 sinG with God was released on November 24th of 2017, a collaborative effort consisting of the vocal and lyrical contributions of Royal Blu, Lila Ike, Runkus and production genius Tim Foresta. The collective have created ethereal magic with this five(5) song compilation which covers a wide range of subjects which I believe all relate to life and our navigation through its occurrences/ events such as love, faith, illusion versus reality, growing and changing as a part of the evolving human experience. The artwork that blesses the project is from the outstanding Taj Francis. It is as always provoking and enchanting and only adds proper complement to the musical offering. The project captures my attention, imagination and appeals to all my senses on a different frequency. If I wasn't familiar with any of the artists, after listening I would have gone searching feverishly for more. It just has that vibe! My favourites therefore in order are: - Blu Mahoe - sinG with God - Believe - On The Side - Let's Get hiGh Tim Foresta production style compliments the very intelligent and gifted Royal Blu who writes beautifully, as he delivers in almost angelic tones across instrumental beats, which are easy on the ears. Runkus adds his midas touch to the project in clever and brilliant wordsound in his signature delivery style, never short of mind-blowing metaphors and similes. Lila's vocals added the femiNine balance to the two male prodigies on the project with her contribution on 'Believe'. I truly get a balance of ying and yang, the soft and hard. Blu projects a soft and soulful side with sinG with God and showcases that he has so much to offer us. I truly appreciate the work and personally look forward to more from this creative spirit. 'One time for your mind, two times for your soul' (Blu Mahoe). This is mind and soul music. Refreshing like the water from the stream. Purchase or stream @hyperurl.co/singwithgod . Follow - @lila_ike @theroyalblu @runkusinno and @TimForesta for more. Thanks for reading and please share! I remain singing with the Gods! Blissings 
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Released in July 2016, Leno Banton and his creative collective presents "REM SZN" - Rapid Eye Movement Season, the album produced by SNR. Its an introduction to the talented group comprising vocals by Leno Banton, Irie Girl and SNR accompanied by visual art from Karlando Miyagi and Khari Kamau. One creative voice on the come up, charging themselves with creating a new sound and bringing a new thing to the table.
The album is a 17 track project and offers a fusion of hip hop, reggae, grime and dancehall lyrics placed atop fresh beats. Banton is the son of Burro Banton so he is no stranger to music. REM SZN captures a collective musical and artistic perspective. It represents these young talents' making a mark in a time when creativity is bursting onto the scene and giving strength to the future of a more varied and diverse sound emerging out of the land of reggae and dancehall. Download REM SZN also available on SoundCloud. Follow @LenoBanton @snr876 and other creatives (visual arts) @KhariKamau and @kxrlymiyagi. #WELLRAPID #REMSZN.
Premiering on October 13th 2016, the earthday of REM Collective's Leno Banton is the 'CLASSIC' Video ft Banton and members of #remszn. Classic is the 4th track on the REMSZN album and the video is produced by @snr876. Go have a look.
 Five Steez Photo by Yannick Reid 2016 has seen many milestones in musical releases and among these are those from the Yard Hop movement based in Jamaica. While it’s still considered to be underground, I am very encouraged by the persistence of Peter ‘Five Steez’ Wright, and that is the inspiration behind this feature on the Yard Hop Pioneer and the movement in Jamaica. Steez has been very busy this year. In earlier 2016, he released a few singles (namely Signed and Sealed, My Life, My Craft and The Story), then a collaborative joint with The Council entitled Council of Arts featuring The Sickest Drama, Nomad Carlos and Inztinkz. This is in addition to Momentum Volume 3 the highly anticipated final series mixtape, of a trilogy with DJ Ready Cee then this summer the HeatRockz EP with Mordecai. My introduction to Steez was his first album War for Peace released in August 2012. My respect for his work ethic has grown since meeting him 4 years ago and I'm continuously impressed with his consistent delivery of quality content and lyrical prowess as an MC. The interview below captures his perspectives on hip hop, the yard hop scene and his 2016 projects as well as what’s in store for the rest year. Check it out! Question 1: On your recent Momentum Volume 3 mixtape, you stated that they no longer make mixtapes like this again. Tell me more about what that means. Five Steez: “I said they no longer make mixtapes like this again and I say that because the mixtape originally started out as something that a deejay or a sound system would do, and it would literally be on a tape. Whether they did it live at a dance, any event, or they were just on the verandah playing music. It probably started with a deejay using turntables and recording it to a tape. But over the years we see where a mixtape becomes something where, it’s almost like an album at times, you have artistes doing mixtapes. There was a time when you’d never have an artiste doing a mixtape, and it would never really have original music; and if it did, that was original music that was being leaked. It was exclusive, it was ahead of the time, ahead of the release, of the album or the single itself. So what I wanted to do with Momentum when I initially started the series, is do something that really felt like a classic hip hop mixtape, and I felt the right way to do that would be with a deejay, because hip hop started with the deejay. Before any rapper got any focus it was about the deejays, when you had the early jams, people went there to see the deejay or the sound system, so Kool Herc for example, people would want to hear his sound system and any rapper that got to touch the mic they were privileged to do so, you know, 'so I wanted to do something that included a deejay, it had mixing, scratching and it just felt like the early mixtapes of the 80’s, the 90’s because that’s the essence you know'.  And it’s not take to take away from anything that anyone else is doing, a lot of people are putting out mixtapes some of my friends as well; and some of these mixtapes, they fit the standard modern format which is that there is no deejay, there is no mixing, it’s just say 15 tracks all of them separated, you know. So that’s what they call a mixtape nowadays, but I’m a man that I believe in certain traditions and I like to keep the essence of certain things, so I wanted to make a mixtape that felt like what I know mixtape really means and there’re not many like that anymore. They’re really few and far between. It’s hard to find a mixtape with a deejay anymore or a mixtape that has mixing and certain type of deejay skills on it. They’re still there for show, there are some, but when you think about the amount of “mixtapes” being released and you think about how many of them have those features, it’s really the minority” Question 2: Other than yourself, who else should people be checking out as part of the yard hop movement. Five Steez: “As for the local movement, first off I’d tell people look out for the Council album that is myself, TSD – The Sickest Drama, Nomad Carlos and Inztinkz, and we’ve been working on the album for about a year now, and it will be great, that’s one thing I can say for sure. Anybody that likes my music or the music you’ve heard from the rest of us, the Council album will be high level art for sure, a lot of concepts and ideas that we’ve never done before and we’ve never really heard before in music or even coming out locally, a lot of content, a lot of commentary about socio-political realities in Jamaica, the content is very much about life in yaad and really breaking it down in a way people never hear it before. So that’s something that people can look forward to Aside from us, there’re people like NRG, you know New Reggae Generation, that’s Iyah Gift, Makonnen, and Rseenal. Makonnen recently put out his album Rockers Revolution some weeks ago people can check that out. I’m not sure exactly what they are working on as unit, I know they have a lot a music but they are definitely ones that people can look forward to. I see Illicit King putting out some new stuff recently; I’ve heard some of that and that’s interesting. And there’s whole heap a people out here doing stuff. Gully Cash he has a new single called Lose my Mind and he has an album called NGNG that should be coming out, not even sure what NGNG stands for yet. I understand it will be explained when the album is out. So people can look out for him.  