AgapéSoul (Darryl Anders) interview on Colourful Radio 15-November-2020
“AgapéSoul is a direct reflection of my musical vision” says bassist/producer/songwriter. Early in his career, the Bay Area veteran spent years as a sideman. This a orded him the opportunity to play with and learn from many of his musical heroes including Tower of Power, Robben Ford, Booker T Jones and Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste. The time spent honing his craft led to Anders’ work in the brand-new world of music video games. Anders worked with the team at Soundwave Studios reproducing songs for best-selling products like KaraokeRevolution, GuitarHero and RockBand.
Seeking a creative outlet for his own artistry, Darryl stepped out front to lead the musical enterprise- AgapeSoul. Earning comparisons to world class r&b/jazz ensembles Incognito and Brand New Heavies, AgapeSoul’s Believe In Love hit #1 on the UK Soul Chart as well as being chosen as 2012 ’s #7 Best Album of the Year.
AgapéSoul’s highly anticipated follow-up cd Conversations shows an even more confident side of Anders’ production style. Phat grooves, big horns, soul stirring melodies, and lyrics that take the listener far beyond the reach of most of today’s contemporary writers. Over the course of 10 stellar instrumental and vocal tracks, the insightful, rhythmically diverse conversations are generated by the group’s core members (drummer Aaron Green, guitarist Cam Perridge, and vocalist Zoe Ellis) along with a dynamic list of guest artists including Grammy winning singer/songwriter/producer Tommy Sims (co-writer of the Eric Clapton pop classic “Change The World”), British singer/songwriter Geo Rey Williams, jazz/r&b guitar legend Paul Jackson, Jr., guitarist Levi Seacer (of Prince’s New Power Generation), New Orleans music scion Ivan Neville (clavinet), guitar sensation Eric Gales and members of the three time Grammy winning fusion band Snarky Puppy- saxophonist Chris Bullock, trumpeter Michael Maher, and percussionist Nate Werth.
Fuelled by Anders’ desire to create something positive at a time when there is so much negativity, Conversations made it’s Big Beautiful Noise with two #1 singles “Kite” and “The Way That We Love” on both the UK Soul Chart and the Indie Soul Chart with still no signs of slowing down.
“The name AgapéSoul comes from the Greek word agape meaning God’s unconditional love of all things, and soul- the place within in us where music comes from, and my love for that style of music,” the bassist says. “This music is a conversation between the musicians, who listen and respond to each other while also having a conversation with the audience and feeding to their energy. The conversation changes you, and those who listen will learn and be engaged in it for life. As AgapéSoul has grown, my idea as its producer was to incorporate di erent musicians that I love and respect, integrate their vibe into the conversation and see what happens.”
Working in the music business has also taught him the value of creating great relationships with his fellow musicians – an aesthetic that pays so brilliantly with the evolution of AgapéSoul.
EMiliYAH
EMiliYAH interview on Colourful Radio 08-November-2020
Born in Poland into a family with strong artistic roots. From a very young age trained to be a classical pianist, she rebelled and chose different ways and genres to express herself from Soul, Jazz & Blues. She never studied how to sing, even though both her parents were worldwide known opera singers.
Her music journey started a while ago in Poland where she made her first recordings and performed on TV & big stages with well-known artists and composers. After becoming a mum & dealing with personal circumstances, her career was put on hold.
In 2007 she immigrated to the UK to “build a better future” for her only daughter and to continue pursuing her own dreams. Music was always her main focus, love and passion so she was not able to escape it.
As she had a long break from singing and writing, she had to start everything from the beginning. 1st step was – karaoke bars, open mics etc. She never expected that music which will really pick her spirit up and bring her back to life will be Reggae.
Growing up in a post-communist country and being raised by strict parents, EMiliYAH never really had a chance to listen to a lot of music. But she always found it easy to come up with her own melodies instead.
Very open and sensitive to new sounds she fell in love with a lovers rock anthem SILLY GAMES (Janet Kay), when her friend played it to her for the 1st time.
That made her feel Reggae music even more. She knew from then, that this is what her heart desires. And that this is what she wants to sing. After lovers rock, she got into roots where she was able to express herself as a songwriter.
She calls it: MUSIC OF GRATITUDE – REBELLIOUS SOUL – GOSPEL OF MY HEART – JAHZZ..
Words & “message” are very important for EMiliYAH, as once what is put out in a song it stays forever. Positive vibes which are deeply rooted in Reggae, as she says “saved her life “.
Her 1st worldwide solo release song “Thank You” & EP ” EASY ” with her band the MightyZ All Stars, was written when she was going through a very difficult time in her life.
She continues her journey writing more songs to influence people with love, hope & faith. Her mission, since she remembers, is to share kindness, respect and positivity in order to make this world a better place.
Currently EMiliYAH and the band are working on a new material to be released very soon, hopefully every month from now, starting with a song ” SUNSHINE ” (1st Dec 2020).
On the side EMiliYAH is working her own riddims and collaborating with different artists under her own music studio (EMZ WORLD MUSIC)
Her 1st project which is already up and running is a duet ”NiE” with a friend Nati , also a Polish singer based in UK.
There is much more to come from this duet so as EMiliYAH herself and the band in 2021.
Omar Wilson
Omar Wilson interview on Colourful Radio 01-November-2020
Omar Wilson is no stranger to the music scene and has been performing in NYC and CT clubs for over a decade. He’s opened for artists like Boys II Men and The Neville Brothers. Growing up in Norwalk CT Omar’s influences included Sam Cooke, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Lauren Hill, Mary J Blige and old-time soul acts like the Delfonics. His music speaks to his own personal experiences growing up in an urban environment bridging the gap between Hip Hop and Soul.
Growing up 30 minutes from New York City, church members at the Calvary Baptist Church in his hometown of Norwalk noticed his ability to have a spiritual impact through his singing at the age of only 7. While performing regularly in New York, fans gravitated towards his unique, gritty vocals. It was at that point that Omar realized what he was born to do, Soul Music. Omar is a 3-time Apollo winner and was named Best R&B Male of the Year for 2 consecutive years at the Underground Music Awards held at BB Kings in NYC.
Through his journey and struggles Omar has finally come to understand his role as one of the industry’s top new Soul singers. He’s recorded with Multi-Platinum selling artist Angie Stone and DMX featuring them on songs he wrote. The track he recorded with Miss. Stone is ‘Get to Know You Better.’ Angie Stone was quoted saying “Working with Omar Wilson came naturally and he is one to watch!” DMX is one of the only rappers to have 5 consecutive albums go number 1 on the Billboards and rarely recorded with singers. Omar and DMX released a single called ‘Faith’ and they connected on the track instantaneously which is audibly tangible.
Omar’s personality and voice is contagious. He leaves a long standing impressions wherever he goes, sings and with whoever he meets. Get ready to experience Omar Wilson as he is soon to release his New single “Passion” coming this fall.
Lukas Setto
Lukas Setto interview on Colourful Radio 25-October-2020
Raised on the essential mix of Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye & Stevie and the wonders of his DJ Dad’s record collection, Lukas studied popular music at Stanmore College, Middlesex and it was there he was to craft his first composition. Later he explored the collective vocal harmony experience with a boy band but then realised that to graft solo was to be his way forward.
Whilst still in college, Lukas became the recipient of The Urban Music Award for Best Unsigned Artist (under the name of Lee Henry). He celebrated by wowing the audience with his live rendition of the self-penned “You Know Me”. Recognition finally for a boy that had excelled at sports, was distracted by the rites of passage of a troublesome youth and then as an adult was redeemed by the power of song.
UMA in hand; as Tru Menace, Lukas’s production pseudonym, he became a remixer for lovers of all forms of urban music. Taio Cruz, who had been a fellow student on his course, sought his creative polish. Soul inspiration Omar as well as international impresario Mark Ronson and Daniel Merriweather’s ‘Chainsaw’ and Jordan Sparks and Chris Brown’s ‘No Air’ were to benefit from the Tru Menace treatment. Further accolade was bestowed when ‘Y Did You Leave’ became a Number One hit with MTV Base for Tru Menace.
Treading the boards from the Jazz Café to the Shepherds Bush Empire and upwards, Lukas has supported Omar, Ne-Yo, Timbaland & Floetry. Lukas’ rendition of ‘Sometimes I Cry’ by Eric Benet at the BBC Radio London studios left presenter Jo Good speechless.
He continues to nurture his musical roots collaborating with Shanell, signed to Young Money and penned and co-produced tracks for X Factor Finalist Bradley Johnson from the Group Nu Vibe and Kitty Brucknell – as well as the soul hits “Looking For Love” by Michelle Lawson and “Plus One” by Shaila Prospere (#1 UK Soul Chart). 2019 saw Lukas support RnB group Portrait at Stamford Bridge’s prestigious venue ‘Under The Bridge’ and headline renowned ‘Margate Soul Festival’.
After some trials and tribulations as Jadan Lee – Lukas sought a new chapter, a new direction – an alter ego……. And so we introduce you to Lukas Setto (Setto being a nickname given to him by a friend in college because of his smooth falsetto vocals)!
Currently working in the studio, on music that inspires the soul, whilst exploring “the dynamics of film music” to crossover; Lukas comments on themes inspired by celebrity culture, sex, love and addiction – fusing real life experiences with fiction – which can be heard in his debut single What Turns You On, followed by OMG and Make It Rain, Lockdown and his latest release Do It Again.
Tanqueray Hayward
Tanqueray Hayward interview on Colourful Radio 11-October-2020
Born in Philadelphia in 1978, music was calling Hayward’s name from a very early age. Getting her first taste for the musical spotlight, Hayward started singing in church. Like many legendary singers before her, most notably: Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle, and Aretha Franklin, the church provides the basics for soul singers when learning breath control, tone and confidence. Hayward has indeed taken notes and passed the class with flying colours.
Growing up and finding her voice, Hayward spent many days and nights belting out the songs from her idols, including “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul”-Mary J. Blige, the pioneering gospel group, The Clark Sisters and the iconic gospel music great, the late Mahalia Jackson.
After taking a leap of faith and resigning from a medical career, Hayward’s vocal potency landed her the opportunity to record background vocals for pop star Pink and open for internationally-acclaimed gospel artist Marvin Sapp in Philadelphia. In addition, Hayward has shared the stage with Carol Riddick, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Cedric Napoleon (Pieces of a Dream), Mozaic Flow, Lee Williams and the Spiritual QC’s, The Joy Boyz and Shawn “Coco” McMillan just to name a few!
Currently, Hayward is enjoying the experience of performing to sold-out crowds at renowned music venues throughout Philadelphia. Hayward’s vocal ability and stage presence are potent for all who dare to experience it without a filter.
Hayward’s performances have been hailed as electrifying within the walls of the tabernacle as well as on stages of acclaimed live music venues. On any given evening, she exudes the gritty tenacity of Tina Turner paired with the sultry vulnerability of British-Nigerian renowned vocal enigma, Sade.
With Hayward serving in the United States Navy, she learned valuable life lessons of self-discipline and an incredible work ethic which has naturally flowed over to her rising music career. As her fan base continues to grow, Hayward has her eyes set on the big picture. “I want to bring back the music that’s been missing, the music I grew up on! Good soul music” she said. “I have a passion for performing and I am working very hard at my craft so that one day I can be a successful recording artist.”
Philadelphia’s contribution to rhythm and blues, soul and popular music is only rivalled by Detroit’s own Motown, which also birthed a plethora of iconic musical artists. Visionaries Gamble & Huff formed the famed Philadelphia International Records and created a sound known as “Philly Soul.” So much talent comes out of Philadelphia. From the rich and soul-stirring vocal talents of Patti LaBelle, Phyllis Hyman, Jill Scott and Jazmine Sullivan. To rap/hip-hop music pioneers, The Roots and DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, the City of Brotherly Love’s musical influence is first-rate.
