INTERNATIONAL REGGAE DAY 2019

By Coral Consciouslee

10th July 2019

This year, International Reggae Day – hosted by Kwaku of British Black Music/Black Music Congress (BBM/BMC) in conjunction with Reggae Fraternity UK (RFUK), Campro Entertainment and various sponsors - was held over two days; I was fortunate to attend on June 30^th (day one) at Goldsmiths University in New Cross.

Try to imagine the scene walking up to the building from New Cross Gate Station: a beautiful sunny day, a nice expanse of green grass before one climbed the stairs to the building itself. The pulsating bass and drums of reggae music provided more than enough direction if anyone had any difficulty finding the venue.

Once inside, it was notable to see that all those who had stands were already set up – the event had already started.  Amongst those who had stands was of course Reggae Fraternity UK, Shining Stars, UK Pressure Records, TLC Global Media, Trojan Records, Musicians' Union and The Voice/Gleaner Newspaper to name but a few. I arrived just in time for the screening of the film “Rude Boy: The Story of Trojan Records. I found the film very informative, thought-provoking; Trojan Records’ place in reggae history – very moving.

Allison Mason - Shining Stars

Lady TLC - TLC Global Media

Garfield - The Voice/Gleaner Newspaper

Coming from the screening (reggae related videos were being shown after the film), I felt strangely invigorated! Perhaps it was because what was advertised was actually taking place and on time.  I could clearly see that this event was a step-up from last year.  Now do not get me wrong: International Reggae 2018 was decent, but here in 2019 it was clear that steps were taken to make this year even more memorable. The backdrop of outstanding reggae music provided by Chaaawaaa Radio, added to a cheerful and active networking atmosphere.

Chaaawaaa kept the reggae music flowing!

Side note: It felt good that when talking to John Logan from PRS, he observed that Chaaawaaa Radio was a licensed radio station.  How great was that?  Similarly, I was fortunate to have an in-depth conversation with Natalie Witts-Kilshaw from Musicians' Union, regarding the many benefits available to artists and musicians who become members.

Being on volunteer duty meant I was not able to attend “Reggae from Windrush To The Academy” featuring spoken word artist Victor Richards and also “Reggae & Mental Health & Well Being” segments, but the feedback of both was that it was inspirational and educational respectively; personally, I would love to see a day dedicated to exploring mental health in more detail.

An added treat was the fantastic rendition of songs from Lady Lex and Joanne Caesar aka Josey Roots, with an impromptu contribution from various artists who attended. Donovan Kingjay and Antony Richards received their International Reggae Day, People’s Choice Awards. Hosted by Audrey Scott of RFUK and Melissa Sinclaire a.k.a. DJ Cameo, it was a nice pick me up after dinner! The weather being so nice, one could take a breather outside, go into the hall for relevant panel discussions, or check out the stands whilst listening to some exceptional reggae.

Joanne Caesar aka Josey Roots

Lady Lex

We then had a Veterans Talk/Q&A Session led by Singer-songwriter/Producer Anthony Brightly of Black Slate and Dennis Rowe - Saxon sound system co-owner in discussion with Kwaku BBM.  It was interesting to see the different work ethic and proactivity that each used to achieve their particular success.  This was swiftly followed by “Talking Copyright, Intellectual Property and Protecting Reggae” – definitely must for those in the music industry!

Kwaku alongside Anthony Brightly from Black Slate & Dennis Rowe from Saxone

The day was rounded off nicely with “Reggae’s Influence on British R&B/Soul Q & A” with soul groups Cool Notes and Simplicity on the panel.

Simplicity and Cool Notes lead the panel discussion

I am sure that Kwaku BBM,  RFUK and Campro will have reviewed both days and already cited areas for improvement; nevertheless, I was impressed.  Through obvious planning and consistency, the IRD Team pulled off a remarkable and enjoyable day.  Being able to cope with anything that may not go according to plan, with calmness and a cool head was key.  The atmosphere created and how we all functioned together, was gratifying.

Kwaku - BBM/BMC

Melissa Sinclaire - Campro Entertainnment
with Victor Richards - Spoken Word Artist

Colin - RFUK with Natalie Witts-Kilshaw
 - Musician's Union

 From networking and speaking in-depth to the representatives on the stands and those attending, I wished more from the industry had attended. I fear that there may be benefits  that we are not aware of, which events like International Reggae Day can highlight; though, we cannot avail ourselves of these benefits if we are not present. 