The Council L-R - Nomad Carlos, Five Steez, Inztinkz, The Sickest Drama Photo - Yannick Reid Part B: What formula works to help keep the movement motivated? I wouldn’t say there is any formula and I think what keeps the movement motivated is the fact that everyone has their own individual motivation’s but there is a collective experience that we all share; and that is that yow, we’re a part of an underground movement, we’re a part of something that a lot of people locally still don’t know exists or they don’t have a favourable impression of Jamaican Hip Hop. Sometimes because they heard the wrong person or the wrong thing or people generally just don’t believe in it so we have a lot against us. Its harder to get support from people, and that makes it the underdog… and I think that also makes you even more determined if you believe in yourself to make something happen. So I think just the reality of being a rapper in yaad is likely to motivate people if you really believe in the craft and yourself. You’re going to be motivated to prove people wrong and to do something spectacular.” Question 3: Since War for Peace and These Kingston times, are you focused more on getting works out than trying to break the mainstream glass? Five Steez: “Most definitely, because yow, I love music I love hip hop and I do this first and foremost for myself. Secondly for the people who are in my audience and are like-minded, and that’s how it has always been ever since I started out rapping over ten years ago as a teenager, you know it was something I did for myself. It’s really a personal thing, it’s something that I have to do, [and] it’s a part of me you know. I’ve found that with my art, I don’t want to compromise, or do things that I’m not comfortable doing. And sometimes to break that “main stream glass” you end up having to do that. 'And I’ve just found that you know what I’m satisfied being happy with my music the way it is and getting it to the people who I know really care about it. So that’s really my focus. Just making dope art, getting it to the people who appreciate what I do and trying to reach more people who are like minded” You know that’s really the aim more than trying to go ‘main stream’. I am trying to connect with more people who like this type of music and you know I mean this is real hip hop. So there is a local audience for that yes, but the majority of the people are overseas scattered all over the world. So, that’s why my aim is always getting the music to certain DJs, certain websites and blogs that those people are interested in that type of music and their audiences are also interested in that type of music. So that’s the perfect way for me to reach people that care about this type of hip hop.” Question 4: How is the health of yard hop on the international scene since you and other members of the council have been pushing the movement? Five Steez: I would say we’re growing, we’re developing and its bigger than me and the Council because if you want to talk internationally you have people like Zuse and he is signed to T.I; and I am not sure if he’s still on tour but last he was touring with Tech N9ne and Tech N9ne is the most successful independent artist period, you know. So Zuse is doing some big stuff for himself you know. He as far as I know, he wasn’t that active on the local scene but he is from Jamaica we have a number of mutual friends. He’s still in touch with them and he‘s doing his thing almost on a main steam level cause I mean he’s signed to T.I and he’s touring with Tech 9 and Tech 9 is huge you know, so that’s a good look for him. You have people like Mike Beats based in California right now he has an album called Califoreigner. That’s just two examples of local guys who are actually based internationally and pushing the music. As for the rest of us who are based here in Jamaica, I find the internet is the best way to get in touch with an international audience; and for us the Council we target our music to the people that want the boom bap hip hop, the underground hip hop, the conscious stuff you know, and we’re taking our time we haven’t really put out too much music as you see, because we have been actually just focusing on just making the music and planning you know, but I would say yow, first coast hip hop among the people that treasure true ethics and principles of Hip Hop, those that have come in contact with what we do, they LOVE IT, they think it’s amazing, it’s incredible. They’re very surprised that this exists out here, they never thought that if it existed out here it would be so dope, so I think that’s a good thing. There is a lot of potential, good prospects; we can just keep pushing and get this to where we want it to reach, which is really being able to etch our names in history and be able to say yow Jamaica made this contribution to hip hop; not the contribution through Kool Herc and all the people who migrated but we want the island and the people who are here to be able to make a contribution for our scene to have something you know, so I would say there is a lot more work to be done but we’re not daunted not at all.” Question 5: Can we expect more collaborative works in the future? Tell us about HeatRockz coming in August and any other works we should pay attention to?
Five Steez: “Yes, there will be more collaborative works in the future for sure, for myself I have another EP with Mordecai, that one is called tentatively Love and Art and that is going to be very personal in fact it will be my most personal project ever, and it’s almost done you know, it’s just that when me and him started linking, and I started hearing his beats I found two distinct different vibes I found some beats that just had me nodding and I just wanted to spit and those are the ones that ended up making HeatRockz and then there were some other beats that really spoke to me differently and I took my time and I created some songs that were far more meaningful, stuff that kind of continues some of the themes that you hear on War For Peace. I think These Kingston Times was a lot of social commentary and you get that on War for Peace as well but this, there’s almost none of that on Love and Art. It’s just very personal you know, there’s the Council Album as well that’s the next collaborative project and that’s coming all being well before end of year. As for HeatRockz as I said , that is just bangers, really joints that you can play in the car you can just work out to, you can just play it and get people moving and have your head nodding and you can just enjoy the music. I enjoyed making it you know, really just me having fun flexing my skill, and its five tracks and as you see I been releasing each of them as a single. I didn’t want to just drop an EP and people pay attention to the one single and don’t listen to the rest of the songs. I thought it would be cool to roll out an EP in such a way that everything is a single and by the time it’s done you realize oh ye you have the entire EP, so its five tracks we put out, four so far and the fifth one will be released next Tuesday (August 30th); and when it is released the entire EP will be available for free download. So yea I mean, Heatrockz is really the warm up to get you ready for Love and Art which as I say that’ll be much heavier and it will be even a longer project. Love and Art is likely to be about 8 – 9 tracks and likely I’ll be selling it. Physical copies and all of that all being well. So HeatRockz is really the warm up and I don’t believe in coincidences, I guess it was meant to be, everything worked out in terms of the timing, cause I didn’t really set a time for it but as I was working on it and planning how I’d release