Tanqueray Hayward’s artistic impact and contribution to the musical landscape of Philadelphia is now becoming undeniable. Currently recording her highly anticipated debut album, Hayward is working tirelessly to prove herself worthy to be mentioned in the company mentioned above. “One day soon” Hayward added. Well, that day is arriving real soon.
Light Of The World (Gee Bello)
Light Of The World (Gee Bello) interview on Colourful Radio 13-September-2020
With a string of classic Brit Funk, Dance Anthems notched up in the late 70’s and early 80’s there is no doubt that Light of the World laid the foundation for the British Dance/Street Soul movement.
Light of the World brought a distinctive blend of funk and jazz influences to the world of R&B from 1979 to 1983 via hits such as the fast-driving “Swingin’,” the smooth and groovy “London Town,” and the majestic ballad, “I’m So Happy.”
It’s hard to believe that two decades have passed since the band last reunited for 1999’s Inner Voices album. The bands stunning musical prowess carved a formidable reputation both on vinyl and with their live stage work, before the band (initially an 8 piece aggregation) split into 4 units, Beggar & Co, Incognito, Brit Funk Association and Light of the World.
We are picking up right where we left off with a new album led by a creative nucleus of Gee Bello (Vocals/Percussion), Nat Augustin (Vocals/Guitar) and Mel Gaynor (Drums) accompanied by other great British and American musicians.
The new album Jazz Funk Power showcases a unique hybrid which meshes their considerable musical and authentic abilities.
The Jazz Funk Power album came about after realising that many of our favourite bands like Earth Wind and Fire, Incognito, Jamiroquai, Tower of Power, Brand New Heavies, Kool and The Gang and Chic were still enjoying success many decades later.
With our records still being played across national and worldwide radio with digital streaming platforms too, we realised our music also has a timeless quality, therefore Jazz Funk really does have Power and Energy … so it felt right to name the album Jazz Funk Power”.
We are so happy that our music is now available Worldwide at the click of a button and thrilled to be making new music for our fans.
Ed Robinson
Ed Robinson interview on Colourful Radio 23-August-2020
Good music is born out of a desire to tell a story to a wide range of listeners across all walks of life. With his drive and passion for music, International Reggae Artist and Producer, Ed Robinson is bringing reggae music to the world.
Ed Robinson is a musical veteran and icon with a strong and deeply rooted musical background. With music as a priority and driving force in his life, the singer injects his brilliant musicality into every aspect of his life. Robinson began his musical career as a drummer in a school band and showed signs from a very early on of his intense musical talent. Over the years he found himself becoming a key player in many genres of music, including Reggae, Rock, Soul, Hip Hop and R&B.
Robinson is a rare blend of an entertainer, songwriter, music producer, and invigorating performer. He has released over ten albums, each of which displays his immense talent and have helped him to top the reggae music charts throughout his career as an artist. As a producer, he has worked with some of the industry’s most well-known voices, including Dennis Brown, Richie Stephens, Buju Banton, Luciano, Maxi Priest, Super Cat, Snoop Dogg, and many others. Ed Robinson’s ability to seamlessly transition across various parts of the industry makes him an exceptional person to work with, listen to, and watch perform. Robinson consistently brings a high level of energy, dedication, and hard work to all his musical endeavors.
With over 200 songs and twelve albums in his catalog, Robinson has emerged as one of the most highly sought-after reggae artists in the industry. He debuted his first album on the VP Records Label titled, “Once Again” in 1992 with the seminal “Knocking on Heaven’s Door.” He later signed a record deal with MCA Records in the early nineties. Following his deal with MCA Records, Robinson later released both “Sky is the Limit” in 2004 and “Solitude” in 2005 which included both classic tracks, “No More Mr. Lonely” and Dennis Brown’s staple “Ain’t That Lovin You.” In the year 2008, Robinson released the album “The Awakening,” both written and produced by Jerome Rhodd. Robinson later began working with the Push Broom Gang Label and released “Written in Stone” in 2011. This pivotal album includes major hits such as “Our Heroes”, “If I Follow My Heart”, and “Talking Blues”. Robinson’s track, “Our Heroes” hit mainstream radio stations, and satellite radio stations across the globe, including SiriusXM Radio. “On Covers”, an album where Robinson covers some of the music industry’s legends was released in 2014, also on the Pushbroom Gang Label. Both “Written in Stone” and “On Covers” were produced by Luciana Maneri. In the year 2014, Ed Robinson was working concurrently on releasing both “On Covers” and the “Tribute to John Holt”, which gave him the chance to pay homage to the late John Holt. This album was produced by Kemar “Flava” McGregor. The following year, Robinson released his eighth studio album “Yard Magic”. The hit single, “Kool Off” sat at the top spot in the New York and Florida album charts in late 2015. Following this success, Ed Robinson released several tracks in 2016, including “Thinking of You” on the VPAL label and “The Blame Game” on the Pushbroom Gang label. In 2017, he produced a Dennis Brown tribute EP containing seven tracks. In addition, he recorded a track entitled “Baby I Will Be There” on Di Jugglin Vol 1 Various Artist Album for JTMC Muzik Label. In 2018, Robinson released “Glory and Praise” a stunning gospel album. Presently in 2019, he recorded two singles – one song on the Hush Riddim for JTMC Muzik label ” Go Live Your Life” and an acoustic version of “Suddenly” with both songs making waves across the world.
In addition to his brilliant catalogue of albums and singles, Ed Robinson has displayed an exceptional talent for performing and capturing the heart and soul of the music he sings. He has illustrated a unique ability to connect with his audience through his art. Robinson has performed across the globe, including iconic and thrilling performances at: Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica, Beres Hammond and Friends Florida Tour, Germany Tour, Four Seasons Cruise with Freddie McGregor and Glen Washington, Caribbean Heritage Month, Ziggy Marley and friends, Rebel Salute, St. Kitts Music Festival, Merritones Annual Event, Reggae In the Mountains, Caribbean Heritage Month, Red Stripe 100th Anniversary, Minnesota Carifest, Jamaica Day, NJ, Caribbean Cultural Fest, Macys Concert Series, and Winter Jam.
Currently and future years to come, the music industry and the world look forward to more groundbreaking music, performances and tours by Ed Robinson. Robinson has brought his music to a new level and has shared his love and passion for creating music for the world.
Ed Robinson’s new album is ‘On Covers II’.
Ed Robinson taking music to Infinity and beyond.
Vincent Darby
Vincent Darby interview on Colourful Radio 12-July-2020
Rising Soul Singer Vincent Darby has unveiled his brand new single, ‘Still Here We Are’.
Produced in Shaggy’s Big Yard Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, ‘Still Here We Are’ deploys a chilled, downbeat production that allows Vincent’s flawless vocal prowess to take centre stage. He says,” ‘Still Here We Are’ came from a place of not quite understanding the ‘situation-ship’ that I was in; a story about how something can be so good, but also so bad,”.
The single follows a recent performance for the BBC Radio 1 ‘Big Weekender’ virtual event, with Darby’s stock continuing to rise. Having had the continued support of BBC Introducing, his previous release ‘Baby Oh I’ was spun on BBC Radio 1Xtra and BBC Radio 1 after being selected as their ‘Track of the Week’.
A graduate of the acclaimed Birmingham Ormiston Academy, Vincent Darby has been singing regularly from the age of five. He then performed at Birmingham’s O2 Academy in support of Flo Rida, after a record producer watched a video of him performing ‘Fallin’ by Alicia Keys on YouTube. Last year, Vincent released his debut 3-track EP, ‘Baby Oh I’.
‘Still Here We Are’ sees the Birmingham artist flex his superb vocal talents to the full. With plenty to come from the soul singer, Vincent Darby is an artist to watch.
B & The Family
B & The Family interview on Colourful Radio 05-July-2020
B and The Family, released their debut single this week on iTunes and all streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple Music, as well as Amazon and Google Play. The energetic and soulful track was co-written by Brian K. Morgan and Katie Goulet, a husband and wife team who also produced the song.
“A Good Time” blends old school production sounds with a contemporary feel, including a driving bass line and an infectious hook. It’s about the joy of spending time with the one you love and letting them know how you feel. “A Good Time” is already seeing early action in the UK, with radio adds and a limited 7″ vinyl release that is quickly selling out.
Brian K. Morgan aka “B” is best known for his song writing and production work with producer and singer Kashif. Morgan is also the guitarist on the hip-hop classic from The Sugar Hill Gang “Rapper’s Delight.” The rest of the band is all relative, with wife Katie Goulet on bass, and their daughter Tayler Morgan-Stephens on drums and Evie Goulet on keyboards.
Toyin Adekale
Toyin Adekale interview on Colourful Radio 28-June-2020
Toyin Adekale singer/songwriter/actress and now author, born in London to West African parents. Toyin had a successful career in music as a singer/songwriter, traveling all over the world, performing for Kings & Queens, Presidents & Prime Ministers and dignitaries. Her platform was as varied as her life from clubs, theatres and stadiums, to Palaces and State buildings such as the Houses of Parliament in London, to the Kremlin in Russia.
Toyin Adekale’s career started at the tender age of 15 as a solo artist, where she also discovered her gift for harmony. Having sung with nearly all the reggae greats from Dennis Brown and Gregory Isaacs, her gifts were sought by other genre’s where she became vocal coordinator/arranger and backing vocalist to the likes of Soul II Soul, Imagination, Cliff Richard, Maxi Priest and sharing the stage with so many great names too numerous to mention. During Toyin’s solo career she was the fourth member of Boney M (featuring Maizie Williams for 13 years).
In 2005 Toyin Adekale came to the US with her children, putting her career, family and fans behind her to live a somewhat “normal life” of motherhood and a total change of lifestyle. In the first 2 years of Toyin’s transitioning to American life, she also faced some serious life changing challenges, dealing with health, divorce, children and helplessness brought on by life issues. During this time Toyin found a new calling on her life and an overwhelming desire to cause positive change and effect in other people’s lives.
Toyin had touched people with her music in the past, but not the way she now desired. Toyin’s writing skills and theatre experience, laced with her musical background was to be amalgamated for that higher calling at last. Toyin was no longer pursuing a career of fame and fortune, she had once tasted. Instead, her new path was now pursuing her.
Toyin Adekale wore many belts as an artist. She had the UK’s first reggae choir ‘Talithavoices’, label and Arts & Entertainments Company, Talithavoices Enterprise, which is an umbrella of all forms of artistic expression in the name of entertaining, whilst improving people’s lives. Toyin has finally come to where she believes has been called to, as the pages unfold and her stories are now told in her new book (with a single of the same title “I DO, DO YOU?” (also available on iTunes and cdbaby) Check out other Toyin Adekale CDs on cdbaby. 2012 Toyin sings unto Him a love song “With You I’m Born Again”
2020 see the return of Toyin and her new CD “THE JOURNEY CONTINUES” – The devastating loss of Toyin’s 21 year old son, took her on a roller coaster of overwhelming pain, that would take Toyin to a crossroad in her life. Her parting conversation with Bakari (the youngest of her 2 children), was to encourage her to follow the path that he believes God has cut out for her, to continue her music and inspiring others, to get back to her purpose and her passion. All injected into this 14 track album.
Metropolis
Metropolis interview on Colourful Radio 07-June-2020
Welcome to the “City within the City”, as one of music cultures sought after Meccacities Atlanta serves as the backdrop of the musical story and journey of Alternative Soul group/band Metropolis. The city that has produced more contemporary urban music stars than any other on the map is the city that shaped METROPOLIS.