Roll on next year!

JO CAESAR AT THE RITZY

by Coral Consciouslee

8th May 2018

My first time seeing Jo Caesar and hearing her sing, was at the Reggae Star Factor Competition held at the Shaw Theatre.  I remember feeling goose-bumps when I heard her vocal range and thinking how privileged I was to hear such a voice.  The following week I met her before the show started and predicted that she would win the competition.

Jo Caesar in action

Jo Caesar did go on to win Reggae Star Factor 2015 and the reggae community was abuzz with the possibilities that could arise.  However, Jo’s path to success did not run as smoothly as planned and in 2016 she decided to take a hiatus away from music.

Reggae Star Factor Award 2015

Fast forward to 2018 and Jo has returned stronger and bolder than ever! There was a distinct polished appearance together with professionalism of a high standard to her social media presence.  With new management and exciting plans in the works, Jo’s first stop was to have her own show at the Ritzy in Brixton.  Every first Sunday of the month, promoter Geoff Parker runs an event called ‘Catch A Fire’ featuring various reggae artists and bands.  It is a small intimate place, very well placed in location and with an eclectic audience.  A perfect venue for an artist to feature their talent and works I thought.

The Powers Band

Jo opened the show with her now famous song “Coming On Strong”.  If she had any nerves she hid it well.  Her range was strong as she confidently belted out classic after classic of her favourite songs, putting her own style and a slight twist into some.  The Powers Band seemed well rehearsed and tight, complimenting Jo without being overpowering.  The balance was just right.   Jo had Temi Brown as her backing singer, a very strong vocalist whose style was pleasurable and attractive to the listener.

The audience engaged with Jo from the beginning; dancing, clapping, cheering and singing along.  We were treated to some reggae classics such as “How Could I Leave?” and “The First Cut Is The Deepest”.  There was also a moving rendition of “Natural High” in tribute to the late Claudia Fontaine.  The second half saw a switch to soul. Jo effortlessly thrilled us with Jill Scott’s “He Loves Me”and Erykah Badu’s “Tyrone”. It was an electrifying evening.

Jo Caesar is a multi-genre artist.  Instead of using the term “Rising Star” I would say Jo is already a star…she is just shining brighter.


Photos courtesy of Courtney Anglin


Watch out for the release of Jo Caesar's new single "Used To Be Your House" end of June 2018!!

Management: Jatmuzicuk@gmail.com
Facebook: @Jocaesarofficial
Instagram: @Jocaesarsings
Twitter: @Jocaesarsings
Youtube: @Jocaesarsings

RFUK Tribute to : Tony "Reggae Time" Williams

by Coral Consciouslee
2nd May 2018

I am a Johnny-come-lately, to the Reggae circuit. However even years ago, I knew of Tony Williams and his championing of reggae in the UK.

I did meet and greet him a few times; even though I didn't know him on a personal level, I can take comfort in knowing I was involved in honouring him and awarding him for his service to the music industry. How apt that this was done at the Reggae Fraternity Legacy Show. Indeed, what a Legacy this man has left behind:

The Award for Outstanding Contribution to Reggae Music

A disc jockey of distinction on BBC Radio London – playing music for the artist and listener, not for his own opinion.  Memories of his radio show which aired on a Sunday between 1 and 3pm have been regaled time and again, long before his passing.

DJ Pd Coolie presents the award...

Tony Williams giving his speech

Founder of the British Reggae Industry Awards in 1982, when it seemed like reggae artists in the UK did not receive their deserved recognition, Tony Williams ensured that they went home with an award to treasure.

An approachable and supportive individual who was a friend of the artist, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of Lover’s Rock in the UK.

Even as I type the tributes are pouring in.  It is the end of an era for sure, but isn’t it wonderful and comforting that Mr Williams has his place in reggae history? That his passion and effort bore fruit, that will last through time itself? He touched and changed lives.

As I reflect, a few facts are now very clear:

• Give people flowers, praise, accolades and acknowledgement while they are alive.
• Live your best life, try to have a clean heart and pure motives.
• Do NOT waste time on small petty matters. Time is the one thing you cannot get back.

