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As the music of Africa continues to proliferate the globe the city of Dallas, Texas was once again thrust into the spotlight, playing host to the 2014 staging of the highly anticipated African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) held at the prestigious Eisemann Center. The award ceremony featuring a galaxy of superstars attracted guests from various cities throughout the United States as well as dignitaries and honorees from over seventeen (17) African Countries. AFRIMMA is the sole award ceremony in the Diaspora that caters to all musical genres including but not limited to: Afrobeats, Assiko, Bongo, Decale, Funana, Genge, Highlife, Hiplife, Kwaito, Lingala and Soukous. Among the list of top tier performers for the nights were: Flavour, Diamond Platnumz, 2Face, Togar Howard, Stanley Enow, Wyre, Khuli Chana, Kukere Master Iyanya, Kevin Lyttle, Kcee, U.S based Rapper T-Pain and Dancehall superstar Demarco. Following a series of performances the Jamaican armed with his own brand of music delivered an electrifying set to the multilingual audience interspersed with crowd interactions as attendees show their appreciation with deafening screams. After completing his set Demarco exited the stage, making way for T-Pain who also gave a memorable presentation. "The weekend was a groundbreaking and revolutionary experience, " said African Muzik Magazine and Big A Entertainment Founder, Anderson Obiagwu. "It was a night of celebrating Africa's top artistes who are influencing the music scene and culture of Africa for the better." Similar sentiments were echoed by Demarco, who thanked the organizers for the opportunity of performing at such a memorable and historic event. The proceeding was hosted by International Celebrity Comedian, Basket Mouth along with the Nollywood Beauty Sensation and Actress, Juliet Ibrahim. Meanwhile, back home on local soil Demarco has premiered the video for ‘Bad Gyal Anthem’ featured on the Promiscuous rhythm. The full visuals are available via his official YouTube channel (Youtube.com/demarcolife). This comes on the heels of his red hot single ‘Good Book’ clinching the top spot on five charts globally in the last month. Also, fans of his online reality series ‘Talk Yuh Mind’ will be pleased as the new season premiered last week via YouTube. .............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Miss Guyana Sonyini Fraser was crowned Miss Jamzone International 2014 at the National Cultural Centre in Guyana on Friday evening. First runner up went to Miss Barbados, Dannyelle Leslie and Miss Bahamas Lexi Wilson were named the second runner-ups. While Miss Trinidad and Tobago Yaya Henry and Miss Jamaica placed fourth and fifth respectively. Top 5 Miss Jamzone 2014 Fraser also won the award for Best National Costume and Best Fantasy Swimwear. Yeah Henry, Trinidad and Tobago took home the prizes for Best Smile and Best General Swimwear. Best National Costume The People’s Choice Award and Best Gown went to Miss St Vincent and the Grenadines Aphesha Matthews. This is the first title for the host country and along with the crown Fraser walked away with US$10,000. ............................................................................................................................................... Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Hedonism II the “haven of pleasure” will be hosting the most risqué and provocative events on the year “Miss Bum-Delicious Pageant” from August 31 to September 7 of this year. The Miss Bum-Delicious Pageant is open to women of all ethnicities to compete for the title of having the ripest, juiciest, most beautiful bum in the world. The pageant is split into a few different segments: the Poolside Bikini Challenge, the Talent Segment, the Evening Gown Parade, the Bare as You Dare Knockout Round, and the Final Sexy Question & Answer. Twelve finalists will be selected prior to the event, and ladies will be required to spend a week at the resort for the duration of the pageant. This is where they will meet and greet guests and participate in photo shoots and rehearsals for their final night. Miss Bum-Delicious 2014 will receive a cash prize of US$1000 as well as a return vacation for a week. The first runner-up will receive US$750, plus a 5-night vacation for 2 and the second runner-up will win US$500, along with a 3-night stay for 2 at Hedonism II. If you are 18 and over and planning a visit during our Miss Hedonism II Bum Delicious Pageant and you would like to participate, please contact the resort immediately by email with 2 recent full-body and face photos. For more information on this season's sexiest pageant, contact Leethan Grandison, Public Relations & Social Media Manager at (876) 957-5200 or leethangrandison@hedonism.com.