For Jai Black, Calvin Glass, and Dominic Hall coming of age in Atlanta helped them shape their voices and sound. “Metropolis means the heart of the city, we wanted to be the heart of music and represent every genre of music.” says Jai Black, the de facto leader of the group. “You don’t only have to do one thing rap, R&B, soul, rock, country, blues or alternative whatever you do in the studio and whatever comes out musical creativity, musical freedom is the foundation of what makes musical expression the universal language”. Their every genre sound was exemplified on their debut album, The Voyage, released in 2005 The album made the group stars in the UK prompting an extended stay and extensive touring overseas. The UK success prompted a massive response for the artists and allowed them to build a fan base, as well as exposed them to new artists and new sounds. “We came back inspired and the Metropolis sound expanded, being overseas we became exposed to different music and different sounds, we went into an experimental phase.” The success of The Voyage allowed the opportunity to open for and tour with major artists, they have opened for Mary J. Blige, Fantasia, Carl Thomas, and Omar. Metropolis also opened for Blackstreet and Guy during their UK reunion tour. “We had big crowds knowing the words to our songs,” the group recalls, “We still have been able to hold on to that fan base to this day.” The musical journey for Metropolis was far longer, wider, broader, and more colourful than they could of expected. As the winds of change and transition blew across music’s ever changing landscape the progression of the Metropolis sound continued to evolve. The group’s passion for creating music set into motion what would later be called “The Vault”, an archive of recorded unreleased studio gems that Metropolis is gearing to release Spring/Summer 2020.
Chyna Nicole
Chyna Nicole interview on Colourful Radio 31-May-2020
Born in New York City of proud Jamaican parents from Waterhouse, (Carl and Yvonne), Chyna-Nicole read the back of Michael Jackson’s album covers at the tender age of 5 and begun her song-writing techniques.
The rich musical culture of Waterhouse is instilled in Chyna although birthed in the US. Her father was the first apprentice to Legendary U-Roy and was an artist himself recording for Legendary Reggae producers Joe Gibbs and Duke Reid. Chyna’s Mom also was a part of the rich musical tradition as REGGAE’S FIRST GRAMMY AWARD WINNING Michael Rose and the group Black Uhuru rehearsed in their back yard in early days.
Chyna Nicole began singing and song writing as a young child heavily influenced by Michael Jackson. Although she was creative, Chyna Nicole was always a scholar. She was awarded the President Ronald Reagan Award during her middle school years for scholastic achievement and was named Valedictorian.
She continued to graduate on the National Honor Society from Kolbe Cathedral. From choreographing dance routines in high school (Connecticut), to recording R&B demos while at Howard University, Chyna’s passion for music remained consistent. Her first release was in 1994 “Love Me Tenderly” performed with Lukie D under her father’s label, Little C in Kingston, Jamaica.
Chyna was penned the name “China” in high school by friends at Kolbe Cathedral. She renamed her own artist name -Nicole Williams- which on the 1994 release LOVE ME TENDERLY and later changed her artist name to CHYNA NICOLE for future releases.
Upon graduating from Howard University majoring in Radio/TV/Film and working for various media arenas (NY) including Showtime Networks, WNET, VP Records, and Westwood One Radio, she relocated to Kingston, Jamaica to record an album with local producer Carl Williams (her father) in 2000.
Although the album did not materialize, Chyna Nicole obtained the role of a disc jockey at Zip103FM. Her music selection of old school Hip Hop, Reggae and Dancehall with her gravitating personality lead her to be one of the most popular DJ’s in a short time span. She also worked as an Announcer on IRIE FM where she co-hosted The Entertainment Buzz interviewing the likes of Marcia Griffith, Berries Hammond and many more Reggae Icons. With rising popularity, producers welcomed her to record.
Grammy Judge Earle Holder, her chief advisor and mastering engineer, is responsible for getting Chyna Nicole’s music its first European exposure. Down Beat The Ruler and others also work behind the scenes.
Appointed QUEEN OF THE WATERHOUSE DYNASTY by former manager Fitzroy Francis, as the first female out of this community to rise in the music industry. Her mission is to rebuild the community with resources for the education of children.
Chyna Nicole continued to pursue her educational passion along with music. She continues to teach and lead earning her Masters of Education from the University of New Haven and a Sixth Year Diploma from Southern Connecticut State University.
Because of her scholastic achievement, she joins the likes of distinguished former President Bill Clinton, Desmond Tutu, Elie Wiesel to name a few as a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society.
Chyna Nicole is committed to teaching, learning, leadership and music. She is passionate about arts and education to nurture scholars for life long learning. She continues to show commitment in her daily works.
Support this Independent Artist by purchasing her three productions QUEENS IN THE ARENA – KEMET RIDDIM Various Artists, HIGHER” released in 2016 and “20 Years in the Making & Ready for World. HISTORY as the first all female album drops!
In 2019, Chyna Nicole drops her first Various Artists album production under her label Nico Star Music. The album is titled “QUEENS IN THE ARENA – KEMET RIDDIM” which features hit maker Nadine Sutherland, Reggae Legend Pam Hall, First Lady of Dancehall Lady Ann, Billboard Helen Rogers, chart hitting Chyna Nicole and many more rising stars!
Lloyd Brown
Lloyd Brown interview on Colourful Radio 29-March-2020
Over the course of the past five decades, Lloyd Brown has
risen to the very pinnacle of his profession, and with a string of hit singles
and critically acclaimed albums to his credit, is now hailed as one of this
country’s best ever reggae vocalist/songwriter/producers.
Born and raised in London to Jamaican parents, he began his
career in 1979 by dee-jaying in “blues-dances” before progressing on fully
fledged sound-systems in the early eighties with London-based sound-systems Jah
Marcus, Exodus and East Man. After taking a sabbatical in Jamaica, he then
joined vocal harmony group Sweet Distortion, who were voted Best Reggae
Newcomers by the readers of Black Echoes in 1984, just prior to their guest
appearance on the BRAFA (British Reggae Artists Famine Appeal) single, Let’s
Make Africa Green Again. Led by Lloyd’s namesake and early source of musical
inspiration, Dennis Brown, this record helped raised funds for Ethiopian famine
victims, and remains a milestone of UK reggae history.
By 1987 Sweet Distortion had successfully auditioned for the
part of the Jackson Five in the acclaimed British musical, Black Heroes In The
Hall Of Fame produced by the late Flip Fraser, but split up soon afterwards,
leaving Lloyd free to pursue a solo career. His earliest singles included Music
Medley, Ring Up My Number and The Love In Me, all of them released on Robert
‘Ribs’ Fearon’s Unity label circa 1987. In the meantime, he’d started
performing more demanding roles with Black Heroes In The Hall Of Fame – most
notably those of Otis Redding, Marcus Garvey, Haile Selassie and Nelson
Mandela. Sharing The Night (produced by the late Junior Frost), then provided
him with his first No. 1 hit, and was voted Reggae Single Of The Year in 1990.
You Can’t Hurry Love, For The Love Of You and Love U Down (his second No. 1
hit, and another Reggae Single Of The Year) soon followed, together with a
version of Otis Redding’s These Arms Of Mine.
Despite his success with other people’s songs, Lloyd was
increasingly writing his own material by this time, as demonstrated on It’s A
Love Thing, which marked the start of his long-standing partnership with Saxon
sound system dee-jay Tippa Irie. Their follow-up smash hit, Stress, caused controversy
since it put into song what many men were thinking about their female partners,
but both singles duly topped the UK reggae charts, then won the duo a
well-deserved contract with Arista, who released their follow-up single, Baby
Mother (another vibrant slice of social commentary), in 1995. An album recorded
for Arista during this period was subsequently released as Combination on
Discotex at the end of 2001 – Lloyd & Tippa’s association with Arista
having ended as unexpectedly as it had begun.
Undaunted by such disappointments and eager to reclaim his
popularity among grassroots reggae fans, Lloyd began recording with leading UK
lovers’ rock producers Groove And & Quarter, who issued his debut album,
Straight No Chaser, in 1996. Among the many highlights was A Mother’s Prayer,
which he recorded with a veritable Who’s Who of UK soul and reggae talent and
dedicated to the memory of his mother, who’d recently died of cancer. Two other
tracks, Jah Works and Increase The Peace, offered early evidence of the roots
and culture content he was to showcase on his next double CD set, Rhyme &
Reason, which he recorded for Saxon. Prior to its release in 1998, the singles
We Need A Revolution and Power Of Jah had marked a turning point in both his
life and career. His new head of dreadlocks illustrated this change of
direction, and he began writing lyrics with far more spiritual content than
before, even whilst continuing to make sublime lovers rock hits such as Night
Shift, Blackbird and Real Love. He named Buju Banton’s ‘Til Shiloh LP as a
formative influence during this stage of his career, and after announcing that
the emergence of the new cultural artists had taken reggae to a different
plane, said he wanted to sing songs that will uplift people.
His Saxon album thus had transformation at its artistic
core, and with its emphasis on self-penned material, proved a masterly showcase
of his talents. Once Saxon producer Lloyd “Muscle Head” Francis had decided to
concentrate on his sound-system, rather than production, the durable Mr. Brown
embarked on a run of hits for Jet Star that still shows no sign of abating
three years later. Their most significant triumph to date has been a massively
successful cover of Craig David’s Fill Me In, as included on Vol. 2 of Jet Star’s
Pop Hits In A Reggae series. With Fill Me In getting regular airplay in Jamaica
– where Lloyd enjoys widespread support – Jet Star then helped further his
dominance with several other notable single releases, including Hook It Up, Put
It Down and Memories, which like Humanity Part 2 (recorded for Mikey Koos’ ARM
label), is another joyous celebration of old school reggae vibes, and so
steeped in nostalgia, it could bring tears to the eyes.
In-between voicing for Jet Star and making preparations for
his starring role in yet another musical, The Best Years Of Our Lives (starring
alongside the great Pam Hall), Lloyd then began work on an independent project
with former international hit maker Bitty McLean, who’d served his
apprenticeship with UB40. Aided and abetted by Bitty’s production and
engineering skills, and with his own creative ideas going into overdrive, Lloyd
completed the nucleus of his album Deep at Bitty’s Platinum Suite studios in
Birmingham before adding a choice selection of Jet Star material into the mix.
It was the kind of album only true craftsmen could produce. Its dazzling range
of lyrical perceptions being matched to some of the most enthralling,
contemporary reggae and crossover rhythms heard all year. I Know (inspired by
Bob Marley’s Kinky Reggae) subsequently became one of 2001’s biggest reggae
hits, even as Deep was being acclaimed as a masterpiece and his best album thus
far. By the time the follow-up, Against The Grain, was released two years later
his tally of hit singles had swelled to include You Must Know, co-starring Don
Campbell; Bless Me and the unstoppable Main Squeeze, which rocketed into the
Reggae Top 5 on both sides of the Atlantic.
Like its predecessor, Against The Grain was another
world-class collection, showcasing tracks like the popular Mr. Brown, Food For
Thought (a version of Aswad’s Warrior Charge); he and Omar’s stunning cover of
Stevie Wonder’s Feeding Off The Love Of The Land and the magical Love Within
The Music, co-starring a galaxy of UK talent. Against The Grain was nominated
for Best Album at the 11th Annual Reggae Soca Awards in Florida; an event that
saw Lloyd being crowned Best Newcomer for the second time in his career. His
next set was Dreams To Remember, produced by Lloyd Campbell and released on VP
Records in 2004. This album, recorded in Miami, yielded four hit singles in the
shape of Bless Me, Since You’ve Been Gone, Heartaches and Bongo Nyah, which
soon gave Lloyd his second Reggae Top 5 hit in New York. Songs like that,
voiced over Lloyd Campbell’s more traditional style reggae rhythms, fuelled
growing demand for his sublime vocal and writing talents in America. Its
success prompted the release of an album shared with Peter Hunnigale as part of
Jet Star’s celebrated Toe 2 Toe series that same year. Here was an album that
made artistic, as well as commercial sense, since both singers epitomise the
best of UK reggae music.