Those in my age group know that WE are the big people now! Do what you are called to do and make your time on earth count!

A true Legend

Tony Williams' tribute to RFUK


R.I.P. Tony Williams

Photography by Courtney Anglin.

https://www.caribdirect.com/british-reggae-industry-awards-got-off-to-a-glowing-start/ 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55jRC3Th6fE

  

BRITAIN'S GOT REGGAE - 3RD EDITION

by Coral Consciouslee

28th March 2018

Britain's Got Reggae is in its third year!

March 29^th to 27^th July 2018 will see the heats for Britain’s Got Reggae – 3^rd Edition!

Spearheaded and organised by one of the hardest working individuals in the music business, Cyrlene Braithwaite, we have seen BGR grow phenomenally from its conception to present day.

Cyrlene Braithwaite

The winner will receive a magnificent prize indeed:

Performing at The One Love Festival!

Recording Project with Stingray Records!

Performing at Rototom Sunsplash Spain!

One year’s support in booking and promotions by the BGR team!

Heat 1 will begin at The Hootananny, Brixton tomorrow, 29^th March 2018 – the anticipation is building, come and support!!

#PromotingUKReggaeExcellence

LEGENDS OF LEGENDS 2018

By Coral Consciouslee

16th March 2018

Saturday 10^th March 2018, I was privileged to attend the 12^th year of the Annual UK Legends of Legends hosted my Gatecrash Promotions.

This was my third time, so I was familiar with what the evening would entail. Even though I attended this time as a representative of Reggae Fraternity UK, I asked myself the question: Why do the same people support and attend this event each year? Indeed, Dennis Bovell stated the next morning, that it doesn’t matter where he is in the world, he will make it his duty to be a participant in Legends of Legends.

12 Years and STILL going strong!

 I wondered what was the appeal? Having been unable to make it last year, I was curious to see how the event would be perceived at Parklands Banqueting Suite, instead of The Drum as in previous years.  As someone who has been involved in a lot of events over the years, I love when an event is organised and details attended to.  Therefore, it was a pleasure to see that the event started on time with a full house no less! Sharon “Shazzy” Bhola-Harris and Trevor “Rankin Gatecrash” McIntosh took their place as comperes on the stage and the show was underway.  Artist after artist came on and sang the familiar songs that we knew so well, but we danced and cheered as if hearing the song for the first time.

The dynamic duo 

Organised, attentive and smiling!

Where hospitality was concerned, nothing was omitted or overlooked.  I was allowed backstage and had the opportunity to mingle with the artists and catch up on musical news.  As per usual, refreshments were on hand for the artists who had their own special room. That’s when I finally realised what the appeal was.  This wasn’t just an event, this was a community, a family coming together in appreciation of the artists who performed and also showing their love and support for the hosts.  I use the word ‘family’ deliberately because families form a strong bond that is cultivated over years of interaction and love.  The crowd roared with laughter at Shazzy’s antics and became emotional when Gatecrash was surprised on stage by an appearance from his sister from Canada. Those who had recent birthdays were asked to come on stage and were given acknowledgement and a present.  Likewise mothers were highlighted and applauded, in recognition of Mother's Day.

It’s those little attentions to detail that I suspect is the key to the success of Legends of Legends.

Whistles blew and cheers went on for hours! Even backstage we danced and congratulated artists as they came off the stage.  In addition to London, people attended from all major cities in the UK.  I am not writing this in amazement, I am writing this because it is the norm. In the current economic climate Legends of Legends have managed to attract a full house every year, early-bird tickets being sold out almost as soon as they are issued.  Shazzy and Trevor have developed a tried and tested marketing technique that has stood the test of time like a well-oiled machine.  We applaud them and many would do well to follow their example of diligence, determination, consistency and organisation.

Another fantastic show!!

It is because of this dedication that UK Reggae will continue to be heard and treasured for years to come.  Roll on year 13!!

Pictures provided courtesy of Jackie Higgins - with thanks!

RFUK LEGACY SHOW - NOVEMBER 2017

By Coral Consciouslee

On Sunday 26th November the day of the Legacy show had finally arrived after months of planning and promotion.

