Triple The Focus - November 2011 Issue by TRIPLE THE FOCUS E-MAGAZINE

TRIPLE THE FOCUS November 2011 3 Editor’s Note

16 She’s a Bad Mama Jama!

6 Art & Content Director’s Note

20 At All Cost Tifa’s Steady Climb To Stardom!

8 Meet The Team

12 Reggae’s New 22 Sa Ka Fete Protoje - Foundation for the next generation 24 Creative Director’s 12 Note 14 DJ Karyzma Presents “Pedal To The 16 Metal” COVER PHOTO CREDIT MAKE-UP

Renee Baptiste Metamorphosis New York

CLOTHING

Iliana Quander Amparo 3 Sohung Designs

JEWELRY

Joan Max Reinmuth Design

PHOTOGRAPHER

Champion Hamilton Photography

Editor’s Note SECOND TIME AROUND Here we are already putting together the second issue of Triple The Focus and having fun! The thing that has fueled the team however has been your feedback from the release of our premiere issue in October. Here is what you said: This is fabulous. I enjoyed all of the articles. How often will your magazine come out? Carolyn B., Silver Spring, MD Congrats! I love it – refreshing and new. Winsome W., Edison, NJ I just finished reading the articles from the E-Magazine. Once I started I couldn’t stop. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Janet W., Elmwood Park, NJ Wow! The magazine is great and personal! Natascha N., Amsterdam, NL I loved it! The pictures, the layout, the articles and artists featured... info was just enough! Well done! Alecia H., Philadelphia, PA Thank you so much for your thoughtful messages and words of encouragement. Though we are on a high now, we know that we have to raise the bar, which makes the pressure that much greater. But I think we are up for the challenge. I am super excited about the November issue. This month we have exclusive interviews with Protoje, Tifa and Badgyal Ce’cile. Ce’cile’s recent release of her new album, Jamaicanization and her growing success made it only fitting to have her grace the pages of our magazine. While I am feeling the pressure to deliver a stellar issue, I was able to take time out to enjoy the interviews of Protoje and Tifa. For Tifa’s feature I was reminded of the first time I met the dancehall diva. I still smile when I remember that very night. She is a breath of fresh air – one I hope you will inhale and enjoy. Protoje’s piece was more serious and we wanted to get deep into his mind and bring you his thought process. With singles that are thought provoking, it was important to show you the substance that he brings to the business.

Also featured is our team! We decided to shine the spotlight on ourselves and I have even decided to go one step further and share photos from my recent trip to St. Lucia. I hope you enjoy. Another exciting aspect of putting together the November issue took place on Sunday, October 23rd. To step up our game, we enlisted the help of Champion Hamilton to shoot some photos of our team. The shoot took place in Long Island City at the Avalon. With stunning NYC skyline and water views, it proved to be the perfect backdrop. Champion took the lead and put together a team that consisted of Renee Baptiste, Make-up artist, Joan Max Reinmuth Design who provided stunning jewelry and Iliana Quander who provided one of a kind couture pieces from her collection. The day could not have been more perfect. Renee, through a brief Q&A, was able to create a look that was simple, elegant and fresh. What a metamorphosis! It was right on point as it not only satisfied my need to not look too made-up but just enough to grace the pages. Iliana picked the pieces that I wore but she allowed me to chime in and give feedback, which immediately made me feel at ease. I was honored to be able to showcase her collection and to also move out of my comfort zone and try something different. Joan’s passion for her pieces, made from recyclable materials, was contagious. Each piece was complimentary to the wardrobe. It was the icing on the cake – I felt very pulled together. Thanks guys. The magazine is not all about bringing you features and providing an additional platform for promotions for our clients and other artists. It is also about celebrating the people that we could not have done it without along the way. To me, that is the most important. Thanks to all those who are making this process possible, your love and support of this project is a blessing. Until next time, stay focused!