Three of Lloyd’s more recent hits were included, namely Full
Hundred, No Watch Dat and the compelling Black Bags, together with other tracks
that inspired comparisons with reggae legend Beres Hammond. Red-hot form like
this saw him embark on a string of European tour dates with Sanchez throughout
the summer of 2004, as he continued on his journey towards some long-overdue
international recognition. His follow-up album for VP Really Together featuring
Fiona was cited by Lloyd as a “true labour of love” as Fiona was an artist he
really admired and wanted to work with-which proved its point in the finished
product, also with the reggae panel of the Grammys who have shortlisted the
album for nomination for Best Reggae Album 2005. Armed with album number 10
called Said And Done in the bag (entirely self-produced) and his own studio
Riddimworks Production House, truly demonstrated his skills as a producer in
his own right with all he has absorbed culminating thus far.
Further expanding his all-round skills, Lloyd broadened his
Riddimworks “imprint” on other projects in 2007, co-producing fellow U.K Lovers
King Michael Gordon’s “Poems and Rhymes” set, also U.K Lovers Queen Donna
Marie’s “Next Chapter” and various music-video projects showcasing his
extraordinary skills as a director, headed by his truly cinematic offering of
“I’m Sorry” which co-stars his peer and friend Peter Hunnigale. His eleventh
landmark release entitled Silver, celebrates Lloyd’s 25th year in the music
industry and has undoubtedly stood testament in his long and distinguished
career. The album’s opener “Show Me That You Love Me” voiced on Tarrus Riley’s
monster hit riddim “She’s Royal” proves that Lloyd’s song-writing skills are in
effect and leans not solely on the riddim to carry his songs..far from it. When
he does put pen to paper, as on “From The Root”, “Up To You”, the powerful and
haunting “Charcoal Bridges” and the truly wonderful “Seacole”, a song
commissioned by Flip Fraser to feature in the hit musical Black Heroes In The
Hall Of Fame, and written about nurse Mary Seacole, the quality shines through
like a beacon, and you remember just how lucky we are having a reggae artist
like him in our midst.
2008 saw Lloyd’s appeal grow to a more international status,
amassing fans in Japan, North and South America and numerous territories. In
turn, Lloyd concentrated towards embarking on promotional tours in the U.S,
starting off in California. The tour proved so successful, that he was booked
speedily to tour California again in early 2009. In between time, Lloyd worked
on his twelfth album entitled “Brownie Points”. This album was a slight
departure to material he had recorded before, but nonetheless had the
unmistakable Lloyd Brown imprint that has been skillfully carved throughout his
career. Covers and originals blending beautifully to present another concept
album, headed by 12 various “Brownie Points” describing in song his
observations and also, what makes the man tick. Covers such as “It Takes Two”
duet with Lovers Rock chanteuse Sylvia Tella, Dennis Brown’s “Ray Of Light” and
Nicky Thomas’ angelic “Love Is” simply describes what love is in musical terms
so well, that the coldest of hearts will truly melt to it. Originals, such as
the salsa-tinged “Loco Theng” takes you on a heady trip to Acapulco in the
first two bars, and “Forgive Them” duet with friend and peer Peter Spence takes
you to the hills in Jamaica amongst the Rasta brethren and sistren citing
forgiveness as the way forward for humankind.
Not being a man to rest on his laurels….Lloyd released his
thirteenth album entitled “For Your Consideration” accompanied by his
Riddimworks Films produced music video “It’s Not About…..” released
thru Riddimworks/Cousins Records November 2009. The album featured hits such as
Dean “Cannon” Fraser production of “Know Yourself” “Empress One A Way” and the
awesome “Badbwoy” featuring fast rising Dancehall DJs Mr. Williamz and Juxci D
was toured extensively on the US West Coast throughout most of 2010 to crtical
acclaim.
In 2010, Lloyd’s consummate consistency had now produced his
fourteenth studio album entitled “Cornerstone” which was released entirely
independently through his Riddimworks Productions label, which on this occasion
had an American import release, the first for a UK based Reggae Artist. The
seventeen track album boasts a large eleven collaborations, which not only
features long established artists such as Macka B, General Levy, Nereus Joseph,
Rodney P and Top Cat, but also features bright new talents such as Dancehall
act Babyboom, U.S Hip Hop act Krytykal: Tha’ Problem and songstresses Miss Kjah
and Adele Harley. His decision to feature new talent proved wise and fruitful
for all concerned as their respective profiles have raised to further works and
recognition with other producers. Highlights from the album includes, Rootdown
Records’ Thilo “Teka” Jacks produced ska-tinged “She Nuh Easy”, Lloyd’s self-produced
homage to Joe Higgs with his version of “There’s a Reward For Me” and Lloyd’s
duet with Miss Kjah on “In Every Way You Can”.
2012 saw another landmark year for Lloyd as he had released
his fifteenth 20-track studio album celebrating three decades of making music
simply entitled “30” released in February 2012 via Riddimworks Productions and
Phoenix Music International The standout track which garnered him a Top 3
Reggae Chart hit was the crowd-rocking “Get To Know Ya” utilizing Dennis
Brown’s seminal Lovers Rock hit “Someone Special” also utilising Bob Marley and
the Wailers’ “Could You Be Loved” with his Disco/Reggae rendition of “Catch The
Feeling. Still on the Wailer’s tip, Lloyd collaborated with three of his peers
and friends Don Campbell, Delroy Pinnock and R n B singer Wayne Marshall and
covered the awesome “Pass It On” from their “Burnin” album A master stroke was
performed when Lloyd collaborated with Diva Grace Jones on the remix of the
Pretenders’ Chryssie Hynde’s penned “Private Life” featuring the Riddim Twins
Sly N Robbie which coincidentally was thirty years old [at the time of
recording] and still sounds fresh today.
2013 had seen a level of ambition not realized by Lloyd
before as he had released TWO albums, the first being his “New Veteran” set,
again released via his Riddimworks Productions and Phoenix Music International
which consummately provides the all-round versatility that his peers and fans
come to know and love, featuring highlights such as the roots filled
collaboration with R n B songstress Kele Le Roc entitled “If You Want Good” the
first music video release from the album, also a latin/salsa tinged dancehall
collaboration with the exquisitely lyrical Tanya Stephens on “Bada Boom, Bada
Bing” alongside sparkling solo efforts such as the hits “Crush On You” and “My
Baby Loves Me” produced by veteran artisans Willie Lindo and Bunny Lee
respectively as well as the moving and awesome posthumous collaboration with
the “Crown Prince of Reggae” Dennis Emmanuel Brown with their rendition of the
Eagles’ country classic “Lyin’ Eyes”.
The second set of the year saw a third party release in
conjunction with acclaimed Florida/Virgin Islands production outfit Zion High
Productions whom Lloyd had recorded various projects with prior entitled
“Rootical” an entirely original recording project released in October 2013. The
first release from the “Rootical” set was the haunting and deep “What You Sow”
taking an old time proverb and reiterating it in such a way that it paints a
picture to the mind immediately. Other highlights feature the title track
featuring chanter Pressure Buss Pipe which sets the tone for the whole album in
one fell swoop. Other collaborations such as “How Could I” include rising
artist Yisrael Immanuel, “Keep On Keeping On” featuring Jahdan Blakkamoore and
the anthemic “Together” featuring lioness roots singer Queen Omega.
Spring 2014 saw Lloyd return to his productive form with yet
another milestone album entitled ‘LB50’ celebrating his 50th birthday, with a
collection of eighteen varied tracks featuring collaborations with veteran DJ
Sarjant D on his introduction track ‘Fiddy’, Homefront Productions Patrick
Anthony on joint production and performing collaborations on the sound boy
killing ‘My Sound’ and tropically lovers rock tinged ‘There You Are’ also the
standout hit track ‘All About You’ featured on the Mighty Diamonds’ ‘Country
Living’ riddim, culminating with the ‘father and son duet’ entitled ‘Faith’
featuring his son Courtney, his first commercial debut recording.
Autumn 2015 saw the release of TWO albums from Lloyd. The
first being a collection/compilation of sixteen tracks recorded on Studio
One/Treasure Isle/Rock Steady compositions across his eighteen albums called
‘From The Old School’ featuring two new tracks, one of which was an ode to his
childhood residence and childhood memories entitled ‘Pembroke Road’ and the
second, a cover of Bob Marley and The Wailers’ ‘Pimpers Paradise’.
The second album release of the year saw yet another
milestone for Lloyd, in which he released his twentieth studio album entitled
‘Twenty’ a sixteen track project which contained production collaborations with
the late Lloyd Campbell [Joe Fraser] Willie Lindo [Heavybeat Records] David
Simmonds [Heddrokk Productions] David ‘Jah D’ Goldfine [Zion High Productions]
Patrick Anthony [Homefront Productions] Chris Peckings [Peckings Records] also
performing collaborations with fellow Reggae artists Don Campbell, Peter
Hunnigale on the hymnal ‘Never Leave You Lonely’, Veteran actor and artiste,
the late Count Prince Miller covering comedians Morecambe and Wise’s ‘Bring Me
Sunshine’, also Third World’s Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore on the beautiful Nyahbinghi
themed ‘Give Thanks with Praise’
2016 saw Lloyd take a sabbatical before releasing his 21st
studio album entitled ‘Vocalist’ in October 2017 to concentrate on producing
his former backing singer Lyn’s first studio album entitled ‘Debut’ released
May 2017 and fellow former Riddimworks Band backing singer Shade Aman’s set
entitled ‘Travelling Hopefully’ which was released in November 2017 ‘Vocalist’
forms an entirely worldly and varied ORIGINAL set from the Reggae icon
featuring production collaborations from Patrick Anthony [Homefront Productions
UK/JA] Carlton ‘Bubblers’ Ogilvie [Nu-Edge Productions – UK] Peter Hunnigale
[Street Vibes – UK] Dominic Gomes [D Rebell Productions – Trinidad] Oliver
Schrader [Silly Walks Movement – Germany] and David ‘Jah D’ Goldfine Andrew ‘Moon’
Bain Laurent ‘Tippy’ Alfred [Zion I Kings/Zion High Productions –
Florida/Virgin Islands]. Also featuring vocal collaborations from Fiona
[US/Jamaica], Aleighcia Scott [Wales] and Babyboom [UK/Jamaica] also touring
his live concerts with his Riddimworks Band.
2018 has seen a busy year for Lloyd in terms of his solo
output of album material, one of which was the extended release of his
‘Vocalist: Digital Deluxe Edition’ which contains six bonus tracks featuring
collaborations with Adele Harley, Chucky Bantan, Grantie Asher, Jacquie George,
Chardel Rhoden and Dean Fraser and additional productions from Gary ‘Digitec’
Lewis, Carlton ‘Bubblers’ Ogilvie and Patrick Anthony.
2019 saw the releases of his 22nd compilation studio album
‘Collabs: Vol 1’ featuring collaborations with British and international
Reggae, Pop, RnB and Hip Hop artistes such as Don Campbell, Don Ricardo,
Michael Gordon, Paulette Tajah, Grace Jones, Sly n Robbie, Beres Hammond
and Tanya Stephens to name a few [also a debut featuring his son Courtney]
Coupled with his his 23rd studio project album ‘Brown
and Bubblers’ album featuring ten original riddim tracks built and produced by
the legendary UK Reggae producer Carlton ‘Bubblers’ Ogilvie and original songs
written and performed by Lloyd, exclusively released on Carlton’s ‘Nu-Edge
label and website [www.nuedgemusic.com].