Before the doors opened at 6pm, a small queue of people eagerly awaited entry to the Legacy show. RFUK volunteers were in place and ready to greet and check in attendees as they arrived. It was great to see a steady stream of people arriving early to see the start of the show; what was also impressive was the effort people made to look good for the evening.
Everyone seemed to be genuinely excited to be there. The ground floor was set out cabaret style with tables and chairs; the tables had a lovely centre piece decoration of white bottles illuminated by some small lights. The table centrepieces were the brainchild of T’Nia Miller who recruited Michaela Styles to help her. The two foraged things from nature, which they begged, borrowed and stole! With sheer ingenuity and a lot of elbow grease they were able to present something magical.

The comperes of the evening Donna Spence and Curtis Walker, kept the audience alight with laughter and anticipation; this added to the ambience of the venue which was enthralling.

What followed was a captivating evening, with an array of talent who entertained the audience from start to finish. Clapham Grand was on fire with fine reggae music! Each artist sang as if they were appearing at Wembley Arena!  We are sure there wouldn't have been a difference! We must give mention also to Nairobi Thompson, spoken word extra-ordinaire, adding a certain lyrical content to the proceedings. The band – headed by Ivan Christie as MD – was tight and professional, having learned 30 songs in total. True Identity, who are singers in their own right, also learnt the backing vocals for all those songs, giving the artists an extra lift, with a bright and melodic sound. Even now a week later, they are being praised for their harmonies, stamina and professionalism!

One of the highlights of the show was seeing our young adults getting involved and performing Live Reggae. Legacy in truth! However, we cannot write without mentioning the likes of Kofi, Sylvia Tella and Dennis Bovell, who showed why they will always be true legends in every sense of the word.

In keeping with the Legacy theme, we felt it only fitting for Cassandra London (a very current and rising reggae star) to present an award to Janet Kay in celebration of her 40 years in music and for PD Coolie (a DJ who strongly supports UK Reggae – Venture fm) to present to Tony Williams, for his contribution to music.

 
The feedback has been phenomenal and the aim is to have this as an annual event.

These types of events are never without its glitches but we have learnt tremendously about what we will and will not do for the next time around. There are several Reggae shows in London, but the RFUK Legacy show presented something a little different.


Thank you to all that attended, the audience, the band, the backing vocalists, the artists, the volunteers and security.

#BRITISH LEGACY
#Promoting UK Reggae Excellence

Photographs courtesy of Courtney Anglin
Video recording : Olu Kuforiji - Clearview Presentations

From Lovers Rock, To The Rock – Shezekiel’s Journey

By Coral Consciouslee

Songs and lyrics Shezekiel style!

The album launch of Pauline Caitlin-Reid a.k.a Shezekiel was as unique as the artist herself.  Held at the Chalk Hills Academy, Luton, we were treated not only to a trip down memory lane, but taken through song down the path to how Shezekiel came to her moment of self-realisation.

For those from the Lover’s Rock era, Shezekiel stepped back in time to when Brown Sugar sang songs like “I’m In Love With A Dreadlocks” and “Black Pride”; I saw many people swaying in their seats and holding their hands up in the air in appreciation.  I thought of the legacy that Shezekiel had createdthat she could have her daughter, niece and best friend as backing vocalists.  It was also plain to see that her ability, gift and talent had been passed down.

On the screen behind the performance were newspaper clippings, pictures and writings from that era too.  An informative touch I thought.

Interspersed between the songs were snippets of an “interview” with Shezekiel conducted by Ray Patrick and Louise Clarke.  The audience learned about the history of Pauline/Shezekiel, the artistes that influenced her music and how she came to be producing the music that culminated in her album.

Being interviewed by Ray Patrick

Shezekiel also shared her personal testimony of revelation and self-discovery with the audience; it was touching and enlightening. 

After the interval, Lover’s Rock was replaced with Reggae, carrying a specific God-given message.  The lyrics revealed Shezekiel’s own thoughts and conviction of her belief in God. The performance was backed by a live band of young, but very talented musicians called the Gem Stones.  Definitely a pleasure seeing young people playing and appreciating reggae!  The music itself had a contemporary feel with tones of the east.  Some of the songs also had a negro-spiritual feel to it with the harmonies sung to a high standard. I must admit, I sat in anticipation that Shezekiel would sing my favourite “Beams From Heaven” and jumped up ready to dance when she started the song!