Stacey Bethel Your Editor-in-Chief

ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Triple The Focus is a Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle E-Magazine that gives the reggae music fraternity another platform to gain visibility and connect with fans in a not so typical fashion. With behind the scenes photos, exclusive personal interviews and of course the job they love, we’ll give them the opportunity to express what’s going on in their lives. For more information, please email triplethefocus@gmail.com

CONTACT

Email: triplethefocus@gmail.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US) | 876-475-5841 (JA) 5

Art & Content Director’s Note BRANDED FOCUS Fresh from the premiere issue, it is clear that readers are enjoying Triple the Focus. It’s a great feeling to know that we are contributing to the Caribbean and breaking the mold by doing something a little different. The pressure is on to keep giving our readers more! I, myself got to learn a lot about the team through our Meet The Team feature. Working with a close knit team remotely can sometimes leave a disconnect, however that is not the case here. It’s a pleasure to working with talented individuals who bring their “A” game continuously. Speaking of “A” game, the artists featured in this issue are definitely bringing the best of themselves to their fans around the world. What Ce’Cile, Protoje, Tifa and DJ Karyzma have in common is that they are all embracing the digital platforms, including our e-magazine, to maintain a brand and increase connectivity to their fans. Branding their “A” game globally and maintaining a relevant presence is important to their continuous growth as artists representing the region on a global playing field. Triple the Focus strives to give you an inside peek to their lives (and ours as well) so they don’t seem so mystical. A clean layout allowing for an easy read is the direction we’re going for; leaving our readers wanting more with each issue. We know the world is intensely stimulated by visuals, so through inviting photography and graphics we will continue to bring you creative content and amazing layouts with a branded Focus!

Mikelah Rose

Your Art & Content Director

MEET THE TEAM STACEY BETHEL Editor

Full Name: Stacey Avonie Bethel, nee Williams Nickname: I kinda have a few. Friends call me “Stace,” my Bestfriend calls be “B” and my parents call me “Mina.” What’s on repeat on your iPod: Wow a few things. Namely music by Delus, Keida, I-Octane and Third World. Celebrity looklike: Some people say I look like Stacey Dash and others say Holly Robinson Peete. I feel sexy when: I am wearing super high heels. The higher the better. I unwind by: Drinking a glass of wine. . .yummy! Pet Peeve: Grammatical errors! I hate reading something that has a ton of mistakes. It drives me nuts!!! My idea of a great vacation: Beach, beach, beach. I am a beach bum. Favorite Book: Wowzers! I have a few. Let’s see, “The Bluest Eyes” by Toni Morrison. Any book by Toni Morrison really. “Cane River” by Lalita Tademy, “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett, “Kindred” by Octavia Butler, “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe and lots more. I love to read. My artists of the moment: Delus is doing really well and I am proud of his work product. So I am going to say Delus for those reasons. It takes two! Spousal support system: It takes a village actually! I have a really strong support system period! My family, friends - they all keep me sane. Weekend flow: Work, chores, work, and more work. When I break, I dine out, go to the movies. On rare occasions, I go to the Vineyards in the Hamptons.

MICHELLE GAYLE Publicist

Full Name: Michelle Antoinette Gayle Nickname: Michiphoo What’s on repeat on your iPod: If I had one it would be “We Fall Down” by Donnie McClurkin Celebrity looklike: Oh how I wish I could say Halle Berry... and get away with it lol. I feel sexy when: I’m most comfortable with what I’m wearing I unwind by: Making sure to indulge in my woosah-carefree moments. Pet Peeve: When people don’t return calls or emails. If you say you are going to do it, just do it! My idea of a great vacation: Anywhere there is sand, sea, quiet moments and a well stocked bar... jus luv em umbrella drinks. Favorite Book: Would have to be the entire last series I read recently from Christine Feehan’s “Ghost Walker” novels. My artists of the moment: Always at any moment Tanya Stephens. It takes two! Spousal support system: I have a very supportive boyfriend which makes life easier. Weekend flow: Flowing out of bed to market/supermarket, doing chores and right back into bed after I’m dead tired. Mundane stuff. 8

MEET THE TEAM MIKELAH ROSE

Art & Content Director Full Name: Mikelah Rose Nickname: Miki What’s on repeat on your iPod: Anything by Michael Jackson. Celebrity lookalike: Someone once told me I look like Mya. I feel sexy when: I wear a nice pair of heels or after a great workout - Yoga pants make the glutes look fab! I unwind by: Having a glass of wine. Pet Peeve: Too many! My idea of a great vacation: Anywhere I can get a way to enjoy family. Good laughs, great food Favorite Book: “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston My artists of the moment: Tifa, Melanie Fiona, Estelle...all about the ladies! It takes two! Spousal support system: My boyfriend is supportive of my crazy schedule. Weekend flow: Family first. All about spending time with my little one!