Spring 2020 heralded the release of Lloyd’s ‘labour of
love’ various artists 24th studio album project entitled ‘The Salute Project’
with Lloyd now in the producer’s chair, featuring a wealth of fast rising vocal
talent from the UK, simply re-interpreting [by way of musicality as well as
vocally] some of Lloyd’s hits chosen by the artists themselves
The roll call of artists featured in ‘The Salute Project’
are, Shade Aman, Grantie Asher, Chucky Bantan, Tony Corbin, Garnett Cross,
Harmonie Deja, , Steve ‘Stickz’ Heyliger, JayJayBorn2Sing, Donovan Kingjay,
Mandee, Rafeelya, Stacey Phipps, Kareem Shabazz, Ann Sianab, Simon and El’Tee.
Lloyd’s landmark 25th studio album release ‘Therapy’ sees
Lloyd in a deeply personal light as an album of tracks by way of closure from
his past trials of life as a timely gateway to his progression as an artist,
featuring collaborations with ever rising artist Ras Charmer, Harmonie Deja and
Rafeelya as well as co-production collaborations with Diane Black and Caroline
Williams [Real Talk Productions], Peter Hunnigale [Street Vibes Productions],
Stevie P Productions, Patrick Anthony [Homefront Productions] and Carlton
‘Bubblers’ Ogilvie [Nu-Edge Productions].
Sophia Brown
Sophia Brown interview on Colourful Radio 15-March-2020
Sophia Brown Going Global Sophia Brown’s first involvement in the entertainment industry was as a dance choreographer in 1986 for Dancehall Pioneers, this was what opened the door to the opportunity for her to showcase her musical talents with the Jamaican Tourist Board, on what was then known as the Appleton Estate Tour. This was the fortuity that gave life to Sophia’s dream of becoming an International & Inspirational acclaimed Reggae Artiste. In 1988, with a network of support she left her home of Parish St. Elizabeth to live closer to Kingston the music capitol of Jamaica in St. Catherine. The beautiful and talented Sophia, standing at a petite 5’3″ was extremely passionate about her music. She persevered and knew that “every journey begins with a first step” taking her 3 years, but she finally realized her passion and released her 1st recording, a single entitled “Jig Me” produced by Outta National in 1992, giving Sophia her very 1st local radio listenership. The song resonated well with reggae music fans, creating an opportunity for Sophia to perform alongside popular International Reggae & Hip-hop Artists Shabba Ranks, Lady Patra, Frankie Paul, Richie Stephens & Doug E. Fresh in BlaBla Town the same month.
In 1992, Sophia performed in the one and only major “Reggae Sun splash” in Montego Bay. This sensational performance was greatly received escalating her career, with a collaboration with the renowned Mad Professor from Europe. This collaboration set in motion this “Lovers Rock Artiste” putting her on a roll. Initially, she landed a recording contract with a Cayman Island Co. Strawberry Records, which was later sold to CMI in 1995. There she was to have had a 4 album deal until the contract was forfeited when CMI declared bankruptcy. This didn’t put the cabash on Sophia she remained focused & formed her own record company called “Music Mecka” with colleague dale Dunkley, both releasing a host of singles during that time, including “Baby Tonight” and “Give it up” which received favorable airplay.
In the following years, Sophia took to the road doing several tours both locally and abroad, including the Tri-state area of NY, Arizona and Virginia. She has performed with such greats as Snoop Dogg, Lil Kim & Ja Rule in 2002, in Norfolk, Virginia. In 2007, on her return to Jamaica, Sophia recorded a single entitled, “Love You Pure” a Reggae/R&B track inspired by a friend’s personal relationship experiences. It was a beautiful song that could have easily been a Valentine’s Day classic.” said a smiling Sophia Brown. A video for this single followed eventually finding its way on the local and E.Strip Video Charts peaking at #3. Sophia continued recording and releasing other hit singles under her “Music Mecka” label before recording her first album “The Spotlight” May 15, 2009, which had an official press launch and success began to knock on Sophia’s door. At the turn of the decade, s he attempted to attract a younger demographic by the release of her new single “Gimme That Good Love” and video.
Sophia was also nominated for the local EME Awards (Excellence in Music & Entertainment) Awards, “Best Female Vocalist” category, while “Gimme That Good Love,” single found its way at the top of the CVM hit list Video Charts.
In January 2010, Brown also met with kids from the Alman Town Primary School in Kingston where she was invited to give a motivational speech. She spoke about the importance of self-esteem. “Their selfesteem is a very big part of anything they do,” she remarked, “when they have that they can accomplish anything.” This was important to her, after having lived a difficult life herself.
2010 through 2011 saw a steady increase in both local and U.S. promotional activities for Sophia, with the release of her new singles “Let It Be Me” produced by Cash Flow Productions, “Gimme That Good Love” and “Lovers Rock” produced by her label “Music Mecka.” “Let It Be Me” hit N.Y. and South FL. Top 30 Reggae Single Charts, the debuting entry to the U.S. charts. She also made the Top 100 songs for 2010 in N.Y & South Fl. coming in at #100. Sophia charted in the Top 10 Urban, Chris Coxson Reggae Top 10 on NY Radio and Top 50 Pop for Satellite, College & Internet radio, marking her crossover from Reggae to Reggae-Pop. “Let It Be Me” hit a UK base chart as well.
Sophia continues to climb the international charts and is due to release her, most successful and acclaimed album “Catch Me If You Can” on Valentine’s Day 2012. “Catch Me If You Can,” is a masterful blend of Hip-Pop, Neo-Soul, and Hip-Reggae. Sophia has transcended beyond the borders of Jamaica to the International scene and is now crossing genres with her beautiful ballads such as “Love You Pure,” and “I’m the Rose.” Sophia has already planned a number of press launches to promote the release of “Catch Me If You Can” in NY, Jamaica, in Barbados at the Reggae Festival and in Los Angeles with many more venues in the works.
Additionally, Sophia is sporting her merchandise line marketing her clothing and accessory products through Café Press.com, come check it out! Sophia is a mother and Philanthropist at heart and plans on donating $1.00 from every album sold to help the under-privileged children in Jamaica.
May 2017 Sophia met with kids from Ascot Primary school in Portmore, St. Catherine where she represents as an artiste, she spoke with them on their career day and share with them her experience and steps to being an artiste.
2017 and Sophia Brown is ready again for the world with her newly release album “Change”, as the name stated , this is a turning point for the songstress towards a higher level in the music business “Change” is a compilation of great Reggae beats and Jamaican culture and can best be describe as smooth, soulful, sexy, and inviting. You are going to be drawn by songs like ; “Never Felt like this before” by Sophia Brown and Gregory Issac, “Love zone “ and “ Sexy Reggae !
Ms. Brown sees this opportunity of “Change” as the entry into her global movement. She is determined to make a difference in the world and in the lives of the children of Jamaica. Unfortunately, July 2017, Sophia met in an accident on her way to a show in Baltimore USA which puts her tour on pause, but that did not stop her from her passion she continues to record even though it was very hard for her but she persevere . 2019 she capped another award for best lovers rock reggae award from the Lady Flava network award . She also reinvented herself with new Singles alongside Ginjah “Changes” which reflects on the state of Jamaica.
2020 she is back!!!! with her EP and single“ Baby when you Left” which is now taking the airwaves by storm both locally and internationally.
So Catch Sophia if you can! Wherever she may be, in Europe, Asia, the United States, Caribbean, Australia or Africa!
The Real Thing
The Real Thing interview on Colourful Radio 08-March-2020
Best known for their legendary hits ‘You To Me Are Everything’, ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ and ‘Can You Feel the Force’, as well as their ground-breaking 1977 song, ‘Children of the Ghetto’, The Real Thing remain Britain’s most successful black group of all-time. Pioneers in soul, funk and dance music, the two original members – Chris Amoo and Dave Smith – are now celebrating over 45 years in the music industry. Still gigging across the world, the band’s success and longevity is unprecedented in British entertainment history.
Although The Real Thing were established in Toxteth, Liverpool, L8, in 1972, the band actually has its roots in Sixties’ vocal harmony group, The Chants; Britain’s first black acapella quintet, established by Chris’ older brother Eddy. A chance meeting with Paul McCartney at a Little Richard concert at the Tower Ballroom in Birkenhead, led to The Chants being invited to audition for The Beatles at Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club.
The Beatles were so knocked out by the group’s sound that they invited the boys to appear with them that same night, much to the reluctance of their manager, Brian Epstein, who didn’t want his group being backed by anybody. Thanks to John Lennon’s persistence, The Chants were a resounding success on stage, and for a brief time, Epstein represented them. The band was signed to Pye Records by Tony Hatch, but despite touring for 13 years The Chants were unable to achieve the same level of success as their ‘Merseybeat’ peers. Throughout his time performing with The Chants, Eddy honed his burgeoning songwriting skills, which were to stand him in good stead for his next musical collaboration.
Whilst Eddy was busy with The Chants, his younger brother Chris had been watching intently. Inspired by his elder sibling, Chris formed his own vocal group, extravagantly-called The Sophisticated Soul Brothers. The band consisted of Chris and his friends Dave Smith, Ray Lake and Kenny Davis (and later joined by Edward Ankrah, younger brother of Joe Ankrah, from The Chants). The S.S.B. began to pick up gigs and were soon brought to the attention of legendary A&R man Tony Hall, who drove up to Liverpool from London to see them perform. He signed them immediately, but decided they needed to change their name. Sitting in his car one day at traffic lights at Piccadilly Circus, Tony looked up the famous Coca-Cola advertising slogan blinking above him and made his mind up immediately. In January 1972, The Real Thing were born.
Within days, the band was appearing on long-running ITV talent show ‘Opportunity Knocks’, presented by Hughie Green. The guys performed a cover version of ‘Grazin’ the Grass’, and easily won the show, getting the highest score for their episode. The band were the very first all-black group to appear on a TV talent show, but sadly, that pioneering TV performance no longer exists in the archives, having been wiped in the 1980s.
Tony Hall guided his new band through the often-treacherous labyrinth of the music business, acting as their mentor and never once losing faith in the foursome. Just three months after their ‘Opportunity Knocks’ appearance, The Real Thing released their debut single, ‘Vicious Circle’, written by Eddy. Tony was handed a cassette of tunes Eddy had composed, whilst in The Chants, and was so impressed with his songwriting skills that he requested even more original material. Released on EMI records in April 1972, ‘Vicious Circle’ was a hard-hitting ‘conscience’ song, in the mode of The Temptations’ ‘Cloud Nine’. Although it didn’t chart, the song gained plenty of airplay and positive reviews from the predominantly white music press.
Eddy became a regular at The Real Thing’s recording sessions, often contributing instrumentation and extra vocals. The band’s second single, ‘Plastic Man’, was released in January 1973; just weeks after the group had represented the UK at the lavish ‘Gala de l’Unicef’, held in Paris. The concert was later broadcast in 14 countries around the world. ‘Plastic Man’ earned the group their first appearance on BBC TV’s ‘Top of the Pops’, but it was spoiled somewhat when DJ Jimmy Savile erroneously announced the group as “… the Plastic Men singing their new single, The Real Thing!”
Eddy and Chris Amoo had now formed an unbeatable songwriting partnership and manager Tony Hall realised success ultimately lay with the band being able to come up with their own distinctive sound. Other single releases came in quick succession, including ‘Listen Joe McGintoo’, ‘Check It Out’, ‘Daddy Dear’, and ‘Love Is A Playground’. Kenny Davis exited the band in 1974, and for a while The Real Thing continued as a trio, performing with a formidable group of musicians including Vic Lynton (guitar), Nigel Martinez (drums), Pete Nelson (keyboards), Earl Lee Robinson (bass) and twin brothers Jon and Dave Plotel (bass & guitars). At the time, The Real Thing wanted to establish themselves as a tight soul/funk ‘unit’, similar to Earth, Wind and Fire or Funkadelic.