Eastern influences!

My only disappointment was that there wasn’t enough time to hear more of her songs. With songs  entitled “Catch The Boat” and “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth”, you will understand why this was not just an evening out, but an education.

An enjoyable evening with the recommendation that one goes out and purchases the CD as soon as possible.  Well done to Shezekiel, Alan Charles who co-produced the event, alongside Kelvin Jarrett the musical director.  Look out for news of the tour!!

#PromotingUKReggaeExcellence

#PromotingUKReggaeMusic

RFUK ATTENDS YOLANDA BROWN'S LISTENING PARTY!

By Audrey Scott

15th July 2017

 On 13th June 2017, RFUK was invited to YolanDa Brown's listening party.  We were represented by our very own Audrey Scott who gladly gave us her review of the evening.  Have a read below!

It's MY Party! YolanDa Brown with Audrey Scott at the listening party.

YolanDa Brown chose Melomania Cambridge Audio - which is an audio testing office – as the venue for her listening party.  A modern looking place, intimate, with cushions laid out on benches. People chatted before the event started. A very friendly atmosphere. Like a front room filled with friends.

We were all greeted warmly by YolanDa, who made us all feel very welcome and at home. There were 2 sofas placed on the stage.

We were then treated to a few tracks where she explained to the audience the inspiration behind each one and the people that contributed on the tracks.  A few of the guest artists who were featured on her album were in the audience.  Singer Raheem Devaughn rang from USA and her young daughter is also included on one of her tracks.

Yolanda Brown talks about her album on stage.

YolanDa explained what she wanted and felt for each track. So some tracks were played softly, depicting love for example.  The heavy Reggae tracks were greeted with pull ups and YolanDa getting up and dancing, encouraging us to get up with her. I don’t think she could have done anything better.

Unfortunately Floetry couldn’t attend, but she sang on Love & War – beautifully sung (it had quite an impact on me) and you just know the audience felt that song by the response.

As we listened to her songs, we were encouraged to dance if we wanted to. This is a girl that loves her Reggae and is very down to earth. Her tracks consisted of Reggae, Jazz, RnB and Nyabinghi. Great fusions of music. (Click on the link below and listen to ‘Million Billion Love’

https://youtu.be/K7FkRE0qHlQ  Single ‘Million Billion Love’ is no.1 in the Jazz charts. Smooth Reggae/Jazz feel.)

Her music was entitled ""Posh Reggae, which is also happens to be the name of her tour.

The audience proved very receptive to the songs played.  At the end, we were invited to check out her merchandise, which were her album, Posh Reggae logo T-Shirts and bags.

Singer Donna Michael shows off some of the merchandise

RFUK felt honoured to have been invited and we look forward to hearing her songs.  I was particularly impressed with the venue and the way she came around to all her guests and greeted us with big hugs. She also took photos with those that asked.

We wish her all the best for the Album.

Promoting UK Reggae Excellence

http://www.yolandabrown.co.uk/

Love Politics War – Yolanda Brown

Posh Reggae

REGGAE FRATERNITY UK LAUNCH PARTY

by Coral Consciouslee
29th October 2016


Reggae

noun

1.

a style of Jamaican popular music blending blues,calypso, and rock-'n'-roll, characterized by astrong syncopated rhythm and lyrics of socialprotest.

This is truly one of those times when writing about something that was so fantastic, makes one wish that there were more words in the English language.  I began this blog by looking up the definition of reggae and saw how limited the English language was trying to describe it.  That’s how I feel right now.

Last night I was involved in and attended the Reggae Fraternity UK Launch Party.  What had begun with a small group of about 20 people in April 2015 had evolved into an eagerly anticipated event, which – truth be told – we had been planning probably from that very first meeting. Although I had certain skills that could be beneficial as the RFUK secretary, I can truly say it is only now that I understand what we are able to offer as an organisation. I am privileged to be working with a team of very talented individuals, who have so many qualities in addition to being outstanding musicians.  Together their vision has inspired and helped me to understand Reggae music on a level I never thought possible.

On the practical and tangible side, we had a beautiful venue – Hackney Showrooms and the undying help of Nina Love.  Whatever we asked of Nina, she was willing to help, going over and beyond what was necessary.  Her organisational skills and tenacity made our preparation for the event a smooth process indeed. 