VICTOR E. LEWIS Creative Director

Full Name: Victor E. Lewis Nickname: The Architect What’s on repeat on your iPod: Jah Shaka - Commandments of Dub - Verse 7 Celebrity lookalike: No sure! I feel sexy when: When I’ve completed a task or project that most people would think that it’s impossible and watching people enjoy the rewards. I unwind by: Watching movies and not answering the phone. Pet Peeve: Lack of customer service. I don’t like when people are rude to clients My idea of a great vacation: Being home in Montserrat for the Christmas season Favorite Book: Don’t have a favorite book, but favorite types of book to read are anything about travel and history. Currently reading “In Patagonia” by Bruce Chatwin My artists of the moment: Whatever my eight year old is listening to. Right now it is Big Time Rush & China Anne McClain It takes two! Spousal support system: Marlene Peat of Petals Exclusive takes care of my precious gem Vinahya and keeps things balanced. Weekend flow: Never the same...where the job takes me!! 9

Reggae’s New Protoje Foundation for the next generation by Snow McCullen True to his name, Protoje is one whose career is furthered by the experiences and influences of those who precede him. His music is deeply rooted in the soul of the 1960s, defiance of the roots Reggae of the early 1970s, and the rub-a-dub styled Dancehall of the 1980s. Part Bob Marley, part Bob Dylan, and part Supercat, Protoje is the prototype of the current decade’s breed of Reggae artist – a nontraditional blend of Reggae’s musical traditions and influences. His debut album, 7 Year Itch, landed in the Billboard Top 20 earlier in 2011, topping off a year marked by worldwide performances - sharing the stage with Kymani Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear, and other members of Reggae’s royal network. You can trace Oje “Protoje” Ollivierre musical lineage to his mother Lorna Bennett, best known for her cover of Dusty Springfield’s “Breakfast in Bed.” Protoje is also the cousin of award-winning Billboard producer Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett, best known for producing “Give It Up to Me” by Sean Paul and Keyshia Cole, and who also produced 7 Year Itch. With singles like “Rasta Love” with Kymani Marley, and “No Lipstick,” and the title track “The Seven Year Itch” burning up airwaves around the world, it isn’t hard to imagine why Triple the Focus was eager to sit down with Protoje for a one on one. Start by telling me, who is Protoje? Well Protoje is a soul trying to navigate himself through this existence using music as the way to communicate with the other souls met along this journey. 12

What’s different or unique about you as a reggae artist? I try to be authentic to who it is I am and to report my experiences the way I interpret them, which to me has to make me unique. Why reggae and not dancehall? They are both Jamaican music you know. There is dancehall in my music in my style it is in there. Reggae just brings out a feeling that I am more in tune with so I go with it. Reggae is the foundation. What do you think you have to offer reggae lovers around the world? Well mainly the message. Reggae is Rastafari music is H.I.M music. As I have been growing it has become clearer and clearer to me so I am just trying to keep my senses open to more inspiration. Musically, I am trying to bring a different sound. My background is unique so I want to display that on stage. Do you think you have crossover appeal? Well I don’t know what that entails - people have crossover success by a lot of different means. Peace and Love and Truth is universal so once you talking that there is always a chance for your music to catch on, even though that is not what the powers that be really want to push. How are you working to make sure your music has staying power? It’s all about the content you know. People don’t want to hear frivolous arguments over and over. They may be into it for a little while but if it is not carrying the meaning and the feeling they are going to get tired of it and spit it out like stale bubblegum.

What are your thoughts about the current state of reggae music? Reggae is bright right now, a lot of underground artist are on the rise. Jah9, Raging Fyah, Chronixx, Kabaka Pyramid, Da Professor a lot of talent is on the rise so it’s an exciting time to be a part of this movement and play my part. It’s a cycle you know and the Uprising is on us. How do you stay grounded? My mother always told me that as I come off stage I should remind myself of reality. I understand that I have had a lot of success but at the same time my journey has just started when you scale a mountain find another and go for it. Do you write your own lyrics? If so, where do you draw inspiration? Yes I write my own lyrics that is my passion. If you pay attention inspiration is all around you. Breathing is inspiration. I read also so it opens up the creative flow. I love your songs “Dread” and “Rasta Love.” Talk about the concept of the singles and the videos. The concept of Rasta Love is about a young woman empowering herself to search for what she wants. If you listen to that song it’s not about the Rasta man that she likes is changing her. It is that she is going through changes and he is just one of the things she is exploring. Dread is about me being a young boy wanting to grow up and do music and what I would see around me. Being dread is like being is awe of something. So many people think that sound is about locks. Just shows you that once I write and release something it’s no longer yours not even the meaning is yours anymore.