After the demise of The Chants, Eddy Amoo joined The Real Thing full-time, making the band a quartet once more. The group signed with Pye and released a brilliant new single – ‘Stone Cold Love Affair’ – written by Ron Roker and Gerry Shury, which became a big club hit both in Europe and the US. Through producer Jeff Wayne the group was introduced to singer David Essex, who instantly loved the band’s look and sound, and invited them to contribute backing vocals to his 1975 album, ‘All the Fun of the Fair’. Essex also wrote and produced their next single, ‘Watch Out, Carolina’, released in September 1975. Jeff Wayne engaged Eddy, Chris, Dave and Ray to sing on the soundtrack of his forthcoming concept album, ‘War of the Worlds’. Chris took lead vocals on iconic track ‘Forever Autumn’, but before the project was released Wayne’s negotiations with Pye Records broke down, and the band’s soulful vocals were replaced by a variety of other singers, including Justin Heyward from The Moody Blues.
The Real Thing toured with David Essex extensively, including his American ‘Lamplight’ tour, and exposed the band to a more mainstream pop audience. Whilst in the US they even headlined at the famous ‘Bottom Line’ club in New York’s Greenwich Village, performing with three of the hottest black musicians in the city – John Lee, Reggie Lucas and Jerry Brown, who had all played with Miles Davis. In early-1976 the boys appeared on Essex’s latest single ‘City Lights’ and co-starred with him in the video, shot in London’s West End.
Naturally, The Real Thing were still looking for that elusive big hit single and then, quite suddenly, their fortunes changed forever. Hugely popular songwriters Ken Gold and Michael Denne contacted Tony Hall, requesting that they write a song for the band. The British duo had already enjoyed success across the Atlantic, with Aretha Franklin, Billy Ocean and Jackie Wilson, but were now looking for a home-grown hit. Gold & Denne’s publishers had, inexplicably, ignored their latest composition, and Tony Hall asked that The Real Thing be allowed to record it. The song was called ‘You To Me Are Everything’.
The record was laid-down at Camden’s famous Roundhouse Studios, with Lynton Naif doing the arrangements. Lynton had recently worked on Maxine Nightingale’s global chart-topper ‘Right Back Where We Started From’ and was highly sought-after. Everybody knew immediately that ‘You To Me Are Everything’ had ‘hit’ stamped all over it. Released on 14 May 1976, the song was picked up immediately by BBC Radio One and gradually crept up the charts during that scorching, record-breaking summer, selling some 30,000 copies per day.
The band performed the song five times on ‘Top of the Pops’ in 1976 and it eventually knocked The Wurzels’ ‘Combine Harvester’ off the #1 spot. It remained at the summit for three solid weeks and was the first number one hit for an all-black UK group. ‘You To Me Are Everything’ has subsequently been recognised as the 69th most played record of all-time in Great Britain, and is listed by the Guinness Book of Hit Singles as one of the top 100 songs of the millennium.
The follow-up song, again written by Gold and Denne, was nearly as successful. ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ was released on 27 August 1976 and reached number two in the UK charts, remaining in the top forty for 10 continuous weeks. On the strength of their second big hit single, the band released their self-titled debut album in November 1976, produced by Jerome Rimson, later to be a member of short-lived US band Atomic Man.
Aside from the two Gold/Denne hits the remainder of the album was solely filled with original Amoo Brothers compositions – a huge gamble, but one the band felt they needed to take if they were going to be recognised as a serious group. A 19-date tour around the UK promoted the album, culminating in a ‘homecoming’ gig at the Grafton Rooms in Liverpool.
The band’s next single – ‘You’ll Never Know What You’re Missing’ – comfortably sailed into the top 20 in January 1977, and gave Eddy and Chris their first bona fide hit as songwriters. The Real Thing capped a hugely successful 12 months by winning the ‘Best New Group’ gong at the ‘Daily Mirror Awards’, held at Bingley Hall, Birmingham. The ceremony was headlined by Paul McCartney, who Eddy hadn’t seen for well over a decade.
June 1977 brought a brand new song, the beautiful ‘Love’s Such A Wonderful Thing’. Despite only reaching #33 in the UK, the single shifted some 90,000 copies, and 25 years later Eddy and Chris’s faith in the song was justified when it was first sampled by French DJ duo Daft Punk for a white-label bootleg, and then two years later by The Freeloaders for their single ‘So Much Love to Give’. The dance track became a smash with clubbers in Ibiza, and across Europe, eventually reaching #9 in the UK charts.
‘Love’s Such a Wonderful Thing’ was intended as the first cut from the band’s sophisticated second album, ‘4 from 8′ (shorthand for ‘four lads from Liverpool 8’). The collection of 10 self-penned songs was indeed ambitious, with the lyrics touching on many social issues facing the working class black community at that time.
Pye Records threw all their weight behind an extensive marketing campaign to promote the LP. “To Get Close to The Real Thing, Get 4 from 8” shouted the advertising posters, but The Real Thing’s ambitious change from pure pop to proper politics was not always to a mainstream audience’s taste. Frustratingly, the addictive driving percussion of next single ‘Lightning Strikes Again’ didn’t make it a hit, despite massive airplay. It also appeared on the soundtrack to Britain’s very first all-black movie, ‘Black Joy’ (1977), in which the band also had a cameo appearance, singing at Count Suckle’s celebrated Q Club in Paddington.
The real strength of ‘4 from 8′, however wasn’t the more commercial-sounding tracks, it was the awe-inspiring ‘Liverpool 8 Medley’ – a tryptic of stunning, melodic songs, speaking directly from the streets of Toxteth. The trio of ‘Liverpool 8’, ‘Children of the Ghetto’ and ‘Stanhope Street’ were light years ahead of their time, and totally unique in British music, being the first home-grown soul music to properly address the experience of black people in the UK.
Music magazine, ‘Black Echoes’ reviewed the album in July 1977 and heaped praise on the songs. ‘The band continually delights,’ they wrote, ‘and the singing on the Liverpool 8 Medley is superb…’ Ironically, ‘Children of the Ghetto’, although never promoted to single status, has enjoyed the greatest longevity of any Amoo composition. It was first covered by Phillip Bailey (from Earth, Wind and Fire) on his Phil Collins-produced ‘Chinese Wall’ album (1984), as well as by Courtney Pine (1986) and Paul Hardcastle (2006). Additionally, since 2002, the song has appeared regularly on the set-list for Mary J Blige’s live concerts, and features on her 2004 collection, ‘Live in Los Angeles’ (2004)
The group reverted to a poppier sound for their January 1978 mid-tempo single, ‘Whenever You Want My Love’, composed by old favourites Ken Gold and Michael Denne, and returned them to the UK top 20, and two appearances on BBC1’s ‘Top of the Pops’. The single acted as a taster for the band’s third album, ‘Step Into Our World’, produced by Ken Gold, with superb brass arrangement by Lynton Naif. The Amoo Brothers regard one of the album’s stand-out tracks, the super-smooth ‘Won’t You Step Into My World’, as one of their finest ever songs. The album begat another amazing single, ‘Rainin’ Through My Sunshine’ in August 1978, which sold 80,000 copies in its first week, and features one of Chris’s strongest-ever lead vocal performances.
The band’s other hit single of 1978 was ‘Let’s Go Disco’, written and produced by prolific Indian musician Biddu Appaiah for the soundtrack of massively-successful ‘X’-rated movie ‘The Stud’, starring Joan Collins. The band also made an energetic appearance in the movie performing the track.
A few months later, in January 1979, came ‘Can You Feel the Force’, penned by the Amoo Brothers, and the song that propelled them back into the top 5 all across Europe. The band considered this to be one of the greatest moments of their career, and a song which they are still immensely proud of. By the end of the decade, The Real Thing had established themselves as Britain’s best-selling black band of all-time.
A string of other singles followed, including ‘Boogie Down (Get Funky Now)’, ‘Give Me Your Love’ and ‘Saint or Sinner’, all recorded for the band’s fourth album ‘Saints or Sinners’, released in January 1980, and produced by Frenchman Jean-Phillipe Illiesco (who had produced the huge Euro band Space). Sadly the collaboration was not to be a happy one. After moving from Pye Records to the Calibre label, The Real Thing released one of the best dance tracks of their entire career, the Michael Jackson-influenced ‘She’s a Groovy Freak’, produced in America by James Mtume & Reggie Lucas. The song packed dancefloors across the UK.
The 1980s were a time of mixed fortunes for the band. The group returned to working with David Essex, performing backing for his 1982 hit ‘Me and My Girl (Nightclubbing)’ and accompanying him on his controversial 1983 tour of South Africa, which, in the era of apartheid, they now consider one of the very few regrets of their entire career.
The Real Thing were saved in February 1986 when ‘You To Me Are Everything’ re-entered the European charts in a brand new remix by DJ Froggy & Simon Harris, eventually reaching #5 in the UK. With renewed interest in the band, they followed it with new hit remixes of both ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ and ‘Can Feel the Force’, plus a Best Of collection returning them to the charts, primetime TV and national radio for the first time in several years. The group’s rebirth prompted a new record deal with Zomba, which produced a brand new single ‘Straight to the Heart’, co-written by Michael Denne, and released in October 1986. Three further songs emerged from the band’s time with Zomba – the sublime ‘Hard Times’, a beautiful re-recording of ‘Children of the Ghetto’ and a cover version of ‘I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)’, all released throughout 1987.
Unfortunately, Ray Lake’s personal problems were starting to create difficulties, and he left The Real Thing in 1991. He died nine years later, aged just 48. For 26 years the group continued as a trio – Eddy, Chris and Dave – performing live across the world to their incredibly loyal fan-base, which sustained them musically and creatively. In 2005, the group were invited to appear on ITV’s ‘Hit Me Baby, One More Time’, where they performed an astonishing new version of Justin Timberlake’s ‘Cry Me a River’. The same year they recorded an updated arrangement of The Beatles’ ‘Eleanor Rigby’, for the critically acclaimed ‘Liverpool Number Ones’ album. It remains one of Sir Paul McCartney’s favourite ever cover versions of his songs.
Today, The Real Thing are still in enormous demand; their touring shows (complete with a live five-piece band) still entertain audiences almost every week of the year. In 2013 the group captured their live show on CD and DVD with ‘Live at the Liverpool Philharmonic’, which has been hugely acclaimed. As recently as October 2016 The Real Thing travelled to Australia for their first ever tour Down Under, wowing theatres with their legendary energetic shows. Sadly, in February 2018, Eddy Amoo passed away at the age of 73. His presence is hugely missed, but Chris and Dave continue to tour and their legacy as Britain’s premier black group endures. Their unique reputation for hits, musicality and showmanship carries on.
Tony Anthony
Tony Anthony interview on Colourful Radio 01-March-2020
Mark Bennett, aka “Tony Anthony” was born in St Catherine, Jamaica. He started pursuing singing at the age of 14, when his meeting with reggae crooner Glen Washington at a high school concert became the catalyst for his entry into music.
In his early years he honed his skills in Jamaica as a guitarist and vocalist in awardwinning reggae band Crucial Vibes; working alongside reggae icons such as Jimmy Cliff, Shaggy, Third World, Beres Hammond, Junior Reid, Jackie Mitoo, Foundations, Jack Ruby and Morgan Heritage to name a few.
In 1992 Tony Anthony migrated to Canada and formed the reggae outfit Tatix who went on to win numerous Canadian reggae music awards and gained a JUNO award nomination in 1996 for the album “Time Bomb”.
The following year he was recruited to be a member of soul group After Dark With whom he flexed his songwriting flair and his vocal magic to their first single “Took me for Granted” which became a hit on the Canadian and European dance scene. Tony wrote most of the songs on the group’s acclaimed debut album “After Dark.”