Bajan born Chef Jason Howard aims put rum on the menu for his dishes and desserts. The Michelin trained chef relocated to London to further his career. As well as running a series of fine dining pop up events with the focus of Caribbean food and flavours. Chef Howard is developing and experimenting with rum as a cooking ingredient, he sees the way that Europe prides itself on food and wine combinations, whether in cooking or food pairing. Chef Howard believes the Caribbean can emulate the same type of culinary fusion using rums, as each rum producing island can make better use of its natural food and culinary resources, to best provide a more authentic Caribbean experience for many who visit the islands. As well as working with rums in his food, he is on a mission to raise the profile of Caribbean food, so that it's on a par internationally with that of French, Italian, Chinese or Indian. Part of his plan will be to develop a team or network that can collectively raise the standard of Caribbean cuisine, Showcasing the cultural and regional diversity, to what it can be on a global stage. Currently, Chef Jason Howard is working on developing his next Caribbean fine dining with an interesting theme, bringing a new twist to some dishes and visually stunning food to match.

Etana rose to prominence in 2006 with an inimitable musical style that resists categorization. Hitting all the right notes on her breakthrough song “Wrong Address”, an emotive lament reflecting the lack of employment prospects for Jamaicans living in violence-plagued communities, she brilliantly fused acoustic folk strands with roots reggae cadences and strains of neo soul influences. “Wrong Address” was duly rewarded with heavy radio rotation, reaching the number 1 position on several Jamaican charts. Etana, whose name means “the strong one”, followed that auspicious introductory single with a bold romantic declaration “Warrior Love”, juxtaposing acoustic rhythms with African-styled choral chants, and “Roots”, blending traditional African drum beats with exuberant soul underpinnings as she cautions the youths to hold on to their culture. Etana’s genre-blurring appeal reached a wider international audience with the June 2008 release of her critically lauded debut album “The Strong One” on VP Records, which included a lovers’ rock duet with Italian reggae artist Alborosie “Blessing”; a one-drop Rastafarian anthem “Jah Chariot” and her poignantly sung, unwavering declaration of self-assurance “I Am Not Afraid”. Because she adamantly refuses to be constrained by approach or lyrical content, Etana has named her sophomore VP release “Free Expressions”. “This album was produced a little differently from the first, most of the sessions were less planned so there is more of a free vibe,” she explained. “I just wanted to express myself freely, write just what I want without thinking too hard about what anyone’s opinion would be, just doing music as I feel to do it.” A mesmerizing performer whose vocals are as culturally defining as South Africa’s Miriam Makeba or Jamaica’s Marcia Griffiths and as dynamic as classic Whitney Houston, “Free Expressions” furthers Etana’s reputation as a skillful songwriter: she penned 12 of the album’s 14 tracks and their lyrical sophistication, coupled with her dramatic deliveries, destroys any notion of the dreaded sophomore curse. “I feel more confident as a writer now than a few years back,” she shares, “because I am less concerned about what people think about certain subjects, and certain points of view. I have learned that I can’t please everybody and for the most part, people are very happy with what they have been hearing.” Indeed, people are so consistently enthralled by Etana ‘s music that several of “Free Expressions’” songs have already topped the charts in Jamaica and reggae charts internationally. “August Town” was written in 2009 about an unwarranted police shooting on a community gathering in the area of Kingston where she was born and lived until quite recently. London based producer Curtis Lynch Jr. heightens Etana’s impassioned account of that tragedy with dub- influenced reverbs and soul shaking bass lines. “Free”, produced by Kemar “Flava” McGregor, offers a somber reflection of a prolonged period of struggle endured by the artist. “While recording that song I had to go outside and catch my breath, then come back and do it again,” Etana shares. “It brought me to tears. I wrote it when I was going through one of the toughest times in my life and I felt like it wouldn’t end.” In 1992 Etana migrated with her mother to the U.S. She went on to attend Broward Community College with the intention of becoming a registered nurse but destiny