tive. I have recently started spending more time on the beach. Free time is not a luxury I have had the opportunity of having a lot lately. How do you balance your personal life and work? It is a process, as I said I don’t think I have been giving a lot of time to the personal aspect of it, so it is very important to not dedicate too much time to music and neglect self. FREEESTYLE. Plug anything you would like, talk about upcoming projects, Social Media pages, contact Protoje, etc. . . .GO. Bless up to The Indiggnation the band that keeps my music fresh delivering it to the people. Don Corleon, who produced my first album, and I are planning to make a Dub Version of the Seven Year Itch so I am well excited for that. You can definitely check out everything that’s happening on my website www.protoje.com where you can also find a FREE DOWNLOAD of my new mixtape mixed by Yaadcore who is also my official DJ. Facebook.com/Protoje Twitter.com/Protoje Vimeo.com/Protoje

Do you see yourself as a brand? And if so, how are you working to build that brand? Once it is you are selling something you become a brand in some sense. I try not to limit my scope to music. I try to incorporate a lot of art, spoken word, unite with other artists from different fields to help to present the music to the people. Slow and steady is the process I like, so let’s see what happens over time. Other than music, do you plan to try your hand at anything else? Yes naturally, but I am not fully ready to speak on my ventures. Alot of stuff are in the plans but one step at a time. Patience is something I have learned doing music and especially now is a time to exercise that patience. I saw you in Europe over the summer while I was on tour with Third World. Talk about your tour and how you were received. Yeah I did see Third World on a couple stops. Touring is a lot of hard work, being on stage is what makes it worth it. I was very surprised that people knew my music and able to sing them line for line, so I give thanks. I cannot wait to go on tour with my band, The Indiggnation. That’s when you really see me in my zone. When you have free time, how do you unwind and relax? I am learning new hobbies people say I have no social life. I like to read and jog and keep my mind ac-

DJ KARYZMA PRESENTS “PEDAL TO THE METAL” by Shantell ‘Shanz’ Hill DJ Karyzma is often referred to as “Uptown’s Finest” and more recently the “DJ Drama of Jamaica,” both titles he humbly rejects. Over the past four years, not only has his name been a staple on the Jamaican calendar of social events, he is also a resident DJ at one of Kingston’s hottest spots Club Privilege. A business management major at the University of Technology in Kingston Jamaica, at only 24 years of age, he has managed to ascertain the respect of not only promoters locally but internationally as well. His professionalism and diverse musical offerings has been described as “an experience” by patrons of all cultures, age groups, classes, creed and social strata.

creative of the usage of the State Farm advertisement “Like a good neighbor State Farm is there!”

On October 14, 2011, social networks had an invasion like never before when at approximately 11:45 am, DJ Karyzma was busy flooding Facebook and Twitter with an authentic promotional video teaser, produced by RD Studios, for his third official mix tape, “Pedal To The Metal.” This simple yet effective PR tool enhanced and increased the eagerness and anticipation of what was to come. The video featured DJ Karyzma and Creep Matic of Chromatic Sound System, toiling the night away throughout the busy streets of Kingston in preparation for the release of the mix tape. This visual expression of dedication struck a chord with fans and as a result the anticipation of the mix tape climaxed.

Twitter.com/djkaryzma, Facebook.com/KaryzmaTheDj For booking inquiries email DjKaryzma.Bookings@gmail.com or call StacyAnn Neilson at 876-564-6744.