In 2007 Tony Anthony returned to his reggae roots recording two singles “Mark and the Beast” and “Yuh Nuh Simple” that immediately made an impact and won him world acclaim as both songs were heavily rotated and charted on reggae radio worldwide.
In 2010 Tony Anthony independently released his first solo album “Million Chance”. The album and 3 singles “Torn”, “Bad News” and “Love you so much” all topped reggae charts in Canada, Jamaica, Italy, Kenya, Gambia, Holland, New York, Florida, and The U.S Virgin Islands. The album debut on the Italian reggae album charts on February 15th 2011 and remained for one year.
“Million Chance” was nominated in the “Best Reggae Recording” category in the 2011 JUNO Awards and he also got a nomination at the 2011 EME Awards in Jamaica in the “Break through artist of the year” category. That same year at the 2011 Canadian Reggae Music Achievement Awards Tony Anthony won the awards for “Best male vocalist”, “Best songwriter”, “Best single” and “Best Reggae Album”.
In 2012 Tony Anthony and top reggae producer Kemar “Flava” McGregor produced and released his celebrated EP “Blessed Love” which includes hit singles “Living in Glory” and “Settle Down”. That same year he continued to bring his music to the world touring the U.S.A, Canada, the Caribbean and embarked on a European tour with stops at the Exit Festival in Serbia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Holland to rave reviews.
Tony Anthony sophomore album “Live To The Fullest” was released late 2014. He toured Europe for eight weeks performing in countries like Belgium, Holland, Germany, England and France to much acclaim.
The songs on this album continue to highlight and coagulate the essence of his lyrical and vocal potency and it’s a matter of time before he is rightly rated alongside the best in reggae music.
His latest album “Then Now & Forever” released in October 2019 has been gathering accolades near, far and wide. It won the Best Reggae Album category at the 2019 Bright Star Awards in the UK. It was also voted number 4 on the Top Ten Reggae Album for 2019 by the Foundation Radio Network in the USA. Two singles from the album has gained number one status in New York, Canada, and South Florida. “Then, Now & Forever” is currently on regular rotation on radio in Canada, the UK, USA , Jamaica and creating a huge buzz worldwide.
Omar
Omar interview on Colourful Radio 16-February-2020
The musical history of British soul pioneer Omar is renowned – the Lyefook family has musical talent embedded deep in their DNA, Omars’ father Byron worked as a studio musician and drummer with Bob Marley, Horace Andy and even The Rolling Stones. Omars’ younger brother, the Grammy winning producer, remixer and DJ professionally known as Scratch Professer has been making jaws drop since the age of 13, stunning the crowd at the 1988 DMC UK Finals with his turntable skills. Samia Lye-Fook (Omar’s sister) is a renowned vocalist in her own right, and a BRIT School alumna, then there’s their big brother….Omar. Born October 14, 1968, in London but raised in Canterbury, gifted, prolific and considered a musical prodigy; Omar learned his craft classically, playing the trumpet, piano, bass guitar and percussion. A former principal percussionist of the Kent Youth Orchestra and later a graduate of the Guildhall School Of Music, Omar has been making music for more than 32 years. Back in 1985 he released his first single ‘Mr Postman’ on his father Bryons’ Kongo label, which was also the original home for his first album, which contained the track that changed everything… ‘There’s Nothing Like This’. That album was re-issued by Gilles Peterson on his Talkin’ Loud imprint in 1991. This album established Omar as a stand out and unique artist, with ‘There’s Nothing Like This’ hitting the charts, so began a musical chain of events that has continued unabated up to the present day. The follow up ‘Music’, a vastly more orchestral and organic affair that highlighted Omar’s maturing as a composer, arranger and vocalist. Aside from the memorable title song, standout tracks included the still requested Get To Know You Better and the brilliant duet with his new Freestyle Records label mate Carleen Anderson, ‘Who Chooses The Seasons’. Soon after Omar signed to RCA, for whom he cut two further albums that notched up acres of critical acclaim, as well as introduced him to several of his musical heroes and heroines. On the1994’s ‘For Pleasure’ album, this includes some of Omar’s most prolific songs such as ‘Saturday’, ‘Outside’ and the Erykah Badu favourite ‘Little Boy’. He worked alongside the legendary former Motown producers Leon Ware and Lamont Dozier creating this masterpiece of an album. On ‘97’s ‘This Is Not A Love Song’, this was largely a collaboration with LA-based producer David Frank, he did a great cover of The Stranglers’ ‘Golden Brown’ and got to sing with one of his all-time favourite vocalists, Syreeta Wright on two songs, including the sumptuous slowie ‘Lullaby’. By 2000, Omar had moved on again, this time signing up with hip French imprint Naïve Records. The following year, now well established as the leading icon of the UK’s resurgent soul movement, Omar released his fifth album, ‘Best By Far’, a self-produced album, which he allowed his interest in cinematic soundtracks and jazz to shine through. Once again, the star names turned out on the album version of ‘Be Thankful’; a re-cut of the William DeVaughn seventies soul hit, featured Erykah Badu. A long time fan of Omar’s she came good on her word and jumped at the chance to feature on this track. Meanwhile MOBO winner Kele Le Roc supplied the strident lead on the anthemic groove ‘Come On’. 2006 saw the release of ‘Sing (If You Want It)’ which featured contributions from US rapper Common, Angie Stone and U.K. artists Rodney P and Estelle – but his crowning achievement was obtaining the Stevie Wonder duet ‘Feeling You’. It is, of course, a major coup for any UK recording artist to be able to call on the services of a musical legend like Stevie Wonder. The simple truth is that Stevie has been a fan of Omar’s music since he first heard T’here’s Nothing Like This’ back in 1992 – the same year he promised to write Omar “his first number one”. The 14-year wait turned out to be well worth it when, one day, Stevie called Omar out of the blue and told him he was in London and had just what he’d promised. A jam session later and the irrepressibly funky and melodic ‘Feeling You’, with Stevie on vocals and keyboards, was born. Several years passed whilst Omar wrote more original music for the follow up album, but he also moved into acting, developed and performed his one-man stage play, did voiceovers, collaborated with all manner of likeminded artists – and then in 2012 received notification that he was to be awarded an MBE for services to the British Music Industry – a rare accolade for an artist who was never overly focused on commercial chart success. In July 2012 – legendary soul boy, DJ and sports presenter Mark Webster contacted Freestyle A&R man Greg Boraman to tip him off that Omar had the new album completed and was looking for a new label. Boramans ‘speed of light’ email response could have won a Guinness Book Of Records title for the world’s fastest and most excitedly positive email in all history and so the discussions began…. Omar-MBE-733×10242013’s ‘The Man’ was heralded by all as an amazing return to form, and rated as Omars’ strongest album of his career – the title track, released as a single signposted all the archetypal components people have come to expect from an artist as original and unique as Omar. Rave reviews and a renewed interest and energy greeted this new music – and of course, suitably timed was Omars’ trip to Buckingham Palace to finally collect his MBE from Prince Charles, “Prince Charles, said “Do drop off a copy of your new album” … ‘Will do’ I said!. I am absolutely chuffed to bits. I want to dedicate it to all my die-hard fans who have always told me to keep on doing what I’m doing” And true to his word – Omar has kept doing just that. Aside from making weekly appearances on BBC Television in Javon Prince‘s comedy show, touring the world, recording and performing as one 5th of The British Collective and of course, supporting Stevie Wonder at 2016’s epic and unforgettable Hyde Park concert. 2017’s new release ‘Love In Beats’ is Omars’ 8th studio album and may just be the most diverse and varied to date; incorporating Caribbean rhythms, an undercurrent of funk, with touches of zouk, a jazzy waltz and spoken word. It also features collaborations with US soul legend Leon Ware, highly regarded Blue Note pianist Robert Glasper, rapper Ty, Guadeloupe born singer Jean-Michele Rotin, UK soultress Natasha Watts, The Floacist and Mayra Andrade, the Cape Verdean born singer who lives and records in Paris. Mainly recorded at his own Backyard Studio in South London, his unique voice, multi -instrumental and production skills, really come through on ‘Love In Beats’. With the help of his brother Scratch’s productions skills they have brought forth a new collection that may just be the most beautifully formed and career defining album of all. ‘This is an album of a labour of love between myself and my Grammy award winning brother The Scratch Professor. It is filled with powerful songs and mesmerising beats – that is Omar music and my brothers sound, it is truly ‘Love in Beats’ January 2020 and finally Omar gets a full career spanning ’best of’ album. Omar – The Anthology is a 33 track collection from right across the UK Don’s career – all the classics, plus deep cuts and archive finds! Features guest appearances from Stevie Wonder, Leon Ware, Erykah Badu, Robert Glasper and Carleen Anderson. When asked to reflect on his long, successful, critically acclaimed and deeply influential career that shows no signs of slowing up, Omar said “I feel blessed. I try to keep things moving and evolving, and when I finish an album, I always put my heart and soul into it. I’m looking at it from an outsider’s point of view, because I never really see myself making the music. It’s like I’m the vessel and somebody’s controlling what I do, I just happen to be the one that gets the praise for it”. That modest statement just re-enforces the fact that Omar is simply a one off, a genuinely unique artist. That is a bold claim, but his sound is so immediately identifiable, that you will know you are hearing an Omar track within seconds – and that is the stamp of true originality. This collection features many of his classic collaborations, from his evergreen worldwide anthem There’s Nothing Like This, It’s So, the dance floor destroying banger inspired by the amalgam of sounds Omar heard at The Notting Hill Carnival. Also included are lesser known, slept on tracks from across his long career – and the exclusive, previously unheard tracks Pass It On ft Terri Walker and Long Time Coming
Westerhall Rums UK
Westerhall Rums UK, Annabel Kingsman interview on Colourful Radio 12-Jan-2020
In the Southern Caribbean, on the South East corner of Grenada, lies the beautiful Westerhall Estate.
Since the early 1700s it has been producing sugar cane, coconuts, bananas and limes. Most importantly, over the centuries the family at the estate have developed a unique approach to the blending and bottling of rum.
Westerhall’s location on Grenada, the ‘Spice Isle’, means our rum is infused with a unique range of flavour notes. We’re now proud to say that we can promise quality and taste that can’t be found anywhere else.
But more importantly, we are right at the beating heart of Grenadian culture, and the result is a selection of rums with a range of individual tastes and aromas that scream sun, summer and carnival.
D.C.R.
D.C.R. interview on Colourful Radio 05-Jan-2020
D.C.R. is Dawn Claudette Rose. A Soulful RnB singer / songwriter of
Jamaican parentage born in Manchester but raise in London surrounded by music
in her home, which included reggae, soul, gospel and Motown. The likes of
Gladys Knight, Whitney Houston, Bob Marley and Janet Jackson, to name a few,
had a massive influence on her ever growing love for music and entertainment.
D.C.R. started writing poetry at age 9, which then developed into
songwriting. She would create songs and use other Artists instrumentals as a
backing track, from the flip side of an LP and record her vocals over the top,
using her dads Hi Fi system and plug in a microphone he had. She’d record all
her vocals onto cassette tape.
D.C.R. would do this regularly in her spare time, as if it were her own
recording studio. Then play the songs back to herself later. In her mid-teens
she was obsessed with Hip Hop music and Rap, as well as the culture. Her
favorite influences being NWA, Run DMC, MC Lyte, Nice & Smooth, Redman ,
Leaders of the new school and many, many more. She started to write her own rap
lyrics and incorporated them in her songs.
D.C.R. was also a natural born street dancer and performed regularly at
school and home for fun, but then decided to form a dance crew, with her friend,
making a good name for herself, performing as open acts for rappers such as
Naughty by Nature and Nice & Smooth. She was creative with her fashion
sense and had her own unique style, so would create a lot of her own outfits to
perform in.