intervened. She left college in 2000 and joined a female vocal group named Gift. Universal Records was interested in Gift at the time so Etana reluctantly agreed to wear the skimpy outfits dictated by the music industry’s widespread stereotyping of female artists; then one day she could no longer conform. “We were shooting a video and we had on Victoria’s Secret pink lingerie, thongs and black stiletto heels,” Etana remembers. “The cameraman had the camera in a compromising position and I was wondering, what is he looking at? I was very uncomfortable so I walked out and that was it. I also recall a young girl about 6 years old singing some of my suggestive lyrics and I couldn’t believe I had introduced her to lyrics like that.” Etana returned to Kingston with the intention of opening an Internet café but again destiny interceded. In 2005 a friend brought her to Kingston’s Fifth Element Records, then the management team of Richie Spice, who were enjoying great success with Spice’s single “Earth A Run Red” and album “Spice In Your Life”. Spice was heavily booked for American and European tours and Etana auditioned to become one of his backup vocalists; she so impressed Spice’s management, she was immediately asked to accompany the Rastafarian singer on his tour dates and she agreed. Recognizing her immense talent, Fifth Element urged Etana to record her own songs but because of her experiences with Gift, Etana wasn’t sure she wanted to pursue a career in music again. Following almost a year of their requests, she agreed. “I decided to give music another shot after being asked repeatedly to record one song, which was “Wrong Address,” Etana explained. “After I figured out that I could do it my way and wear what I wanted to wear and sing what I wanted to sing, it wasn’t so hard.” Etana followed the highly praised “Wrong Address” with a spate of hits singles, each honoring her embracement of Rastafarian principles, adherence to a natural lifestyle, acknowledgement of the teachings of Marcus Garvey and Emperor Haile Selassie I and royal representations of women. Etana’s debut album “The Strong One” garnered many awards including Album of the Year honors at the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) in New York City and at the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards (EME) in Kingston. Etana was also nominated as Best New Reggae Artist at London’s annual MOBO Awards in 2008. Adhering to song lyrics that reinforce self-sufficiency, enlightened spirituality, sultry but never tawdry romantic situations and keenly observed political commentaries, “Free Expressions” is poised to reap similar accolades. “War”, produced by Patrick Samuels, addresses the reasons for continual global conflict including religious divides and racial stereotyping, yet offers hope that these harmful prejudices can be eradicated; “Retribution”, produced by Stephen Stanley, warns of the karmic consequences that result from each of our actions. Etana’s unabashed romanticism on the lovers’ rock tunes “I Know You Love Me” and “Happy Heart”, both produced by Flava, is contrasted by the disillusionment that accompanies her partner’s infidelity on “Heart Broken”, produced by Curtis Lynch Jr. and Gussie Clarke. “Move On” also produced by Lynch, adapts a neo-soul reggae fusion that cautiously veers into C&W territory to a break-up tale that embraces life’s new possibilities, as does the upbeat reggae track “My Name Is”, produced by Stephen Stanley. Etana highlights her soulful side on “I Got You” produced by Specialist and Alborosie, a song that can be interpreted on many levels. “That song relates to my life with my mother and especially my grandmother,” she explains, “but it could be about someone’s relationship with God or anyone they are close to at troubled times.” “Day By Day” produced by Joel Chin, offers spiritual renewal, with Lamont Savory’s subtle acoustic guitar textures underscoring the nuances of Etana’s exquisite vocal phrasing. “People Talk”, produced by Rohan Dwyer and Specialist, was written by Carol Dexter especially for Etana, reflecting her determination to succeed against all odds in the music business but the song’s fortifying sentiment is easily applicable to anyone seeking to overcome their detractors’ taunts: “never let them get you down, never let them see you frown, never let them lead you astray, starting today, live your life your way”. Source: VP Records