The hour might have seemed the longest for ardent Karyzma fans as they frequently requested links to be posted hastily. He however, caused no need for grieve as on the hour as promised DJ Karymza released the links of both Tracked and Untracked versions of the 2011 mix...... and yes the feedback started to roll in within minutes after its release. Fans and fellow industry players such as media representatives, disc jocks and artist managers offered their congratulations towards the success of the project, the quality of the mixes, as well as the effortless presentation of the respective genres and sampling. One fan found it extremely 14

The mix, unsuspecting to fans, was predominantly Hip Hop and Pop with a smooth transition into current dancehall newbies and hits, complimented by very tasteful artist testaments from, Tony Matterhorn, Chan Dizzy, Serani, Shanz, Biggy (Razz & Biggy), Supa Hype, Chi Chi Ching, Nico Matic, DJ Kruddy and Badgyal Ce’Cile. “Pedal to the Metal,” which I have given 4 stars, has proven and surpassed the hype created by its marketing minds and as such every music fan should either request a copy of the physical mix or access the links online.

She’s a Bad Mama Jama!

WITH THE RELEASE OF NEW ALBUM, JAMAICANIZATION, “BADGYAL” CE’CILE TALKS LIFE, LOVE AND CAREER by Stacey Bethel Describe Ce’Cile in one word? She is multifaceted, a woman of many layers. She is feminine, confident, talented, sexy, shy but bold at the same time – if that makes sense. She has the ability to make people around her feel at ease – something that comes naturally. For me being down-to-earth and approachable is all I know. I don’t know how to be any other way. I like people (when I am in public spaces) but I hate my private life being invaded. But I prayed for fame and it comes with it so I gladly accept it and work around it. Connecting with my fans is fun for me they have so many people to choose from so I appreciate it. Another attribute, she is brutally honest. Not one to shy away from controversy, she deals with issues head on and is very clever in doing so. She’ll be the last person to give into rumors but knows how to play it to her advantage – I love that about her. When asked, if her stage persona is different than Cecile the person? She replies, Yes in a way it is, obviously I don’t plaster my real life on stage, I plan everything I say that may be close to my personal life, I am very strategic that way, and I like to lead the bloggers and gossip people on, lead it to my advantage, so in a nutshell yes its different. Her bio states, “It’s her flair for controversy that has kept media and fans alike tuned in whether she flows over traditional Reggae beats or hits homeruns with pulsating Dancehall riddims.” Yea that sounds about right. With a very successful career, Ce’cile is quiet aware that she has to constantly stay on top of her game. And what does she attribute that staying power to? Reinventing myself, always remembering I am singing for the fans and not only to myself, maintain my girl power status and songs, never thinking I am bigger than the music so the more successful I seem to become the harder I work.

With these lyrics, “you looking kinda cute boy but can you do di wuk” I became an instant Ce’cile fan. That was about 2002 but long before that, the refreshingly outspoken dancehall singer turned heads – making men sit up and take notice and women cheering for her every step of the way. Fast forward to 2010, Ce’cile’s clever lyrics are still topping the charts. Your single “Coffee” is very clever. I am sure true Cecile fans know you are not really talking about coffee. How did

you come up with the concept for that song? On a plane, flight attendant asked how I wanted my coffee, and I thought black like how I liked my men, turns out there was a song about that already, Kool Face the producer told me when I went to him with the idea, it flew still, and of course not it wasn’t “coffee” coffee. But she is more than an artist with scintillating and spitfire lyrics. She is a woman with interests outside of music.

Is it or has it been hard to find a man that is not intimidated by you? Yes, yes and yes. Are you in love? Yea, who isn’t? Dating or single? Singly dating. Do you cook? learning.

Yes, and still

Do you see yourself as a sexy symbol? Yes, I hope so, sexy is good, sexy classy is good.

You are very beautiful. What is your beauty regimen? I try to look as best as I can, they say sleep and water, obviously I try for the water as much as I can.

What is one thing that people be surprised to know about you? I can’t swim, I am shy, I don’t go out a lot on a personal level.

Do you workout? Yes, have a personal trainer Juliet Cuthbert, she keeps me in shape as much as possible.

The man who dates Cecile must have what qualities? List 5 non-negotiable. Truth, humility, brain and class.

Back to business! What’s new with Ce’Cile? My new album Jamaicanization is currently on Itunes. There is also an app

now available for Iphone and Android users. Fans can check also check out my webpage at www. jamaicanization.com.