it I realized ok it would end up coming out in summer and as I was searching for a name I guess HeatRockz made sense, because I’m dropping it in the summer, probably the hottest summer ever right, and then the joints are just bangers. I remember me and Mordecai we couldn’t figure out what we wanted to name the project, in fact we came up with probably a dozen names, and sometimes I would throw out something and he would just be like ‘nah dat don’t work’ or he would just message me some random time in the morning, just come up with a name and I’d just be like ‘naw, nah feel dat’, you zimmie and I can’t remember how we came up with HeatRockz, but we were just like ‘Yea! HeatRockz’, it just describes what the songs are and it gives you an idea of the vibes, it doesn’t tell you much except that yow, these joints are hot you know; and that’s the whole idea. I could have probably combined HeatRockz and Love and Art and made a full length album but I didn’t want to do that. I really wanted to kinda give you these singles as a warm up and to just really hold people’s attention, let them know ‘yo I’m here’ and then give you Love and Art, which I think zoning in on those 8 or 9 songs and just making it an EP can make it even be more powerful than if I tried to do a full length album with some other songs rounding it out you know. As I said HeatRockz, yea that’s the warm up, and Love and Art that actually I think is my best work ever, Love and Art for sure, to me is not even a question, like everything on Love and Art, so far I think is me at my best really.” Give thanks for the opportunity to capture and share this story and salute the artistes connected to Jamaica’s First Coast Hip Hop movement. Download HeatRockz EP and check out his new video Dirty Couch by Scotty DreamKiller with assistance from Dirx. Thanks for the love as always. Stick and Stay tuned for more @ #warriorsistrenseh. Blissings!! Warrior-Sistren @sistren_warrior “Sometimes what's left unsaid speaks the loudest” - Anonymous Often our challenging experiences feel like they take us to points of no return. However, I am defiant and returning, knowing that what I leave behind in this season is a burden lifting, not only from my shoulders but my mind. I am happy to let it all burn and be free. Not all cleansing is painful, sometimes it’s liberating, clearing the path for a brighter and more sustainable day. There is no more veiling of the truth and fantasy quickly fades in the light of truth’s new day. I had words unsaid but found they were no longer needful to be said. I can let them go like blossoms that float away on a breeze, knowing that within I have found peace. It’s ok to grieve, for what might have been but you can only do that for a time. Sometimes you just have to let your heart realize somethings were just not meant for your good. So this ending, this goodbye begins a new cycle of life experience for me and I am curious to see what it will bring. What is life anyway if you are not growing and evolving? These thoughts and musings bring me to share this song which I think captures my mood as I prepare to take flight from this side of my life. The words from the song below remind me that it is ok to find the good in goodbye:  An evening with Jah 9 is never just about a musical performance it is much more potent. Such was the launch of the Year of 9, Jah 9’s introduction to her summer tour that was held at Nanook, this past Wednesday July 20, 2016. Honestly I have been longing to see her perform and I have never seen a full set from her so this was truly a big opportunity which I was glad not to miss. Arriving on this very hot evening ahead of show time, I was greeted by Biko in motion as he played selections from Peter Tosh, Third World and Pentateuch preparing patrons for the evening’s proceedings.
I listened keenly to the choice of music and the theme seemed to be militant and revolutionary. He segued into dub music which was also welcome and analogous with Jah 9, whose musical roots began with listening to dub music and finding expression in the spaces in between. To compliment the scene, shortly before show time, nature also conspired with showers of blessing sealing the deal. As I gave thanks for the liquid sunshine, in my head I repeated the words of “Showers of Blessing” from 9. It was no coincidence but a quite fitting occurrence to welcome the Warriess Priestess, Jah9 accompanied by the Dub Treatment Band. Band in place, proceedings began with welcome by Nanook’s proprietor Joan Webley, no stranger to such an audience, she spoke about the significance of the numeral 9, its meaning which relates to completion. This discourse was continued and further expounded by Professor K’nIfe who spoke also about the significance and value of Jah’s 9 music in this time, he praised her work in music for its message to this generation which was helping to raise the vibrations, transferring necessary Knowledge to influence change in one’s “live” or livity. I found resonance in his words, profound yet clear, his introduction to the evening was edifying and uplifting. Jah 9 began her service by sharing not only her energy but also her soul, in songs. The songs performed were as follows:
I was feeling grateful and blessed under the full moon as all this loving nrg reverberated within me and reflected to all patrons who were now in tune. Learning to be as hard and as soft as water was the example manifesting with me. While each song was performed, Jah 9 did not miss the opportunity at interludes to express passionately her feelings and admonish us in positive love and correction. It was a humbling but also reassuring experience to feel a connection such as this. Most noteworthy was her performance of Hardcore and Unafraid. In the former, she warned against those who were letting ego make them hardcore but their heart was not pure. Truly, she was calling ones to self-reflection and examination. Jah 9 for me is like the warner woman of old or the abeng, a reminder to awake and prepare and be ready in a time when it is needed, for some of us are indeed sleeping on full awareness of the things which are for our benefit in these times. Message music has always been the mission from the beginning and this occasion of sharing was no different. I remember when she sang “This one is a warning warning, warning, warning”, I see now the synchronicity, it is no longer a warning or a drill, and it is now warfare as she enunciates in the hard hitting “Unafraid”, a powerful tune dismantling fear of speaking up and out against the wrongs against things happening within the community. She was unapologetic about the target for her new album stating that it was for the sisters in a very real way with no disrespect to the brothers. She outlined that the mission was to pay homage to the warriess spirit of the woman, thereby enabling a rising of the divine feminine nrg which is so needed in this very unbalanced time. This really connected with I as woman, I realized that there was also a sense of responsibility that I had to be accountable for, as well as a power and guidance from the ancestors, available to I in the earth to help heal I nation, which included my brothers, my sisters and the black nation’s children. The Year of 9 was not an exclusive experience it was very much inclusive. The Year of 9 involves work for all I n I to do. Powerful women are sometimes misunderstood but I give thanks to be alive in a time when a woman can rise in a positive light without compromising her integrity. I give thanks for examples such as 9 which encourage I to live up to higher self. Jah 9 is by far one of the most influential voices in these times and the Year of 9 is not only a trod in music, it is a trod in self-discovery and an open invitation to challenge oneself unafraid. Completing her set, the call came for an encore. She graced us again and closed out the show but not before asking us to perform a breathing exercise, in testament of her service as a yoga instructor. It was bliss to be there to witness this with my own eyes. Let the music be the message and let it wash over your consciousness to change you. In the words of 9 on 9mm Vol 1 “It is an honour and a privilege to make music in this time, give thanks for inspiration and