We love their music and only know them by their stage names. Have you ever wondered how they came up with these names? Well, we did the digging for you. In the Caribbean most of us has a nickname which has nothing to do with our legal names, example “Shorty Man”, because you are short or “Little” because you are small or tiny Here is a list of some of our favourite Dancehall/Reggae artistes with their legal names and how they got their stage names. Beenie Man He is referred to as the “King of Dancehall", Aka “Ras Moses”, “The Doctor”, “The Girls Dem Sugar”. However, this Kingstonian was born Anthony Moses Davis and got the name “Beenie Man” because he was always in the company of adults, making him the “smallest little man” in the group. Lady Saw Born Marion Hall, she was the first female deejay to win a Grammy Award. Before her famous name she was called “Female Saw”. Many believe she got her name because of raunchy cutting lyrics, but she was named after ’80s dancehall greats, Tenor Saw. Mavado Born David Constantine Brooks in the Kingston, he started out singing in church. When his dancehall career took off, he named himself "Mavado" after the Swiss watch company Movado, with his manager Julian Jones-Griffith altered the spelling. Vybz Kartel Known best for his songs "Clarks", "Romping Shop", "Poor People Land", Vybz Kartel was actually born Adidja Azim Palmer in Portmore. In his earlier career he was known as "Adi Banton", paying homage to mentor Buju Banton. Palmer was later part of the trio called “Vybez Kartel", after the group split he altered the spelling to Vybz Kartel Etana Shauna McKenzie is known commonly as Etana, meaning “the strong one”. Aidonia Born Sheldon Aitana Ricardo Lawrence, he took his stage name from the first two letters in his middle name 'Aitana', and 'Donia', a name which he earned while playing football. Alborosie Born and raised in Marsala, Sicily, Italy, but now resides in Kingston, Jamaica. The "Rastafari Anthem", singer was first called ‘Borosie” upon his arrival in Jamaica. He didn’t like the negative meaning of the ‘Borosie” so he added “Al” – Al-borosie, from his given name Alberto D'Ascola. Gyptian The “She's My Lady” singer was born Windel Beneto Edwards, for fetch from his stage name “Gyptian”. There are a few surprise to “Gyptian” background, his mother was Seventh-day Adventist and father a Rastafarian. , “Gyptian” like fellow DJ "Mavado started out signing in church. The singer earned his nickname from his habit of tying a shirt around his head and twisting his chin hair like an Egyptian pharaoh Popcaan One would think he got his name because he loved eating popcorn, but in reality Andre Jay Sutherland took his stage name “Popcaan” from a friend who died. Chronixx His stage name “Chronixx” was the name his friends, replacing the name ‘Little Chronicle’ that was given as the ‘junior’ to his father, the artist Chronicle. His actual name is Jamar Rolando McNaughton Buju Banton Born Mark Anthony Myrie, “Buju Banton” has some really interested facts about the origins of his stage name. Buju is a nickname given to chubby children that means breadfruit in the language of the Maroons in Jamaican and was given to him by his mother as a child. Banton is a Jamaican word that refers to someone who is a respected storyteller, and it was adopted by Myrie in tribute to the deejay Burro Banton, whom Buju admired as a child. Jah Cure Not a traditional name but Siccature Alcock, aka Jah Cure, or Iyah Cure ,was given the name Jah Cure by Capleton whom he met while growing up in Kingston.[ Sizzla Born in Kingston to devout Rastafarian movement parent, Sizzla Kalonji or simple Sizzle was born Miguel Orlando Collins. Here is how Sizzle explained his name ‘kalonji,’ mean ‘Victorious,’ and ‘sizzla’ mean ‘burning essence,’ just in sound. So it’s just vibes and the word. When enough kind of people hears the word, the word giveth strength." I-Octane This Clarendonian born Byiome Muir got his name due to his high energy levels and long lasting ability. Bounty Killer This DJ was born Rodney Basil Price, in Kingston, Jamaica. At the age of 14, he was shot by a stray bullet during a gunfight between rival political factions, and while convalescing in hospital decided on the name Bounty Killer. Shabba Ranks One of the most popular dancehall artists of his generation Shabba Ranks was born Rexton Rawlston Fernando Gordon. Shabba stated that his came from Africa. In an interview he said “If you check the map of Africa there’s a little town with the term Shabba but it spelled with one “B”. One of my close friend’s gave me the name Shabba because there used to be a wanted man named Shabba in Jamaica and because I used to love trouble, they gave me the name too” Ninjaman Many might not know this but before he was called Ninjaman he called ‘Double Ugly" and “Uglyman". He also went by his born again Christian name "Brother Desmond". He changed his name back to Ninjaman aka The Don Gorgon and Gun Pon Teeth. His actual name is Desmond John Ballentine