ABOUT JAMAICANIZATION **Contributed**

With her new album “JAMAICANIZATION,” Ce’Cile again delivers a balanced musical meal with a mixture of soundmen MC’d intro’s and appetizer interludes, warms up your palate with one-drop reggae tracks and gives you the main course over upbeat dancehall with bold dance floor hits as your desert. The entire album leaves you with the sense you’ve tasted a full plate of Jamaican culture. Out of the 16 songs that comprise this album, 13 tracks are exclusive to the album - a departure from the normal Dancehall Reggae albums. German’s top urban producer, Ben Bazzazian produced 9 tracks on the album which is monumental for a Dancehall Reggae artist. Kicking off the album with the song “Where You Want Me” immediately demonstrates a softer Ce’Cile and is one of the tracks produced by Francis de Lima and Courtney Louis with the vocal arrangement and production by Ce’Cile herself. “When Your Gone” recorded with producer Chrome over a beat created by Christopher Birch (credit’s include Shaggy’s HOT SHOT album), is laced over a one-drop foundation that is beautifully delivered, a message resonating with all women who have wistfully falling for someone and either lost them or found them with someone else. The song connects so much with women worldwide; it’s one of her biggest songs in Kenya, Africa. In “Singing This Song” the first single from the album, this songstress portrays herself as a spoiled, pushy and almost unmanageable woman who has found the man that makes her act right and is down for him and vice versa. “Hey” featuring Dancehall’s lyricist Agent Sasco (formerly known as Assassin) is a sexy, upbeat and energetic song with a slight rub a dub vibe that immediately has you echoing “Hey!” Ce’Cile states what women want to say after a breakup in the song “Woot Woot.” Recorded with Chrome, the Smoking riddim was built by esteemed Jamaican beatmaker Stephen McGregor, the song puts a new spin on an old school style, “Woot Woot” is a an undeniable gyal’s anthem with lyrics like; “Where my ex-boyfriend at? See how me phat? Can’t done, Can’t done.” “Nah Stress Over Man” is a club hit recorded with producer Tony “CD” Kelly and artist/producer Shaggy for Big Yard Studios, Ce’Cile joined a cast of heavyweights on this riddim track. “Nah Stress Over Man” has been a DJ favorite and one everyone cues up. Ce’Cile’s song “Step Aside (Sound Man Tune)” is a hard gritty dancehall beat that thumps its powerful beats out the speakers whether on your home stereo, in the car or club in her personal ode to soundmen worldwide. “Wicked N Wild” with Million Stylez mimics’ an old school dancehall flavor with a new school twist, which was recorded with Europe’s most in demand and talented DJ Teddy-O. “Up On Di Dance Floor (Gal Wine Up)” is a slight musical departure from the current sound of Dancehall as it incorporates elements currently popular in the dance music circuit that blend seamlessly resulting in a commercial track appealing to the masses. “Want More” is a high energy, ska influenced track that gets your body instantly moving. This one is a banger!

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AT ALL COST TIFA’S STEADY CLIMB TO STARDOM! by Stacey Bethel

I’ll be the first to admit that until one of my trips to Jamaica in early 2010, I had no idea who Tifa was. Not that she was a new artist, she’s been on the scene since 2005, I was just out of the loop for whatever reason. We met when my friends Latoya Tulloch, then producer for Hype TV and Shanz Hill, then publicist for Scikron Entertainment/Big Yard, took me to East Japanese Anniversary party in Kingston. Cecile, who is also featured in this month’s issue, was also with us or we were with her, depending on how you look at it, I think it was the latter. Shanz , “Stacey, this is Tifa and Tifa this is Stacey – CEO of Triple 7 Entertainment and publicist for Third World Band and manager/publicist for Delus.” I hate when she introduces me like that. I think the only thing missing from that introduction was my bra and shoe size. I am simple – just say this is Stacey Bethel. But as Shanz often says when I object to such a detailed intro, “you have to brand your Company. People need to know that you are the force behind Triple 7.” I now agree but still cringe when it’s done. Moving on. . . with exchanged pleasantries we parted ways. Enough time didn’t elapse before I asked, “Shanz, who is Tifa?” I don’t need to explain the where on earth have you been look that Shanz gave me but that’s what I got. I watched her throughout the night, not in a stalker way but I couldn’t believe that this seemingly shy person was a dancehall artist. There was just something about her that stood out in my mind long after that meeting. I like her. Tifa is not only gorgeous but she has this shy little girl persona about her that disappears when she performs on stage - I still can’t get over how much she transforms. She has a very non-abrasive presence but very un20