guidance, this is Jah 9 and you’ve been listening to message music”. As I prepared these words of honour to I sister, she released her mixtape 9mm Vol 2 now available on soundcloud and @ http://www.jah9.com/ for free download and partaking. Go and unlock yourself and connect as we look forward to “9” on 9.9.2+0+6+1. Blissings and love as always and if this resonated do share by hitting the buttons below. Remember to follow @sistren_warrior and stay tuned for more @ #warriorsistrenseh. Warm Summer Nights were made for music such as what was beautifully produced and delivered via listening session by Overstand Entertainment’s Winta James and Oje Ollivierre (Protoje) accompanied by live performance with singer Sevana Siren. The self titled "Sevana" EP features five songs and was officially launched at the Red Bones Blues Café in Kingston, Jamaica on July 13, 2016, starting promptly at 8:00 p.m. Rachel Callahan the MC for the evening was very gracious in her introduction of Sevana, taking us back to the teenager singing at the breakfast table for her Mother. She then invited Winta to speak briefly on the project. He extended thanks to co-producer Protoje as well as other team members involved in production and mentioned that that it was an honour to work with Sevana who he described as dedicated to her craft. Following these comments, we were taken through the EP listening segment of the night's proceedings, beginning with the first song “Carry You”. It is soulful and Sevana's vocals feel like music more than they enunciate words, very beautiful. The second song “Bit Too Shy” the first and very popular single from Sevana was obviously well received. During the interlude between songs the MC interacted with the audience to keep the audience in flow and focus.  The heavy bass of “Love the Way” was hard to miss and stood out on the first listen. It was followed by previews of “Easy to Breathe”, “Rawle” and the listening was completely sealed with recent “Chant It”. I will reserve my reaction to the entire project at this time but I can tell you that I am never tired of hearing Sevana’s strong and passionate vocals. She makes me feel and this is the most important thing to me as listener. I must be able to connect and she accomplishes that unapologetically. Post her live performance of “Bit Too Shy”, “Chant It” and “Carry You” from the EP, which by the way were gorgeously rendered backed by acoustic guitar, she hinted in responding to the audience that she intends to dabble in other genres. I certainly look forward to the brilliance that will come. The launch was short, sweet and stylish Sevana Siren style.  “Sevana” has already started its international climb to recognition, debuting on the UK Reggae Charts at 9, and with an upcoming tour, I have nothing but great feelings about the future for Sevana, she is definitely on the right path to realizing her full artistic potential. Go out and get the project on Itunes and follow @sevanasiren on twitter. As always support the artist. Hit the Share button to let everyone else know about this awesome woman and talent! Since the launch of Sevana and performances at Reggae Jam 2016, the singer/ songwriter shared the story behind the her EP in this brief video. Have a listen: Follow me on twitter @sistren_warrior and stay tuned for more @ #warriorsistrenseh. Blissings! WarriorSistren Blvk H3ro takes you on a trippy elevated exploration inside the high, that is produced from his relationship with the Holy Herb with his first visual production, for the popular track Herb” (Healing of the Nation). The track was featured on the previously released "Reggae Soul” and re-appears on the 4 20 tribute released this week “The H3rb Connoisseur (#THC) #Weedp”. Take the highway to the sky-way with “Herb’ the video then take off like jet planes as you partake in THC - The H3rb Connoisseur, EP. It’s just the tip of the iceberg and H3ro is turning the corner in fine style. He is already making waves with his very eclectic and diverse sound consisting of soulful soft jazzy vocals which sometimes contrast a grittier and raw deejay style, which when placed atop very innovative and fresh beats make a perfect concoction that is intriguing and entertaining. I will be watching his story unfold and the flavor he will bring with his creations. Check out my review of his performance at Reggae Riot .
 The Philip Sherlock Centre was ‘lit…erally’ transformed this past Monday into the scene for a splendid evening by Elysium Events, who hosted Reggae Riot at the University of the West Indies’ Mona Campus. The event billed established quality acts as Sizzla, Agent Sasco, Beenie Man and included freshness with the likes of Kelissa, Dre Island, Runkus, DBurnz, Blvk H3ro, Ras I, Quada and Girl. There were some surprises which were to come but let’s get straight into it. Hosted by Debbie Bissoon who after bringing rousing greetings to patrons, announced the opening act, Quada who did a good job introducing himself to the full capacity audience.
I was impressed with the venue which offered comfortable seating arrangements in an appropriately intimate space. This was my first time attending an event on campus. It was fabulous to also be a part of an event in tribute to Beres Ford Hammond. I am all for honouring the greats while they are still here to receive it, and he is certainly a worthy icon. Post Quada’s exit, Debbie Bissoon emphasized the importance of Jamaican’s ownership of reggae and stressed that its authenticity could not be replicated in feeling and performance because as she alluded reggae was something you lived and felt. These well said sentiments ushered the second act Girl on stage, who entered with Buju Banton’s and ‘Our Father in Zion’. She also performed selections from Tarrus Riley, ‘Lion Paw’ and Morgan Heritage’s, ‘I’ll Be Down by the River’. I found her stage presence very engaging and vocals very distinct, they made me sit up and really take notice. I made a note to investigate this newly introduced talent. Another noteworthy point about the event was that all proceeds were being donated to the Alpha Boy’s Home. I commend Elysium for this and for also choosing a spectacular host who kept the audience occupied and entertained with stories of her days as a country girl on campus. Many of course in the audience found it easy to relate. The show continued with Blvk H3ro. His entry was high energy, and when I suppose the crowd was waiting to decide if they were intrigued or not, things got interesting. He was consistent in his delivery, improvising and showing flexibility, keeping the energy light and successfully broke the ice perfectly. No sooner had he done this, he went in for the “kill” with ‘Final Destination’, a smooth and classy delivery of spicy and sexy lyrics which won the crowd’s heart. H3ro then segued into the popular ‘My Story’. He sampled Runkus’ ‘Move Yuh Feet’ and Protoje’s ‘Answer to Your Name’. Remember when I hinted at surprises, mid-way delivery, Protoje joined H3ro on stage to uproar from a surprised but pleased audience. They parred a little on stage, with Protoje delivering supporting lyrics from H3ro’s original ‘H3rb’, whose video is also pending. It was really brilliant to see his confidence. He certainly has a bright future ahead and you would have to be blind not to see that, and even then you would have been able to feel it through his delivery. Palate perfectly satiated, the audience was treated to a brief video presentation on the impact of Beres Ford Hammond music. A short informative biography was also offered by a member of the Elysium team. Noteworthy comments mentioned Beres’ music as an honest reflection on the man and woman love story. He was lauded for his consistency and authenticity. This was a perfect point for The Vibe to do a musical tribute to the legendary singer. They performed a slew of hits, from the honoured singer's catalogue including, ‘Rock Away’, ‘Feel Good’, ‘She Loves Me Now’ and ‘Tempted to Touch’. It was refreshing to see a female percussionist and drummer in the band. Later they were joined by the timeless Karen Smith who delivered a spirited rendition of ‘Putting Up Resistance’. Watching this pouring out on stage reminded me of something very real, when musicians give themselves to an