, thanking and awarding artists and producers for their successes in the music industry” said Johnny Wonder, Executive VP of 21st Hapilos Digital Distribution. The company’s goal is to open markets and take Reggae to the highest level while administering the service needed by its clients to facilitate that journey. Hapilos Entertainment Group would like to thank the sponsor of the awards, Eskay Catering for their support, the media houses, host Lady D, the awards PR QMIA, ZJ Liquid, Foota Hype, all the clients and patrons who came out to support the presentation and the Hapilos Entertainment staff. The 2016 21st Hapilos Digital Awards Recipients are: Dancehall Album of the Year: Project Sweat - Aidonia - (Produced by 4th Genna Music) Bogle Move - Elephant Man - (Produced by Energy God Productions) VIKING (Vybz Is King) - (Produced by TJ Records and Adidjahiem) Dancehall Single of The Year: On Fleek - Alkaline - (Produced by True Loyal Records) 7 Eleven - Dexta Daps - (Produced By Troyton Music) Anointed - Bugle - Produced by (Adde Instrumentals) Needle Eye - Spice (Produced by Brixton Music Group) Inna Real Life - Vershon (Produced by Cashflow Records) Rup Rup - Popcaan (Produced by E5 Records) Dancehall Compilation of the Year: Music Without Rules - ZJ Chrome (Produced by CR203 Records) Dancehall Riddim of the Year: Ghetto Bible Riddim - Produced by ZJ Dymond/ Full Chaarge Records Fix Up Riddim - Produced by H2O Records (ZJ Liquid) Liquor Riddim - Produced by Good Good Productions Mildew Riddim - Produced by UIM Records / Anjublaxx Intoxicated Riddim - Produced by Troyton Music Happy Hour Riddim - Produced by Chimney Records Success and Strife /New Money Riddim - Produced by Fresh Ear Productions Reggae Single Of The Year: Modern Day Judas - Jesse Royal (Produced by Overstand Entertainment) Hip Hop Single of the Year: Type of Girl - Kevin Gates and King Kosa - (Produced by Rvssian - Head Concussion Records) Break Out Artiste of the Year - Jahmiel Producer Buzz Award - Dunwell Productions Trying Youth Of The Year: Versatile - Made It EP - (Produced By Damani Records) Top Vevo Streams Of The Year: Unruly Prayer/ Way Up - Popcaan (Produced by UIM)

2016 looks like turning into quite a year for guitar virtuoso Russ Hewitt with his current CD, ‘Cielo Nocturno’, showing all the signs of becoming a run-away success. Shimmering with the rumba flamenco rhythms and lightning guitar runs that have become trademarks of Hewitt’s distinctive style, the album includes a stellar line up of returning musicians including percussionist Raphael Padilla (Miami Sound Machine, Chris Isaak), drummer Walfredo Reyes Jr. (Santana, Steve Winwood, Chicago), bass player Bob Parr (Cher, Barry White), guitarist Alfredo Caceres (Gipsy Kings All-Stars) and most notably Larry Carlton who features on the delightfully easy grooving ‘North of Home’. The recording was mastered by Chris Bellman who, in his time, has worked with the likes of Van Halen, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Elton John while completing the lineup are guitarist Ardeshir Farah and accordion player Vladimir Kaliazine. Bellman mastered Hewitt’s two previous releases, ‘Bajo el Sol’ and ‘Alma Vieja’ which not only garnered outstanding reviews from around the world but also drew fulsome praise from his peers. In fact the favorable opinion gained from Hewitt’s debut CD, ‘Bajo el Sol’, rapidly translated into prolific airplay and a ten-week stay at #1 on Music Choice. It took up residence on the Smooth Jazz indie charts for 16 weeks and the first track to be released to radio (the dazzlingly Latin flavored title cut) climbed rapidly into the Top 20. The follow-up single, ‘Lydia’, enjoyed similar success, peaking at #15 and storming into the Billboard’s Top 40. Not content with that, Hewitt then made it three for three with ‘El Beso’ which also made it onto that same Top 40 listing and was named as one of the top smooth jazz tunes of 2009 by www.smoothjazznow.com. In addition, ‘Bajo el Sol’ was generously acknowledged by the music industry. It was included on the ballot for the 52nd Grammy Awards in the categories Best Pop Instrumental Performance, Best Pop Instrumental Album, Best Instrumental Composition, Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Engineered Album whilst elsewhere Hewitt gained an ‘Honorable Mention’ for the album’s title cut at the 2009 International Songwriting Competition. When Russ’s sophomore project, ‘Alma Vieja’ came long in 2011 it delivered two more Top 40 smooth Jazz singles, ‘Pacific Sunrise’ and ‘Samba Samba’. Not surprisingly, Russ has endorsements from a wide spectrum of suppliers and manufacturers. These include Godin guitars, Radial Engineering, Analysis Plus Cables, Morley Pedals, V-Picks, Voodoo Lab, BBF Pedal Boards, Primacoustic, Mission Engineering and DLS Effects. Always striving to extend his boundaries into sound tracks and commercial work, Russ contributes artist interviews and a monthly guitar lessons column to ‘The Sound’ magazine whereas his prowess as a composer has resulted in five Telly Awards (for ‘Parent Compass’) and the DVD companion to the New York Best Seller ‘The Harbinger Decoded’ by Jonathan Cahn. Russ has written the music for the upcoming feature film ‘Thirst: Mission Liberia’ which has already won a Silver Telly in the Spiritual – Faith category and a Bronze Telly in the Documentary category.