At age 17 D.C.R. attended Westminster College to study Fashion and
Design, as her love of designing clothes and fashion styling grew. She thought
she would pursue that side of the fashion world, whilst dancing at live shows
in her spare time. D.C.R. completed her fashion design diploma and loved it,
but realized whilst there, her heart was still deeply in singing and
songwriting, so she went on to study Performing Arts. Whilst there she gained
more experience and confidence in singing and performing on stage, as well as
acting and contemporary dance. She excelled in Performing Arts, but left just
completing her first year, as she decided to travel to Canada to pursue her
dreams overseas.
Canada
Whilst in Canada Dawn lived with her Uncle for 2 years. She attended
Barbizon Academy, which was a model and talent school. This helped her get
various auditions for modeling and TV work, which was good exposure for her and
led onto her working with a music producer named Sam. They worked together in
the studio, writing and creating music with a hope to release. D.C.R performed
some of her own songs at various music events, but still wasn’t getting the
recognition she craved, so after some long thought, she decided to move back
home to London.
London
D.C.R. realized he only way to pursue her dreams, was to create them
herself by putting her own music out for the world to hear with her debut EP
‘D.C.R.’,
which is a collection of soulful, RnB tracks with cool swing beat vibes
and a hint of hip hop.
D.C.R. 2019
single releases: ‘Positive Vibes’ and ‘Old Skool’.
MS1 Project
MS1 Project interview on Colourful Radio 24-Nov-2019
The main nucleus of the group Is UK DJ – Mike “DJ Blue”
Harrison – Principal songwriter, Percussion, Producer and George “GEO” Harrison
– Bass, co-production and signwriting.
The two are brothers have been around music for a long time. Owing to the fact that their Father is a gospel singer and prominent music promoter in the 70’s bringing visiting acts over from the USA and the Caribbean.
Music was all around the household, anything from Soul, Motown, Reggae and even Popular music.
Mike was always creative writing poems ,rhymes and playing percussion. Then in turn crafting basic ideas into full songs.
GEO is also musically creative playing Bass, keyboards and guitar. He also does session work for other acts.
“Music plays a very important part in our lives” .
Donovan Kingjay
Donovan Kingjay interview on Colourful Radio 27-Oct-2019
Donovan Kingjay was born in South East London to Jamaican parents. Although his family was not particularly musical, it was obvious that he had a talent. At the age of 19, he made hisfirst public appearance at a local community show and hasn’t looked back since. The early sound system that Singjay (His original name) used was owned by Fred Locks and Frankie One Love of King Original Sound. It was Fred Locks who renamed him. Fred said “How did you get the name Singjay and you a straight singer?”, I replied, “It’s a nickname from a long time. Sing like a Jay Bird”. Fred say “From today de I, you get the crowning of Kingjay from now”. This was in 2005. His early recordings were under the name of Singjay.
Donovan eventually came to the attention of Sugar Minott. who referred to him as his godson, and who had become a huge influence on him. Donovan thought of him as a big brother. Only Jamaica releases so far was “Never Too late”, on his Youthman Promotion Label in the year 2000.
Donovan has released numerous singles with different producers over the years and has currently got 4 releases. “I wish” on Bandcamp, Double-A and AA Red Vinyl Release. “Black Liberation / Great Steve Biko”, “Each One Teach One”, all creating a storm at this time. The next single, “Never Giving Up”, is due to be released August 2019, and several singles are awaiting in the pipeline awaiting producers.
Donovan Kingjay has two albums under his belt, “Higher Meditation” and “Natural Living”, and his next album on the Black Legacy label is scheduled for release at the end of 2019.
Donovan is constantly on the road performing, especially in Europe, where he recently headlined March 2019 at The Grounds in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to a sell out crowd.
Donovan is gradually climbing the ladder of success and is going to be around for a very long time.
Victor Haynes
Victor Haynes interview on Colourful Radio 20-Oct-2019
Victor Haynes has created a reputation as one of the UK’s most reliably versatile soul and jazz singers. A popular blend of standards and original compositions for concert venues, private parties, restaurants, hotels, clubs and corporate events – whether on stage, in the spotlight, or in the background – entertaining audiences with upbeat dance sets or performing laid-back classics for background ambience.International appearances have stretched from Europe to New York, he has supported “A” list stars for their UK shows and his five well reviewed albums have climbed the soul sales charts.
Victor Haynes’ versatile body of work made him a ‘one-call’ when artists like Edwin Starr, The Drifters, Curtis Mayfield, The Temptations, The Real Thing and The Crusaders needed the perfect support act for their UK shows. His international reputation for urbane style has built over three decades of performing at premier concert venues like Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, clubs, hotels, restaurants, corporate events, private parties and residencies. His versatile professionalism switches comfortably from solo gigs to singing with sax player Dean Houston or his up-tempo Motown-influenced ‘Mainstreet’ band.
Victor is available as a soloist … or with northwest sax legend Dean Houston … or with his own up-tempo Motown-influenced band ‘Mainstreet’. And his bespoke selections of soul, jazz and American swing numbers can include touches of blues and reggae too. As up-tempo or relaxed as you need him to be. Victor Haynes is one of the most respected names in UK soul music. A smooth and sophisticated vocal style that merges soul and jazz classics with original compositions. Timeless … or modern. Slow, easy listening backgrounds of laid-back soul … or faster, up-tempo dance sets.
Since then Victor has polished his relaxed interpretation of classic American jazz, swing and sweet soul music from Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Nat King Cole and Duke Ellington through to Luther Vandross and George Benson. There’s likely to be some edgy blues too. Even touches of reggae. Victor’s albums have climbed the UK soul charts and his work, at home and abroad, has included appearances in New York, France and Italy. He’s rubbed shoulders with the Rothschild family, the Duchess of York, Nigella Lawson, Dannii Minogue, Mel B and sporting legends from Mike Tyson and Wayne Rooney to Chris Eubank and Frank Bruno.
Back in the day – when a professional singing career first
tempted him away from his own business designing and making jewellery – he
moved to London and worked with major league soul stars like Jaki Graham, David
Grant, Heatwave’s Derek Bramble and Rod Temperton. But, back in Manchester, it
was his songwriting and recording partnership with keyboard player Pete May
that began to attract attention, radio airplay, a recording deal and a series
of acclaimed albums. Victor Haynes is as comfortable on stage in the spotlight
as he is in the background. Usually solo. Sometimes with Dean Houston. And, yes
… he still sings out with ‘Mainstreet’.
Tey Yaniis
Tey Yaniis interview on Colourful Radio 13-Oct-2019
Born in Dallas, Texas Soul Jones Music Group CEO/Artist Tey Yaniis brings his old soul personality and smooth delivery blending genres such as Neo-Soul, chill out, house, funk and hip-hop to create an exhilarated experience to today’s new and old generation of music lovers.
Tey Yaniis love for music began at an early age playing a variety of musical instruments such as trumpet, violin, cello, and singing in theatre arts. Developing a love for performing and entertainment through music Tey Yaniis embarked on a journey to combine hip-hop and poetry with a live instrumentation soulful sound to create his award winning debut album “The Soul Jones Collection” with the debut single “My Coffee Brown” produced by Bink Wills featuring Chris Keys which reached #36 on top 100 top independent chart on digitalradiotracker.com and being the #1 played single on Santa Clara University college radio station. Tey Yaniis influences include John Coltrane, Art Blakey, Cab Calloway, Otis Redding, Jackie Wilson, A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, The Fugees, Digable Planets, Blackstar, and more. In addition to being a recording artist Tey Yaniis also is a songwriter in which he believes that tapping into a recording artist mind will have maximum results with bringing a masterpiece of a song. Being an experienced figure in the music industry behind the scenes as a tour organizer, hype man, DJ and more Tey looks to bring his soulful style to the forefront with the launch of his independent record label “Soul Jones Music Group” which Tey Yaniis and Co. will be releasing Tey’s follow up album as well as up and coming soul artist.
Tey Yaniis continues to make his mark in the music industry as a recording artist, songwriter and label head on his own terms. His brand will continue to bring not only soulful sounds but to uplift communities and inspire soulful artist to continue push out music that will help heal and bring light into the world. Tey truly acknowledges the support from his fans and family that keeps him making good music and pushing to greater boundaries. Peace, love unity and respect.
Adelaide Mackenzie
Adelaide Mackenzie interview on Colourful Radio 06-Oct-2019
July 2005 saw the launch of Adelaide Mackenzie’s first album “Daily Process” at The Jazz Cafe. Now after 12 years of musical development and personal growth. The much awaited 2nd album from Adelaide Mackenzie entitled “Simply Me” will be launched on 10th October 2019 at South London’s infamous Jazz Venue, The Hideaway, Streatham, London SW16 2BF.
British born Jamaican, Adelaide Mackenzie who was strongly influenced by reggae and soul, has grown and developed profoundly as an artist and in the last 12 years, has won awards and has been dubbed the Queen of open-mic with her live event “Blessed Souls UK”. With a following of over 2,500 fans of both her music and hosting she has an awesome album to launch that her audience will definitely Love. She has recently wowed an audience as the sole supporting act for American Neo-Soul singer “Goapele” at the Jazz café July 2019, showcasing exclusive tracks from her forth coming album.
This new album is an eclectic blend of soul, reggae and pop fused with Jazz and gospel influences. It also contains elements of spoken word which will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. It covers messages that many can relate to including Love and Relationships on the track “If You’re Looking (for Love)” and healing to overcoming life’s difficulties in the song “Let It Go”. She also has an amazing bonus track “Take Me To Your Dream”. This House track is already having the DJ’s talking and definitely has that element to keep you on the dance floor. No doubt it will be a HIT!
Gospel influences are found in her “Only God” track where she pens her personal journey and belief that “Only God” can heal her soul and in “Stand Up” which features Peter Francis & The Jabez Family choir. The song brings influences of Gospel with a 70’s feel and empowers people to ‘stand up’ for their rights. It also includes the ‘Brook Benton and Clyde Otis’ song “Endlessly” also covered by Randy Crawford. Adelaide recently released her version of ‘Endlessly’ as a single and the feedback from radio DJ’s has been amazing.
Tristan
Tristan interview on Colourful Radio 29-Sep-2019
Dutch five-piece Tristan’s music can be best described as feel-good vintage Acid Jazz, with the energy, vibe and sounds of today, performed by some of the best contemporary pop/jazz musicians from Europe.
Funky rhythm guitars, Hammond, Fender Rhodes and synths, and a rhythm section that has been performing together for decades playing solid grooves and tight, punchy arrangements that have since become their trademark. All this underpins singer Evelyn Kallansee’s stunningly beautiful vocals. It will take you back to that great warm sound of the 70’s, with a fresh breeze of influences from the present. While Tristan’s music may sound like bands such as Tower of Power, Snarky Puppy, or classic Acid Jazz acts such as Incognito and the Brand New Heavies – who all produce high energy grooves – what makes this group stand out from their contemporaries is the high quality of the compositions and arrangements.
Tristan’s debut release, ‘Full Power’ – which featured US soul singer Heston, UK saxophone maestro Nigel Hitchcock and legendary American trumpeter Randy Brecker – received rave reviews, while their highly acclaimed follow-up, ‘2nd Phase’, proved that this is a band with something to say, both albums going straight to No 1 in the UK soul charts.
The group continued to surprise again, in 2016 with ‘Lifestyle’ and 2017 ‘Live in Concert’. Those CD’s brought them in 2016/ 2017 all over the world: Japan, United Kingdom , Germany, Poland, Romania, Denmark, Luxembourg and France.
‘The Spice of Five’ is their fifth album, and was released worldwide in April 2019.