audience, they spill all their emotions and sometimes parts of their very being and the audience responds in like energy exchange. Once you connect yourself to the people, you remain rooted in their hearts. It was certainly nice to witness and participate in the exchange. The line-up continued as Runkus came on stage with the Old School Band and delivered ‘Rain Start Fall’, ‘Skin Tone’, ‘Move Yuh Feet’ and 'Kindness', Protoje returned in a show of solidarity. As usual, I was intrigued by Runkus’ lyrics and style. Certainly looking forward to seeing and hearing more from him as he grows in his craft. Ras I then introduced himself with a very warm and rootsy sampling of the classic, ‘Stepping Out’ by Steel Pulse . He also delivered ‘Shine Eye Gal’ by Black Uhuru and 'Dread inna Babylon' an original, with his Revelations Band. He closed with the Third World Band’s 'Roots with Quality' of which I was most appreciative. His exit summoned the presence of DBurnz who gave a lively set with ‘Bet Yuh Neva Know’ pairing with 5 Star who gave us ‘Warn Dem’. DBurnz closed with crowd favourite ‘Run Babylon’. Next on stage was Dre-Island and the Jah Warriors Band whose immediately recognizable sound transformed this segment of the show. I witnessed musical growth and good stage presence and was also appreciative of his delivery of his now burgeoning catalogue, songs such as ‘Rotten Apple’, ‘On Time’ and ‘My Love’. Kelissa joined him intertwining ‘Best Kept Secret’ and later Chronixx added his melodious contribution to the duet. Surpise! Again I was not disappointed. Dre Island closed his performance with high energy, sending the audience to their feet with ‘M16’ and ‘Way Up’. While I was not able to see the remaining acts, I was satisfied that it would have almost been impossible for it to have fallen below the quality we had experienced all night. My heart shook off the slight disappointment and reveled in the satisfaction of a high quality show, for a low cost, in an intimate space, for a good cause, in honour of one of Reggae’s finest Beres Ford Hammond. Hats off to the Elysium Production team who put on a riot of good vibes. From all reports, Sizzla, Agent Sasco and Beenie Man also delivered. Reggae Riot is definitely something I would attend again. It’s been my pleasure to share its moments with you. Blissings till next time WS  Reflecting on the high that was Ancient Future Live with Protoje and the Indiggnation fills me with a sense of deep appreciation for the cohesive and stellar display of musicianship that was conveyed February 20th, 2016 under a fully moon lit sky in Kingston, Jamaica. Reggae music is still king and the full cast of appearances for the night testified to this in lyrical delivery, vocal ability and skillful instrumental support. The high points of the evening are many and I intend to share my impressions of the Ancient Future Live experience. To date, it is the most impeccable production I have seen locally and I want to salute Protoje and his team for the high quality standard he strives to maintain. It speaks volumes about his understanding of not only producing stellar music but transitioning that to a live experience with the audience in a very organic space. The Shell Band Stand provided the perfect ambiance to “fulljoy” introductory musical selections for the evening from Yaadcore. No stranger to the reggae revival terrain, the musical connoisseur guided patrons through a diverse mix of reggae royalty's finest songs and kept patrons entertained until the start of the show. The task of introducing the man and band of the evening was most suitably and efficiently done by Dutty Bookman. The Indiggnation greeted the now swelling Hope Gardens space with clear and crisp sounds which beckoned on stage, Protoje. He opened the musical feast with Criminal, Track 2 from the album. The musical experience of Ancient Future Live had begun. His presence on stage reflected the years of experience playing internationally to various audiences across the globe, but you could tell it was a joy to be able to give his home this special show the only one of its kind since his first album in 2010. As the opening notes of Protection rang out through the venue Protoje handed over the spotlight to Mortimer who heralded a throng to pull closer to the stage as they performed Track 1 from the album. Judging from the reaction of fans this was a favourite. Following this Protoje launched into Warrior on which he was featured with Kabaka Pyramid. To the audience's delight, he was giving us Ancient Future Live a fusion of sounds, songs and styles. This was quickly followed by his rendition of Police in helicopter before the seamless transition to All Will Have to Change then Bubbling, track 4 and 8 respectively. Protoje followed on closing with lines from Jah 9’s Steamers a Bubble and his own Marijuana. Protoje was amply supported in sound and precision by the InDiggNation. They provided a sonically brillant experience like no other. Every member played their part to keep proper timing and tune which added extra flair to the evening of music. I did not just see quality, I felt and heard it in my mind body. The packaged experience was also made complete with visuals on screen produced by creatives Taj Francis and Yannick Reid. They provided visual brilliance to the story being told on stage and were a perfect complement to the aura created by melting pot of audience steeped in musical appreciation reciprocating what they were receiving from the Indiggnation. As the Ancient Future album continued to unfold song by song Protoje continued to intersperse, songs from various musical influences such as Baby Cham and Bounty Killa Look into My Eyes & Another Level). They were quite appropriate and really created a feeling of nostalgia. I believe it also spoke to the multidimensionality of artistic influences on the artist, which had personified itself into the manifestation of Ancient Future album. This was the introduction to Styling track 5, which was presented in fine style (pun intended). I was quite impressed with Paris Lamont’s support of Protoje’s delivery on keyboard. He rendered Black Uhuru Shine Eye Gal, Outkast So fresh and So Clean with Protoje sealing the deal with lyrical excerpts from Keida’s Jamaican Boy. It was perfect. The man of the moment Diggy also displayed his skillful lyricism delivering fresh freestyles to the delight of his overwhelmingly adoring following. He was joined on stage shortly thereafter by the lovely Sevana and together they gave us Love Gone Cold, track 6 twisted with No Lipstick from the 7 Year Itch album. This segued into Who Can You Call track 10. The features from the previous two albums continued with musical mention of Roll and Come My Way from the 8th Year Affair. Sudden Flight track 7 was next on the agenda which saw Sevana returning to the stage joined by the small axe, Jesse Royal. Surprise Guest, Agent Sasco, joined the trio on stage to much delight and welcome, his presence injected more excitement to the building pitch of high vibes. Protoje closed out this section with Hail Ras Tafari from the 8th Year Affair. Chronixx joined him to perform track 3, Who Knows, which has enjoyed widespread success. The musical comradery was as usual nice to see and experience, Chronixx ‘s melodies are unmatched and his delivery of Spanish Town Rockin’ and Smile Jamaica were quality and definite crowd pleasers. It was at this juncture that as we say “di dancehall mash up” when Protoje called his mother, Lorna Bennett, on stage who showcased her deejay skills. The audience was overcome and showed their appreciation with fingers in air, confirming that musical shots had been fired. It was simply a joy to see so much support and love displayed in this moment. In this moment I felt the words he bellowed “This is Protoje! This is the Indiggnation, Reggae wi a play n we do this everyday”. The Flame closed out the night’s performances with Kabaka Pyramid coming on stage to put the icing on a well-produced and flawless experience. The full cast then returned to the stage to resounding applause from their now grateful recipients who knew well they had just experienced magic. Ancient Future Live was worth every dollar and cent spent to make the production come