Bronzed skin, toned bodies, yes it is summer time and what does every girl dream of this time of year whether its going to the local beach of jet setting off to a private beach? The perfect bikini! We were in search of the perfect twin piece for our readers,something sexy, sultry, and really shows off the physique.Well, we have found the perfect brand all the way from Barcelona in Spain! Didi by Diana is the new innovative bikini line made from beautiful and unusual materials leather, suede and here is a Caribbean E-Magazine exclusive, soon in ostrich and python! The luxury brand launched in May and are already setting the Spanish party town Marbella on fire with their unique cut and design. Cielo, Rubiare just two of the supersexy names from the 9 piece collection made with a lyrca lining so that you can wear a Didi by Diana two piece every summer! Didibydiana.com @Didibydiana on twitter, youtube & instagram About Sha Osei Sha is an admirer of beauty in all forms. Born in the UK, residing in Paris has made her dream of being a writer come true by realising & drafting books, ghostwriting and even having her own publication. She is now working with the luxury and fashion PR business. ...............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Do you need help in the bedroom? Well, sex toys are not the only things that can spice up a relationship. Some foods have psychoactive properties, others arouse because they are psychologically suggestive, and some can actually increase blood flow to the genitals. Below are 10 Aphrodisiac Foods to Feed Your Sexual Appetite ASPARAGUS Asparagus is a great source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin and folic acid. Folic acid is said to boost histamine production necessary for the ability to reach orgasm in both sexes. BANANAS The seductive fruit contains high levels of potassium and B vitamins, will add some sizzle to your night. It contains chelating minerals and the bromeliad enzyme, said to enhance the male libido. Its phallic shape also symbolizes sexuality. AVOCADO The Aztecs called the avocado ahuacuatl, or "testicle tree," as they the fruit hanging in pairs on the tree resembled testicles. Therefore, just by looking at the shape of avocado, you will see the reason why it was associated with sexuality. In Spain Catholic priests forbid the fruit, because they believe is obscenely sexual ALMONDS This fruit contains high doses of vitamin E, magnesium and even symbolizes fertility in female. The aroma of almond supposedly arouses passion in females CHOCOLATE This sweet and decadent food is most notably as a symbolic aphrodisiac. Chocolate contains two key components – phenethylamine and tryptophan. The former is a stimulant that is released in the brain when we fall in love, while the latter helps to produce serotonin, a brain chemical associated with elevated moods and sexual arousal. STRAWBERRIES This red fruit of love is an aphrodisiac that can heat up romance because they are a rich source of Vitamin B and folic acid that boosts fertility of women. This fruit also increases sperm count in men. BASIL Basil has a fantastic aroma that is said to have an aphrodisiac effect; it is also very stimulating. FIGS This sexy fruit has long been thought of as an arousing stimulant, and an open fig is believed to emulate the female sex organs. The potent aphrodisiac boosts woman's fertility. OYSTERS Oysters are thought to bet an aphrodisiac because they contain high levels of zinc, which helps produce sperm and increases libido HONEY This is considered the best aphrodisiac food and most people are aware of their reputation for increasing sexual desire. Honey contains boron, a trace mineral that helps the body use and metabolize estrogen, the female sex hormone. Studies have shown that this mineral may also enhance testosterone levels in the blood, the hormone responsible for promoting sex drive and orgasm in both men and women. In addition, honey contains B vitamins needed for testosterone, as well as other nutrients, enzymes and phytochemicals. Since they are all natural and packed full of vitamins, you won't have to feel guilty about indulging! .............