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  • Two transgender friends returned to Jamaica and reveal their new identities to families

    Romario Wanliss and Steffan Zachiyah are best friends, who were both born female but have now transitioned and live their lives as men. BBC Newsbeat travels with them to their birthplace, Jamaica, to find out how their friends and family will react to their new identities. Despite the potential risks to their safety and not knowing how their relatives will react, the friends were determined to be open about who they are. Romario said growing up in Jamaica was “not about living - it was about surviving”. He felt like many transgender people from black or Asian backgrounds, were faced extra challenges. "I thought being Jamaican made it harder for me," he told Newsbeat. Romario said it took a lot of courage to tell his family as he feared violence and rejection. Romario, who is in his 20s, had already spoken to his mother about it and said she is 'extremely supportive of me now' but had 'mixed emotions at first'. He travelled back to Kingston to break the news to his sister and father who he hadn't seen for years. Romario had to plucked up the courage to tell his family that he was making a transition to be male. He was terrified how his father would react as they had always experienced a difficult relationship in the past. However his father cried and said he still loved him Steffan also found it difficult growing up as transgender in Jamaica. "I had to practically beg my sisters not to call me Stephanie," he explains. Steffan said: 'Being of a Jamaican background it is usually seen as an "embarrassment" to go against the norm. 'My parents were very traditionalised and this made it even more difficult to even explain what transgender is never mind telling them I was thinking about transitioning He left Jamaica 12 years ago, and has since returned, but he always made an effort to dress more feminine to hide the fact he was transgender. In 2014 he started his transitioning to a male. Steffan's Jamaican mother, who lives with him in Birmingham, has accepted his transition but didn't support his decision to return to Jamaica as a male. 'Her main concern is my safety. She is Jamaican and knows what the possibilities are, she said "they don't care, they will kill you",' he said. Steffan's Jamaican mother, who lives with him in Birmingham, has accepted his transition but didn't support his decision to return to Jamaica as a male. 'Her main concern is my safety. She is Jamaican and knows what the possibilities are, she said "they don't care, they will kill you",' he said. While both Romario and Steffan found their visit back to Jamaica emotional and found not all their relatives completely understood, they have no regrets about revealing all. Jamaica is considered by some human rights groups as one of the most transphobic countries in the world. To hear their story watch the full documentary below.

  • Kemar "Flava" McGregor Confirms Rights to Release Jah Cure's "Masterpiece" A

    NORTH LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA - January 31, 2015: Reggae Producer Kemar "Flava" McGregor issued statements in social media outlets Sunday affirming his legal right to release an LP containing songs from reggae singer Jah Cure . McGregor's statements were a response to Jah Cure's allegations that the LP was " fake ," and to the singer's urging of fans not to buy the album. McGregor has produced several songs with Jah Cure, and recently released re-mastered versions of the songs from the recording sessions as an LP, titled "Masterpiece." The LP was released Friday, January 22, 2016 on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify. Jah Cure stated in a Twitter post, published January 29, 2016, that McGregor released a "fake album," and posted the words "please don't buy" in reference to this album. Although Jah Cure does not explicitly claim that he is referring to the "Masterpiece" LP in his tweet, "Masterpiece" is the only new Jah Cure album that has been released by McGregor. Jah Cure's tweet appears to issue a warning to McGregor, with the substance of the warning continued in an Instagram post, which contained a broken link at press time and was not viewable. McGregor, presuming that Jah Cure's tweet referred to the "Masterpiece" LP, replied to Jah Cure's claims, stating that he owns the master recordings of the songs on the LP, which gives him full rights to re-release the material as a new production. McGregor also stated that he has registered the songs in the United States Library of Congress. Referring to Jah Cure's allegations, McGregor said he was told "off-the-record" by a Jamaican music-industry official, whose name McGregor has withheld, that the controversy was launched by a well-known, New-York based reggae label that recently was involved in a copyright dispute with McGregor. McGregor believes the New York-based label is retaliating against McGregor by influencing Jah Cure to interfere with his efforts to retail the "Masterpiece" LP. "Every time these artists come out with such allegations, I know it is [the New York-based reggae label] advising them to do it, because I cut all ties with [the label], and I have stopped licensing my music to them," McGregor said. "These songs have been out for years. This is not a new release. My company has full rights to release the record, and we have accounted Jah Cure's royalties to his publisher, Susan Deleon, from Real Reggae Music Publishing. I have proof for all these statements that were accounted to her." Jah Cure's statements were published in an article January 29, 2016 on IrieFM.net. Although Jah Cure has not explicitly claimed that McGregor's release is illegal, his implication that the album is "fake" carries the connotation that the LP is an unauthorized, or "bootlegged" release, McGregor said. For this reason, McGregor issued media statements announcing his intention to sue Jah Cure for slander and/or libel if he does not relinquish his accusations publicly. "Jah Cure has [implied] in the media that I do not have the rights to release the songs I produced with him," McGregor said. "Jah Cure, I paid you to record these songs, and all these songs are copywritten in the [U.S.] Library of Congress. If you don't withdraw your statement and continue to tarnish my reputation, I will file defamation of character and slander charges against you in the United States."