alive and provide an experience like no other. It is a standard for how music should be delivered to an audience and an ode to the journey of the man with the seven year Itch a celebration of his accomplishments and testament to his solid presence in the musical landscape. If you missed it, you missed an evening of musicianship extraordinaire sealed with love and joy that only the King’s music can provide. Reggae lives it never died, Live Music is Living music; this remains my testimony after basking in the experience that was Ancient Future Live. Go out and get the album available on I-tunes and support the artist. You may also like to read my review of the album Protoje’s Ancient Future: The Progression. It was a pleasure to convey in words a memorable night of music with a message. Blissings Warrior Sistren  Photos contributed by Jaysmilez Photography January 21, 2016 Trying something new can really help to eliminate the feeling of being stuck. Sometimes, you just need a little spark or variety, to ignite your imagination or worldview, which will add some extra meaning to your daily life. Recently I watched a Ted Talks video which spoke to trying something new for thirty (30) days (Link). The speaker related how listing small things he really wanted to do then executing them in the timeline changed his perspective of himself in small increments. He began to feel less dull and became enthused about possibilities, as his list of things grew from biking to work to climbing Kilimanjaro. It was very brief, but one thing that screamed at me as I watched him, through slightly exasperated eyes, on this particular evening after a long day at my 9-5, was that I needed to start small. My mind quickly flashed to my small garden patch that was only a few steps away. It was not yet excessively thriving but its growth was steady, and though there were some exceptions, which didn't make it past the first stage of planting, the growth of those that did laid the foundation for future abundance. Not only was the landscape of my once desolate front yard evidently transformed but also it was a start to sustainable change, including a change in me. For a few years now, I have been encouraged by a very good friend to make the step. I was otherwise occupied and just didn’t know if it was best seeing I live in the sunshine city where vegetation may find it difficult to survive. This discouraged me. Late last year, the same friend decided to help me shed that discouragement by prepping a small space for planting. I was at first slightly petrified that I would not get it right, (yes I am a little neurotic about such endeavors). Anyhow there was the soil and there I was with a few stalks of callaloo, one of my favourite greens, so I took on the task of planting the five. More than 30 days later I am proud to say I have reaped the reward of a meal once and now new growth springs forth. I have also added another small batch and remain committed. In addition, I put in a couple garlic pegs on the weekend, of which one has started sprouting, after just a few days in the ground. New Growth is a beautiful thing! I also made the trip to purchase pepper and cucumber and cantaloupe to try my hand or green thumb at. Vines are now spreading for the latter two while the former is a little far ahead and will be transplanted to a pot. In the thirty (30) or so days I have been doing this, I have noted that the benefit is also physical and spiritual. Back to that exasperated feeling, most evenings I consider it free therapy to be able to water my small patch of vegetation and count it as even more joy to work in it pulling up weeds or turning over the soil. Yes I have gotten “proper proper” tools to work with too! I look at myself (Farmer Jane) as a friend teases and I say look at you! One small change has made a big difference, piquing my interest in so many things now. I didn’t really have that keen focus before now I find myself researching how to regrow things and paying more attention to how I treat earth in general. I realized that while working in my garden has become a meditation of sorts, I was also helping to provide food (sometimes frustratingly so to other life). Bugs and caterpillars came, butterflies too. I consider it homage to earth. Paying forward some of what I have been blissed to receive. In the same breath, I am able to also eat some of what she has blessed me with over the years so in all it is a “win win”. In this time when climate change is such a hot topic, I am not sure if it is entirely too late to reverse some of the effects but I also believe that there are many solutions which require little or no great investment to execute. I am a perfect example of this. In summary, a small change brings the solution to sustainable change. In closing, this is what I wanted to truly share:
P.S one cantaloupe plant didn’t make it and so did mint which I also tried but I kept going. Don’t give up! #gardeningisfun #eatwhatyougrow #StartSmall #Challenge&Grow #blissingalways Warrior Sistren
 Second Reaping of Callaloo New Year, New Who?
January 10, 2016 By Warrior Sistren As we transition into each new cycle of experience, the usual process as we come into the new is to set our eyes on the things we would like to achieve. While I am not really into new years’ resolutions, there is a place for setting yourself goals of any nature, which will bring you benefit and feelings of fulfillment. In this way resolving to do something will add value to your everyday life. When we may choose to resolve to achieve these life goals, is all up to us, whether in the new year, new week or new day, any moment is ripe for evolving. The moment I realized that I could create the life I wanted with my actions, thoughts, choices, decisions and focus, I saw the limits fall and possibilities expand. I knew I had power over most of the things that happened and that was empowering. The year 2015 was one in which I realized a few critical personal accomplishments. Some of the things I had spent years wanting or working for, finally happened and to see them actualize is a true experience of gratitude. As the year drew to a close I learnt that although we may have a plan, we must also have the fortitude to stick with it even when it is challenging to do so. As I begin 2016, I have decided to challenge myself to growing in my experiences, while maintaining all the good I have already built for myself. In this pursuit, it’s less about the newness of the thing but more about evolving into a wholesome soul. So as many of us say “New Year, who dis?” or “New Year, New Me”, let’s not chase the new but instead allow ourselves the moments to grow to become more than we were. As we approach these precious moments, which we have not yet lived, and while the new calendar Year is still fresh, I would like to encourage us to think in a new way about the new us, the growth of you and I that will be of benefit to those with whom we connect this time around. Let’s make the moments count for all they can. Let’s grow. Let’s Be. Let’s Elevate. Let’s do all we can with all we have now. It’s the perfect time. Here’s to NEW opportunities for growth and sharing, living and loving with everything in our being. Happy New Moments! Happy New You! And remember “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” ~ Arthur Ashe #blissingsalways Jamaica Music Conference 2015: Sustaining an Industry