Like most promoters, we advertised like crazy.  We knew this was not a dance or a similar event.  This was not just about selling tickets, or getting “bums on seats”.  This was an event aimed specifically at the music industry – we were putting out a call for interested parties to come together and ultimately help each other. I am shaking my head at the many meetings, emails, whatsapp messages and telephone calls we must have made.  How we kept on top of it all I do not know!  However Friday night made all the effort worth it. 

The perfect scenario for any event is when people arrive on time.  When people arrive early then one knows they are very interested.  Our drinks reception proved very popular and gave a perfect opportunity for some early networking to commence.  To see people gathered early on a Friday evening for a seminar about reggae music, was a beautiful sight.  Even better having to produce more chairs for those who were standing – and the evening had just begun! We had a strong panel: Kevin Bennet – Emotional and Mental Strategist, ,Gary Digitech – Music Producer and John Downie of UK Unsigned.  Chaired by RFUK’s very own Leroy Wilson, all three discussed the issues of the Reggae Music Industry and answered the questions of the audience.  It was the perfect prelude to an amazing show.

The show consisted of established as well as up and coming singers.  The line up reflected the different styles of Reggae that can be found in the UK today, both mature and younger artists performed to an amazing and receptive crowd.  The DJs created a warm and active atmosphere – I noticed no waning of interest or impatience in the audience whatsoever. The perfect end to the show was  Lorna Sutara Ji leading the DJ Rollcall with Horseman and Ricky Rankin – the crowd went into overdrive!

Also encouraging were the commendations from both artists and the general public alike.  It’s not that we hadn’t received such comments before, but this time it was said with more understanding and enlightenment of what we were trying to achieve and that made it the more special.

Although overwhelmed with the night’s success, the team knows that this was a launch.  It is now that the real work begins.  But oh what a night to herald in such a future!

Promoting. UK. Reggae. Excellence.

PAULETTE TAJAH BENDS OUR EAR!

Paulette Tajah

By Coral Consciouslee
8th September 2016

When an artist decides to present their latest achievements, it is the norm to make an announcement or host an event to present it to all and sundry.  So when RFUK received an invitation from Paulette Tajah inviting us to a ‘listening party’ I must admit  I didn’t think it would be any different from other such events I had attended.

The party was held at Markethouse, Brixton and upon entering I realised that this party was going to be different.  We were welcomed by the lady herself and presented with a package which contained a biog about the artist, a CD containing a few of her latest songs and also – this intrigued me – a paper with printed questions and a pen(?).  I also noticed a select and specific crowd had been invited, consisting mainly of people within the industry rather than just the general public.

The food was delicious!!

It was a cosy atmosphere from the beginning, we had a bar to hand and Paulette had thoughtfully laid on a buffet of very tasty food, which I don’t mind saying I visited more than once!

In her welcoming address, Paulette told us that in our packages we would find paper and pen, which we would be using to basically state our preferences and not only that, our reasons for doing so.  She went one step further: if we thought any of the songs were weak or could be improved upon could we also make a note of the song and suggest any improvements? 

I looked at Paulette carefully.  I thought how very brave of her to do this and I told her so. I am not sure I could sit amongst my peers and know they would be critiquing my efforts for an entire evening.  I admired her courage!

DJ Natty B was an excellent Compere!!

So for the next hour, we were treated to 16 songs, presented to us by DJ Natty B.  Oh girlfriend done good!! There were more than a few “PULL UP” requests; I personally think she has more than one hit on that list and definitely enough from which to make a very good album.  My favourite is “What You See Is What You Get” which I asked her to play again before I left. Paulette Tajah singing a roots song...who would have thought??

This was the scene for several songs!!

What struck me in particular was the family atmosphere.  We laughed and chatted together, all the time being aware that our opinion was important in Paulette’s final decision-making.   It was a very enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon and I felt privileged to be there. It was also a pleasure to know that behind the scenes Paulette had been working very hard indeed on new material of which she should be very proud.

I look forward to knowing which of the songs Paulette actually chooses for her coming album.  A concept well worth taking into consideration, for all artists.

Pictures courtesy of Kenny Passley

We had a whale of a time!!