  • Eek-A-Mouse ft. Blae Minott

    Since the start of 2016 - The NattyTakeOva brand has been working a new-breed of artist. Damas has taken the initiative to captain operations at Youthman Promotions / My Block Records - under the supervision of Blae Minott who is the son of legendary Dancehall singer Lincoln "Sugar" Minott . The son of the Legendary Dancehall singer Lincoln Sugar Minott - has collaborated with the veteran Eek-a-Mouse for his debut single titled " A Badmind Dem". Blae Minott and Eek-a-Mouse - creatively made an alternative version of the long time hit single " Wha Do Dem" by Eek-a-Mouse released in early 1981.

  • R. City - Make Up (Lyric Video) ft. Chloe Angelides

    The song is featured on the rap duo’s album What Dreams Are Made Of , which is available now on iTunes. It is the follow-up single to their smash hit “Locked Away ” featuring Adam Levine.

  • Dancehall Brukout Jam Packed With The Hits

    R-DM Digital Inc has released its debut project, an 18 track various artistes compilation Dancehall Brukout Vol.1 which is laden with hits from some of dancehall music's most prolific stars. Executive producer Adrian 'Donsome' Hanson spoke about the concept behind the project. 'It came about while I was thinking that we often have lovers songs for the masses but there aren't many raw dancehall albums that can put lovers in the mood just like an album with love songs', Hanson explained. Among the project's 18 tracks are 2 skits as well as an outro from in demand dancehall personality Tanto Blacks. The list of producers whose tracks are featured on the compilation include Hanson, Peter "shady" Harrison, Jheneal "Jay Crazie" Witter, Kerishma "ZJ Dymond" Davis, Richard "Richie Loop" Webb, Earl "Trobak" Taylor, Oneil "Clarkie" Clarke, Kimani Smith and Roel Powell. Hanson stated why it was necessary to release a compilation of raw undiluted dancehall songs at this time. 'Well the album was 99% ready from last year but I did not want to release it in the Christmas season as this album is obviously different from other albums that were being released, so I decided to release it in February because this will gave my team enough time to make ensure the album is well promoted', said Hanson. Among the artistes featured are Demarco, Vybz Kartel, Ding Dong, RDX, Pamputtae, Rage, Konshens, Tiana, Lady Saw, Richie Loop, Beenie Man and Harry Toddler. He revealed how the songs were selected. 'I was given over 50 songs to choose from so I started to go back and forth on some songs, driving around New York and Miami listening to the tracks for about 2 months, so it was a long process to finally cut it down to 14 songs and the skits. Once I decided on the songs, I made sure to secure all the licensing agreements '. Dancehall Brukout Vol. 1 is available for pre-order here and will release on February 25th

  • Beyoncé Attire and Appearance Sparks Debate in New Coldplay - Hymn for the Weekend

    Coldplay released the video for their Beyoncé collaboration Hymn for the Weekend , the second single to be taken from Coldplay's acclaimed new album, A Head Full Of Dreams. The video was shot in Mumbai, India, and features the band members, including front man Chris Martin, celebrating a Holi festival with Indian children. The video was director, Ben Mor, who is Indian. Beyoncé wears a head coverings, henna, and what looks to be traditional Indian garb. Since the release of the video, questions have arisen about the appropriateness of her attire. Is Beyoncé attire appropriate being that she is a black woman dressed as an Indian girl?

  • The 10 Style Commandments Every 20-Something Should Not Break

    A lot of things change in your 20s: relationships, work, school — and oh yeah, your wardrobe. The leggings and sweatshirts that would once fly in class just aren't going to cut it anymore, and as you're growing up, your look is, too. Your 20s are all about discovering yourself and your signature style, and armed with these 10 commandments, you'll survive your 20s in style. So don't sweat — just scroll to study up. 1. Thou Shalt Find New Inspiration Whether you look to Instagram, Pinterest, or even Olivia Palermo, search out sources of style inspiration. You'll suddenly find you have no shortage of outfit ideas. 2. Thou Shalt Raid Your Childhood Closet While you might not believe it, your childhood closet is brimming with fashion gems that are finally back in style again. So, next time you're home with Mom and Dad, dust off those overalls and Adidas sneakers and start wearing them again. 3. Thou Shalt Toss Out What You Don't Love When it comes to your closet, less is more. Edit down what you own by asking yourself "does this serve me?" and if it doesn't, give it away. 4. Thou Shalt Dress For Yourself Instead of following every passing trend, invest in pieces that make you feel beautiful 5. Thou Shalt Experiment Whether it's thigh-high boots, leopard print, or maybe just a dress and sneakers, challenge yourself to throw together what you own in new and interesting ways. 6. Thou Shalt Avoid Overspending Chances are in your 20s, you don't have a ton of extra spending money. Instead of blowing your budget on shopping, try secondhand shopping or master the art of combing through H&M and Zara for finds. 7. Thou Shalt Build Up the Basics Your 20s are a great time to build up the wardrobe staples you need to carry you through the decade. Simple yet flattering pieces like a jean jacket, classic blazer, and cocktail dress will become your multipurpose go-tos. 8. Thou Shalt Invest in a Grown-Up Wardrobe Invest in pieces you can wear to work. Keep it comfortable — you don't want shoes that will kill your feet — but a professional wardrobe will give you a leg up in any industry. 9.Thou Shalt Upgrade Your Lazy-Sunday Look Whether you're lounging in bed or headed out on errands, there is just something luxurious and grown-up feeling about owning comfy yet elegant loungewear. 10. Thou Shalt Master the Art of Accessorizing From sleek jewelry to outfit add-ons like scarves and belts, accessories are the secret to punching up a simple outfit. Source: POPSUGAR