November 25, 2015 This year’s staging of the Jamaica Music Conference (JMC) provided an excellent opportunity for those working formally and informally in the industry, locally and internationally to discuss problems but also find solutions to some of the challenges facing the sector. It also provided an opportunity to interact with students from the Haile Selassie I High School which has been a focal point of goodwill for the JMC. What follows is a synopsis of the JMC weekend of panel discussions as well as a brief commentary on other events for the three days of activities commencing on November 20, 2015. It is my intent to focus on the insight and gleanings, which were most significant to I experience from what was arguably an essential grounding for all who were in attendance. Service Day 2015 Each year’s activities begin with a Service Day which involves students from the Haile Selassie High School. This year, students were taken to an organic farm in St. Catherine and were also exposed to a film capturing the work of Habesha Incorporated. Many of them were easily engaged when expressing themselves through live performances, which gave them an opportunity to show skills in drumming and vocal performances. The team was heartened at their willingness and boldness but also the courage shown by those who at first appeared shy and unwilling to participate. Despite this, there is much to be done to ease issues of concern relating to how the youths value and view themselves. There is much work to be done to reach them right where they are, and show them another way from what they are perhaps used to in less fortunate circumstances of life in which many find themselves. In visiting the school, it’s also noted that once a year is not enough and immediately thoughts of how to create a greater impact comes to mind because the ultimate hope is that a positive influence will turn the tide to necessary change which will stem a disturbing cycle of self-destruction. We have a mammoth task ahead. Day 1 Panel 1 –- “The Role of Education in Creating Independent Music Professionals & a Sustainable Music Industry” The first panel consisted of Hugh Douse, UWI Lecturer at the Institute of Caribbean Studies and Rayven Amani, Founder of the Jamaica’s Best School Band Competition. Salient points discussed emphasized the importance of training for all professions in the industry especially as it relates educating the youth to see music and the performing arts as seriously as other professions are taken in terms of preparation. The discussion also pointed out the importance of not just recognizing talent but also helping individuals reach their potential. Ms. Amani spoke specifically to having to give a wakeup call to students who only see the glittery side of being a performer. Also highlighted was the lack of music programs in high schools, with fewer schools actually having students sit the exam. This obviously was sending the wrong message to those interested in moving forward in this direction. Mr. Douse emphasized this with statistics and exposed the weaknesses of even the Ministry’s role in making music a priority. Solutions offered were for those interested to take advantage of training opportunities, like those created by the Institute and Edna Manley. Closing points and advice were to take the craft as seriously as any entrepreneurial endeavor. Adequate training and preparation was hailed as the answer to raising the profile of the industry in the minds of parents of the talented youth, Jamaica’s society and a means by which we can measured on the international stage. Day 1 Panel 2 –- “Developing and Protecting your Brand” Distinguished panelists Marcus Goffe, Attorney and Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) Trademark Manager, Joavan Puran, Visual Artist and Stephen Newland of the Rootz Underground Band participated. Mr. Puran shared his passion for his art and invited deep contemplation of what it takes to build a brand while Mr. Goffe provided important information relating to registering trademarks. Stephen Newland of the Rootz Underground band offered advice on building one's brand and revenue stream through merchandising during touring. The following are useful resources for further contemplation for those looking to protect their brand. https://www.jipo.gov.jm/ (Jamaica Intellectual Property Office) http://www.copyright.gov (US copyright Office) http://www.uspto.gov/trademark (US Patents and Trademark Office) Day 1 Panel 3 – “The Women of the Jamaica Music Industry” This panel was the most spirited of the day’s activities and it’s no secret as to the cause; it raised for discussion the point of how gender is perceived in a perceptibly male dominated field. It consisted of Denise Isis Miller Radio Host and Event Promoter, Kareece Lawrence, Publicist and Manager, Masani Montague, Booking Agent and Promoter and Leslie Ann Welsh, Production Manager, Anubis and Manifesto Jamaica. The women shared their experiences some negative and others positive in the industry which also pointed out possible ways in which relations for business could be improved between the opposite gender as well as working relationships among women in the industry. It was noted that there needs to be a greater atmosphere of cooperation and also inculcate a culture of respect for the valuable contribution of women to the industry. Day 2 Panel 1 – “Music and Social Change” Member of Parliament Olivia “Babsy” Grange and Joan Webley, Founder of Nanook Enterprises were the panelists for this discussion. Ms. Grange shared at length her within the music industry in Canada as well as in Jamaica in addition to her involvement in the “Abi” Reggae festival which was held earlier in April of this year in the Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast in Africa). Ms. Webley also shared her experiences as part of United Purpose tour in Europe earlier this year. Lessons shared were for a more united effort to declare a Jamaican presence at these overseas festivals in light of the fact that Jamaica’s Reggae Sunsplash had inspired Rototom Sunsplash, yet it appeared that the due or respect was not being reciprocated locally. Proactive response suggested was to look at how communally the creative community could garner financial gain as well recognition in the overseas market. Day 2 Panel 2 – “Reaching the People: The Direct to Consumer Relationship” The panel was chaired Delroy Thompson, Founder of Juice TV, Media and Streaming Services, Kabaka Pyramid, Recording Artist, Ricky Trooper, Sound Trooper System and Masani Montague, Founder, Upfront Theatre, Rasta Fest and Sistah Fest. Ms. Montague spoke at length regarding her organizing for the Sistah Fest and Rasta Fest and her work in Toronto. Kabaka shared briefly on touring recently in Europe. He shared that having a professional team is important that will help you organize efficiently. Mr. Thompson shared on his work on the Abi Reggae International Music Festival. Ricky Trooper spoke of the importance of sound systems in creating that all important buzz for an artist yet seemingly this recognition is not reciprocated to those involved in the culture. Reaching the people involves taking the music to them. He spoke to his early days and involvement with the music and his passion for it. Day 2 Panel 3 – “Navigating Prime Time” Contributions came from Kendall Minter Esq. Entertainment Attorney, Agent Sasco (formerly known as Assassin), Garfield “Chin” Bourne, Manager& Promoter of Irish and Chin Promotions and Winford Williams, Creator and TV host, Onstage TV. Mr. Minter shared advice as it relates to artist rights to protect their music. It was interesting to note that many were not fully informed of their rights including some panelists who were artists. I think this speaks to the value of such a conference to even those seasoned in the business. Irish and Chin spoke to how he built his brand but also highlighted issues that come with booking artists for shows and also the seeming decline in dancehall music as well as overcharging by some artists. Winford Williams shared his wealth of experience from producing shows to hosting Onstage, which is without argument a growing brand in the Jamaican media landscape as well as in other territories. He spoke to using you tube as a platform to reach persons live, thereby expanding the audience reach. The lingering feeling was to first educate yourself on your rights and have supporting documentation to support agreements made between artists and producers. It was also emphasized that we need to join societies or groups that represent our art to also take advantage of getting in the know of the industry. In between the discussions, on Friday and Saturday, attendees of the conference were feted to acoustic and band supported performances on both nights. The stage shows featured acts such as Jah Bouks, Lymie Murray, Asante Amen, Rayven Amani, Samory I, Feluke, the Marcus Garvey Revolutionary Guards, and an appearance by Iba Mahr to launch his LP, Diamond Sox, all rolled into the Conscious Reggae Party brand. There were also brief reasonings with