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Fish Recipe Ingredients · 4 flying fish fillets · 8 oz. mahi mahi fillet · 1 tbsp chopped dill · 2 packets Maggi Season Up! For Fish · Fish bones · Pepper to taste · Sweet spices (see step 1 in Method) · Small onion · Garlic · ½ cup flour mixed with ½ cup bread crumbs · Oil for shallow frying Method · Put a few fish bones in a pot to boil with 3 cups of water, 1 pack of the Season Up! and add some sweet spices such as cloves, star anise and a bit of onion and garlic to make a stock and leave it on while you are cooking. · Cut the flying fish in halves horizontally and cut the mahi mahi into chunks of approximately the same weight. · Season with the other pack of Season Up! and add pepper and dill to taste. · Preheat a pan with the base covered in oil for shallow frying. · Arrange the mahi mahi and flying fish on skewers and coat in the flour and bread crumb mixture. · Fry on one side until golden, then turn the skewers. Drop the heat and cook until the next side is golden (this is to ensure that the fish is fully cooked through). · Drain on a plate and place in a warm area. COCONUT POLENTA RECIPE Ingredients: · 200g cornmeal · 1 packet Maggi Coconut Milk Powder · Fish stock · Elle Vere Butter · Elle vere cooking cream · Sugar Method Place 1 cup of stock in a saucepan which is on a low heat and whisk in the cornmeal. Continue to whisk and gradually add more stock and a little butter. Taste for salt. Add most of the coconut milk powder reserving about 2 tablespoons to make a sauce. Continue to cook and add stock for about 5 – 7 minutes, whisking regularly, until the polenta is cooked and creamy. Taste again for seasoning and add a few tablespoons of sugar to taste (this is to enhance the coconut flavor, and at this time a touch of cinnamon or clove could also be added), also add a little butter and cooking cream to taste. Sauce In a small bowl, mix about ½ a cup of the remaining stock with the 2 tablespoons of coconut milk powder. This sauce is to be poured over the polenta during plating to keep it creamy. Dill Cucumber Pickle · 1 medium sized cucumber, chopped · ½ a lemon juice · 1 tbsp chopped dill · 1 medium sized onion, finely chopped · Crushed red pepper to taste · Salt to taste Mix all ingredients in a bowl and adjust the seasoning. By: Chef Rebel Glam's ............................................................................................................................................. Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Fresh from a scintillating performance at the recently concluded Reggae Sumfest at Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, red hot dancehall star Aidonia is set to launch his new clothing line within the coming weeks. The deejay will be rolling out his apparel line for the summer. The collection will cater to both males and females with a line specifically for children to follow. "Ever since my emergence in the music industry, I've always wanted to dabble into other aspects of business. Music and fashion go together and I think starting a clothing line will be a good marriage for my music and brand. It's also something the fans have been demanding for years," Aidonia stated in a release to the media. He continued, "Every time we go on tours people always asking for CDs and other paraphernalia, so I believe starting a clothing line is a step in the right direction in building the JOP brand." The line dubbed '1V' or '1Voice', coined from a popular slogan used during his performances will be prominently displayed on the T-shirts. The line will include tank tops, pullovers, hats and caps, all of which will be made available via selected stores across the island. An official website will also be launched which will allow international fans to purchase their favourite products online. Currently promoting singles such as 80s Dancehall Style, Don Deh Yah and the newly released Coco Powda, Aidonia says he's working assiduously with his team to fine tune the business aspect of his new venture to allow for a smooth unveiling when the official launch date arrives. Meanwhile, Aidonia along with Deablo and other members of the camp are expected to depart the island this week for a performance in The Bahamas.

Su Dushi" [DUSHI (doo-she) means sweetheart in our local DUTCH CARIBBEAN tongue, papiamento/u] invaded my good friend, Dane Bogles' desk waiting to SPICE up my life by the super-star guest visitor in the house. It was a pretty calm day at VP records, THE intentional Caribbean powerhouse, home to acts such as KONSHENS, GYPTIAN, BUNJI AND FAY ANN LYONS, SEAN PAUL, BERES HAMMOND, SANCHEZ, SHAGGY and many more Caribbean genres, international stars. In 2008 to 2009, anyone who knew me, hung out at my house (which served as the pre-game before "DI LIME" spot) or even to turn their radios on at all, couldn’t escape the sounds of 'THE TEACHER' & 'AH SPICE' with their mega Mash up hit "Romping Shop". Many times we would hear the MISS INDEPENDENT Riddim, also done by R&B singer and mega-super star producer, NEYO and hold our breath to hear the seductive lyrics of the reggae SUPER can! Vybz Kartel was (at the time), proved to be THE most talented, yet controversial and