  • Video Spotlight: Gentile - Cliq

    New Single & Video By Gentile , Produced By Outlaw Records and Video Directed & Edited By Darrio Magix @jwonder21

  • Sade Serena released her single "Daylight"

    Kingston, Jamaica – January 28, 2016 – Fresh off the heels with her last studio effort entiled: GermiNation which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard charts which graced the likes of BET, VIBE Mag, Yahoo Music! In addition to notable websites including Singersroom, HelloBeautiful, YouKnowyougotsoul. International artiste and songbird Sade Serena has officially released her single Daylight featuring Jowynalex a track from her upcoming EP slated to be released in March. Raised in Miami with Jamaican roots, Sade Serena’s sound can be described as one of Caribbean and Latin music with a contagious reggae bass line. Sade Serena exploded on the music scene with hits such as: Urban single: Tonight”, “Hello Kitty”, “All Natural” , “Whatever You Want” , and a slew of cover remixes which is still enjoying rotations on the airwaves internationally. The former background singer and dancer for popular American R&B/hip hop group Pretty Ricky revealed the story behind her recent single: Daylight . “My single Daylight is about being completely infatuated with someone. Its the part of the relationship when everything is new .Everyone’s favorite part ! When everything is is fun and your still exploring that person.” shared Sade Serena smiling Meanwhile as fans gear up for more exciting projects by Sade Serena the multitalented yet humble recording artiste would like to assure supporters of her music that, “I just make music and put them out ,be myself incorporate my roots in my music and perception of my story. The goal is to create music that is true to what I consist of which is ofcourse Caribbean, Hip Hop,R&B, Dance.”

  • New Dance " Seasoning" from Danca Family

    Learn the newest dance from the Danca Family called "SEASONING" Blacka Di Danca is a choreographer best known for his work with Diplo/Major Lazer, Collie Buddz, A$AP Rocky, Shaggy, Kiesza, Justin Bieber and more...and for his international dance workshops.

  • Rihanna's New Track "Work" Is Just the Beginning of a Dancehall Revolution

    American pop listeners have a tumultuous relationship with Caribbean music, and particularly dancehall. Our interest runs on an unpredictable cycle that spins from obsession to complete disinterest in the span of a few singles. Look at Sean Paul , who was everywhere on American radio in the early aughts until he suddenly wasn't. If Rihanna had stuck with making stuff like " Pon De Replay" there probably wouldn't be millions of people holding their breath for the release of her upcoming album Anti, since she'd only be getting airtime during odd hours on Hot 97. There have been some hopeful signs recently that things might be coming back around. Thanks to Justin Bieber's recent singles, Felix Jaehn's remix of OMI's "Cheerleader," and the wildly popular phenomenon that is Kygo, we've have become entranced with tropical house, which is built not only on breezy vibes, but also quintessentially Caribbean rhythmic patterns. Rihanna's new single " Work " finds the Barbadian singer dipping back into island music. The track, produced by Boi-1da, Vinylz, and SEVN Thomas , is an icy, futuristic reimagining of a dancehall beat that for all its clean-lined minimalism still seems capable of getting bodies wining when it inevitably takes over clubs this weekend. Riri even slides into her Barbadian accent for parts of it. It's no surprise that Drake pops up on the track: he's been on something of a crusade to get North American listeners interested in beats that break away from the steady thump that's defined not only hip-hop but all the pop styles that derive from it. "Work " isn't just a one-and-done track either. Rumor has it that there's already been a video shot for it, apparently involving horses decked out in Louis Vuitton prints. Rihanna and her team are betting that pop listeners are ready to reconnect with dancehall, and considering how on-point their trend forecasting has been in the past, it wouldn't be reckless to speculate that we're in for at least a couple of seasons of Caribbean beats on the radio. If other artists follow her lead (*cough* Kanye *cough*) maybe it'll stick. BY: MILES RAYMER Esquire

  • New York Festival's World's Best Television & Films April 16, 2016

    New York Festival's World's Best TV & Films competition honors programming in all lengths and forms from over 50 countries. Dedicated to both the Television and Film industries, categories mirror today's global trends and encourage the next generation of story-tellers and talent: Animation, Comedy, Corporate, Drama, Documentary, Feature Films, Movie Trailers, Music Videos, News, Promos, Reality TV Drama, Sports, Telenovelas, Webisodes, Best Performance by an Actor/Actress, Special Event, Innovation, Technical Production Team, CSR, Best Screenplay, Video Art, and Best Host.

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