the audience by this year’s revolutionary Speaker, Mutabaruka, and the reggaelutionary speaker and one of the JMC's founders Dejazmatch Kwasi Bonsu. It was a thought provoking and fulsome weekend. We anticipate further growth in the coming year and encourage wholeheartedly all who work in the industry to attend where possible. You will not be disappointed. BLAK IWA TV also looks forward to the continued partnership with the JMC team. WarriorSistren Travelling “Home” August 25, 2015 The feeling of travelling home is one of recognition, reflection and acceptance. It takes time to return and to find your place of beginning but when you do it is absolutely magical. Things are not always as they seem and sometimes time allows us to garner a perspective that is wiser and more productive than youth’s naive although relevant gaze. Recently I had the chance to fulfill a long standing need of returning to my roots, to “home”, which was very cathartic in how it helped me expose my past insecurities and helped me heal the wounds I have long carried. I was able to balance my perspectives on a particular matter which had long been a burden to me. Words cannot express the gratitude I feel now for having been afforded this opportunity to redeem my soul and also heal it. We can never truly deny where we are from, no matter how far we run. If we do,we live a lie. Sometimes you have to make a physical, spiritual and mental journey to find that the place where you started to chart the way forward. This experience allowed me to do the following things which I know will ensure a clearer future and perspective on matters that I thought I had decided on. 1. Appreciate the present moments derived from my past 2. Place perspective on all my views 3. Forgive and heal The affairs of my heart on this matter have settled in some sense and I no longer have the apprehension towards the situation. I can face it confidently as myself and know that while all things were not perfect, they were necessary. I no longer hold resentment near because I know there was a bigger picture to even the suffering that may have been inadvertently experienced. In honour of the words shared I share this one from Iba Mahr, from a place in time where I spent my childhood is quite the appropriate scene. Many of us are just travelling home. WarriorSistren  KingSun : The Testaments of Sunlight and Water A Chapbook by Gladstone Taylor photocredits by Jik Reuben Welcome the KingSun
“Welcome, This is Kingston” words from Five Steez (Jamaican Yaad Hop Pioneer) in his latest EP “These Kingston Times”, is befitting of how I would like to introduce to you in my humble way, my experience of Glad “Stone” Taylor’s debut literary work “KingSun: The Testaments of Sunlight and Water”, The chapbook. Hopefully I will pique your interest to ensure you do check out this literary work. Gladstone's testaments tell the story of the duality of life in the king's town, Kingston, Jamaica. He explores the dark and light hues of life here, the harshness and also the bliss that exists on this rock, often revered as the “likkle but tallawah” powerhouse, known across the globe for its social, cultural, and spiritual contributions (among others) and influence to the world. It explores spiritual and mental evolution in this time through the eyes of a young but maturing mind. The chapbook is divided into five (5) testaments which trace experiences across three (3) years of Stone’s journey. This work is one which was most engaging, it kept me interested from short story to socio-political commentary to poetry complimented with meaningful and relevant artwork. I loved how real events were interwoven with the imagination or fictional explorations that were shared. It was an absolute adventure that really left me satisfied and inspired while also touching a chord of resonance of truth. It awoke a fire to create, to be, to grow beyond all limits, re-igniting my own passion to express. I have no regrets; I only recommend that you find out for yourself of what I speak. My other reason for sharing briefly my thoughts is to speak to the support for young writers and scribes whose gift of expression serves as a blessing to those who partake. I do it also to reiterate that not all youth are out here doing negative things, and though there are reasons for the existence of negative behavior anywhere on this planet, it is my purpose to speak of the all things pertinent to my story including my encounter with the fruit that this young, bright and fruitful mind has brought forth for contemplation. I believe that is what Gladstone’s testament has done. He has shown me that a balanced perspective of life in the sun is such a great necessity; it is indeed a universal requirement, for everywhere there exists the good, the bad and the ugly. This is not just another book; it is a socio- political and cultural record for generations of this particular time in Jamaica’s history where the creative arts as a whole, not just music, has become a safe space for youthful expression. It is also evidence of hope in these times of authentic creative pursuits and passion. If you have looked around and looked within lately, you would find that we have no time to dwell on the lesser things of lower vibration, there is enough of that in the world. It is our responsibility to evolve and become greater than we have ever imagined. We must raise our vibrations and our consciousness to transcend into the lives we were meant to have when our mothers’ birthed us and we came out into the sunlight. I leave you with something from the KingSun: “A flame only seeks to share its heat. It says you are never more beautiful, than when you are burning hot” (page 51, KingSun) While I continue to let my words burn and be beautiful, I hope they will provide a light, as this work has done, for “if I have a light, I have everything” (page 53, KingSun). Thanks for your time and salute to all writers and scribes telling their stories one word at a time. The chapbook is available on amazon, also do go see Gladstone’s creative space. WarriorSistren The definition of the word imagine is to “form a mental image or concept of or believe something to exist or be”.
Literally then I conceive mentally what I would like to be, and for it to be real, it must first be conceived in my thoughts so that it may manifest in this present moment. Thoughts with flesh! How powerful! The last few weeks have been sobering. As Jimmy Cliff said many rivers to cross and sometimes even I do feel like I won’t make it over but as Chronixx says “aint no giving in”, so music continues to inspire I from day to day. Liberation very much like revolution comes with a cost and I have “paid” some dues, ones that were necessary to move into the next phase of imagination, what I want to refer to as active creation. The next moves will be powerful and already I sense that it will require more abandon of those things which no longer serve the benefit of my soul and preserving it. I am grappling with this letting go, but this calling that pulls on me, will not let me turn around and return from whence I came and fear will just have to die a natural death with no resurrection. If you could see into my mind into the contemplation of my heart, then you would see how much love I have to give and want to share, I crave the good and great works that will come. I would only want them done in proper timing but happen they must. I sincerely hope that for all you have encountered a special call upon their soul, that you will heed the call. There is greatness to be fulfilled. I speak from my heart. Find your vision, then own the strength to pursue it as it is revealed to you. And when the road gets rocky, just keep going. I am ever so thankful for those who have been here from the beginning before it got this far, helping me, in the middle and continue to be here when the days are long. My warmest thanks radiate to you all. So healing is necessary now and building from within to fortify the temple. When right within, then right without, balance and fortitude for the passionate work to come. So what do you imagine? I imagine the best life possible to be lived now. Perfect and Blissed Love . Warrior Sistren |
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