long-standing, internationally renowned "permanent" fixture on the CARIBBEAN scene with years of MASH UP hits such as: "HELLO MOTTO", "SO MEH SAY", "TIGHT GYAL DEM" "LOVE" and "VIRGINITY" were only a few of the massive list of hit songs that the dancehall genius would deliver to the scene. The reigning, lyrical innovator and prince of dancehall, KARTELaka Adidja Palmer wasn't the only voice that made masses around the world go crazy over THE ROMPING SHOP phenomenon. The sweet, yet, cleverly slack (raunchy) female MC appropriately named SPICE, stood her own, and to most, better than her male co-star, Dj Palmer just as fellow Caribbean Queen, Nicki Minaj did with J and Kanye in "MONSTER". As she ended her interview before she came over to THE C.A.B station (aka. DANES' DESK) the fun-sized, brown skinned beauty, sporting her blue hair simply asked before we got started “Can I just put on a likkle more lip gloss before we start?" A girl after my own heart! I smiled and said "sure" as I began to set up the audio for our exclusive Q and A. We are, on some level, familiar and LOVING the spice, but now its time for the CHARISMATIC and, ever-so sufficient GRACE STARLISA: YOU KNOW YOU COOK FOOD, WHAT ACTUALLY MAKES THE FOOD SO GOOD? Spice: It’s the “Spice” STARLISA: EXACTLY! Spice: Without de spice it nah go niiiiiiicceeeee, haha! STARLISA: WHICH SPCE WOULD YOU BE IN THE DANCEHALL SCENE AND WHY? Spice: I am the SALT, in Dancehall because without SALT in your food, it has no flavor and I am also a likkle peppah, to make it spicy. I, also provide that in DANCEHALL because I am always coming with something different. Whether it's my performance, my entry on stage, from my lyrics to my blue hair and shoes that I wear, I am pepper. STARLISA: YOU DEFINITELY ARE! NOW, THE MECCA OF TRINIDADIAN EVENTS IS CARNIVAL. TO ME, THE JAMAICAN EQUIVILENT [TO ME] WOULD BE ‘STING’! Spice: Right! STARLISA: FOR THOSE OF US WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN, TAKE US THROUGH THE STING EXPERIENCE Spice: OK, so you have never been to a STING, it's a big music festival, nuff people, ah come I hear the music, but also see a good (she pauses) ah GREAT SHOW! But, it is a tough crowd (she lowers her sunshades so she can see me clearly in my eyes) the people dem, the audience WILL "Boo!" you. They will take their bottle and "lick it" [throw it] at you, laugh at you, rate you; it's a rough crowd. People dem are a NO NONSENSE crowd, even a veteran like BEENIE MAN will tell you; I get BOO-ed at STING, BOUNTY KILLER will tell you; I get BOO-ed at STING... DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE, That's STING. However, over the years I have managed to govern that crowd. They call me "MUMMA" [MOTHER] of STING because every year I go I just bring it, not only fuh mi looks (that earned me another lower of her glasses to show me a clever wink), but, for my lyrics, which are always quite whitty. STARLISA: INDEED. AND NO MATTER HOW SEXY OR RAUNCHY THE CONTENT, YOUR DELIEVERY IS IMPECABLE AND YOUR WORK ETHIC AS A DANCEHALL PRINCESS IS INCOMPORABLE, AND JUST SO DAMN SMOOTH! Spice: "That's what they love about the brand SPICE". (She proclaims with humble confidence.) "Always bringing something different. Yuh just cyan DARE me, she confesses as she belts out a wicked laugh, I WILL DO IT ... and that's just ME! STARLISA: SO, DOES THAT COME FROM WHERE/OR/HOW YOU WERE BROUGHT UP IN PORTMORE, JAMAICA W.I? HOW HAS IT CONTRIBUTED TO MOLDING THE ‘NO-NONSENCE’ DANCEHALL DIVA THAT WE SEE TODAY? Spice: Well, I was born and half my life raised there and then I left Jamaica and lived in England for a while to live with my grandparents. Funny enough, I was actually brought'll up by doing di likkle "Christian ting" singing In the choir and all of that, (as she takes a second to reminisce about the events of her Christian upbringing as she proceeds with caution with her words) the word I am looking for, "BRUCK OUT" me nah no whey meh BRUCK OUT from (LOL) you know when dem say she "BRUCK OUT" because I was a likkle Christian gyal In church. So I think the whole dancehall arena is what made me come. STARLISA: NOW, UNLESS, ESPECAILLY IN EARLIER TIMES, NO CAIRBBEAN MUSIC THAT DIDN’T FEATURE A MAJOR AMERICAN ACT WAS HARDLY EVER PLAYED ON MAJOR WORLD WIDE SCALE. BUT, THEN, THERE WAS “THE ROMPING SHOP” THAT INVADED HOT 97, POWER 105.1 AND EVEN 103.5 KTU’S AND Z100 WITHOUT APOLOOGY IN 2008/2009. E-V-E-R-Y-B-O-D-Y [ESPCIALLY MYSELF], WERE JUST IN AWE OF THE SONG LYRICAL CONTENT, RIDDIM [SAME USED IN NEYO’S MISS INDEPENDENT] AND CHEMISTRY BETWEEN YOU AND THE SELF-PROCLAIMED ‘WORLD BOSS’ VYBZ KARTEL, TAKE ME BACK TO THAT TIME, HOW DID YOU FEEL? Spice: I felt great! It's still hard for me to describe exactly into words. My phone was ringing from places I have never even heard of, wanting to talk, fly me out for shows and interviews. My sister would say ‘someone wants to talk to you from [fill in the blank] and I would be like ‘WHERE?!!’ The song Romping Shop went to all corners of the world, and it felt amazing travelling with them (Grace, takes a moment to reminisce and draws a deep but satisfying breathe) … it was overwhelming (she laughs) STAR, I CANNOT USE JUST ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE IT! It was just AMAZING, I couldn’t even understand the pandemonium. STARLISA: VYBZ, IS A LYRICAL MASTER. MANY PEOPLE FROM FAN TO INDUSTRY COMENTATORS SAY THAT YOU ARE HIS FEMALE COUNTERPART AS IT COMES TO HOW YOU BRAND “SPICE”, YOUR LYRICAL CONTENT AND YOUR WORK ETHIC. HOW DOES THE COMPARISON MAKES YOU FEEL? Spice: It’s a HUGE compliment and I take it gracefully, its an honor to even hear that. He (Kartel), is one of THE BEST artists to come out of Jamaica. STARLISA: So, you know I HAVE to go “THERE”, being with all of the allegations to clearly someone who not only you, but everyone regards as such a megastar, against Vybz Kartel and his trial. Can you share with us a little bit of not “VYBZ KARTEL”, but Adidja Azim Palmer? Spice: Working with him was absolutely amazing! He is TOTALLY different from the ‘person’ that the public is trying to paint. He is so sweet, always giving me trouble, always ah give joke, you know that pure, kind of JOVIAL person? THAT’S who DJ PALMER is. I know NOTHING and no one else! This other ‘person’ that the media around the world is talking about, I have never met ‘HIM’. STARLISA: THAT IS SUCH A REFRESHING POINT OF VIEW AND ONE UNFORTUNEATLY, AS YOU HAVE SAID. WE DON’T HEAR ENOUGH OF! Spice: ”INDEED! (With a sparkle of an English accent coming out, she replies) STARLISA: OK DEN, BACK TO THE SPICE! WHAT CAN BE ANXIOSLY BE AWAITING FROM YOU IN THE NEXT 2 YEARS? Spice: MORE HOT MUSIC! STARLISA: AND……….? Spice: HAHA! And, I want to visit my fans and spend time getting to know them, getting them to know me as my own entity. I want to go to AFRICA most definitely. I will continue to be one of the leading females in DANCEHALL because I am going to lock myself inna di studio and write and sing and produce until I cannot anymore! I took a break for a while because the BUSINESS and INDUSTRY got very frustrating and, you know, sometimes its like meh cyan [can’t] bother ESPECAILLY AS A WOMAN. But, definitely more HOT music like ‘SO MEH LIKE IT’! I love that song! STARLISA: AND SO DO WE! IT WAS AN AMAZING COME BACK. NOW YOU MENTIONED THAT THE BUSINESS GETS FRUSTATING, WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN COMING INTO THE INDUSTRY? Spice: Number One would be, GIVE RESPECT TO GET RESPECT! But, more importantly, when I come to work and record, I am not in any JOKING thing with anybody. I make it known that I am here to record, and make good music and then meh go inna meh yard! When you smile up and “giggy giggy” men can read you easily! You act easy, you treated as easy. Bottom line. ....................................................................................................................................... As we wrapped up with her doing a few drops for THE C.A.B [718cab.com] CARIBBEAN AMERICAN BUZZ and setting up plans to have drinks at my good friend, international SELECTA and official tour DJ for GYPTIAN, DJ SPIN CITI at his weekly WASTED WEDNESDAYS at SQUADZ in Brooklyn, New York, I realized that SPICE CYAN DONE, her beauty, sex appeal, intelligence, relentless work ethic and charm – not to mention SHE LIMIN’ STYLE! It was then time to pop in my RAGGA RAGGA compilation album, and pre-game before the night’s events. I was Brooklyn bound after a productive day of work. Work and play are an IMPORTANT balance to have!, Mi gent [peeps]. AH SO MEI LIKE IT! By: Sharlisa Peterson

Six delegates dubbed “The Glam Six” will this year vie for the Queen of Carnival title. “The Glam Six” includes Tamorla Millette is sponsored by Hakim’s; Heidigail Francis by LAVA International; Kizzy Thomas by Special Security Services Ltd; Jamilha Roberts by Flow; Leanda Ann Norville by CHAPA Bau Housing; and Russhell Ellis is sponsored by PaintPlus. The six young women will compete in five segments, on July 28, namely interview, swimwear, performing talent, evening wear and costume, as they vie for the title of Ms Queen of Carnival 2014. The show will see performances from The Elite Dancers, Sunnydale Dancers, Ricardo Drue and Claudette “CP” Peters. This year’s theme is “Be Bold: Be Different: Be Extraordinary – Bringing the Glamour”. ............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..