forgettable. I still don’t see her as a young dancehall diva. To me, she is more like a little sister I want to protect. But in looking at her catalog of singles, I am reminded that she is indeed a big girl running with the big dogs. Tifa’s chart toppings hits include, “Crawny Gal,” “Bottom of the Barrel,” “If I Could Fly,” “Swaggin” and “Get Flat.” She has received numerous accolades such as Excellence in Music & Entertainment award for Most Improved Artist, Stone Love award for Best New Artist, the Youth View Awards - two year running - for Female DJ of the Year, Best Female Artist and Young Hot & Hype Female of the Year. In addition to numerous awards and successful singles, Tifa was signed as Brand Ambassador for Digicel and most recently, Nuvo Sparkling Liqueur. Navigating the reggae arena is no easy feat especially for female artists but Tifa is proving that she is well equipped for the challenge and is poised for even greater things. In an exclusive interview, this fresh faced girl next door talks about her future and then some. Hi Tifa! How long have you been doing music? I’ve been doing music professionally for the past 6 years. Besides that, I’ve been doing this forever – singing on choirs and performing with arts groups, you name it. Why dancehall? I’m Jamaican so it is my roots and my culture. Who are some of the artists that you have worked with? I have worked with Ward 21, Tami Chynn, Wayne Marshall, Future Fambo, Natalie Storm, TOK and ZJ Liquid. I know this is probably putting you on the spot but who do you enjoy working with the most? I honestly don’t have a favorite. Every experience is unique and fun! It’s always a crazy vibe when I get into the studio. How do you think you stack up among other female dancehall artists? I don’t know. How do I? Hahaha! I’ve never thought about it and I don’t want to start. I just do me and it seems to be working out just fine. Do you write your own songs? Yes I write my own songs.

Where do you draw inspiration? Life gives me inspiration. However I love writing from a woman’s point of view. Love drawing inspiration from my sisters of life. I’m not a one sided writer but I love giving females a voice because I don’t think we have enough of that.

“I want to be the female Shaggy or Sean Paul. Or maybe even surpass that if God permits.” Your stepfather is a producer. How has that helped your career? Not that much, it wasn’t something I overly advertised coming into the business. I wanted to make my own mark and not have it being said that it was because of my affiliations why I am where I’m at. However he has bestowed his knowledge of the business on me.

FREEESTYLE. Plug anything you would like, talk about upcoming projects, Social Media pages, contact Tifa, etc. . . .GO. Look out for more new music – hot collabs and singles. I am also coming out with a dancehall symphony! I am also doing a medley video for singles “Dash Out” on the Over proof riddim and “Matie Whine” on the Contra Riddim. I’m going to be a judge on the new talent reality show called On the Verge, with other hosts Cecile and Dexter 3D Pottinger. I am having a big Pink and White birthday Beach Bash Dec. 11, 2011 at Sugar Mans Beach in Jamaica. You don’t want to miss it! It’s going to be big. My single “Swagin” with Wayne Marshal & Future Fambo was #1 in Jamaica and UK and has hit other charts worldwide including MTV Base Africa. The matrimony medley video also hit the charts. Twitter.com/tifamusic Facebook.com/tifa.brown Myspace.com/tifamusiq

What was it like growing up in a musical household? Fun! I got to meet a lot of celebs and entertainment personalities growing up. As well as I always had access to music since my mom, uncle and stepfather had record stores, so I always had the latest CDs etc. You recently signed an endorsement deal with Nuvo. How did that happen? The deal occurred through the Good Thyme Click/Maxamedia Music group who I have been doing some music with. They introduced my music, music videos and Tifa in general to the people at Nuvo and the rest was history. Any other endorsements in the works? I am also a Brand Ambassador for Jamaican telecommunications giant, Digicel. Outside of music, is there anything you would like to dabble in? Well, I have a degree in Psychology and Human Resource Management, so that’s an option. I also love fashion and hairstyling, would love to open a boutique and/or a salon. I also want to dabble in real estate. Any plans to put out an album? Yes I plan on putting out an album early next year. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully an International Superstar! I want to be the female Shaggy or Sean Paul. Or maybe even surpass that if God permits. 21

Sa Ka Fete!

St. Lucia

Sa Ka Fete is a standard greeting for the people of St. Lucia. The creole term means “What’s Happening.” And while the first thing that people think about when they hear St. Lucia is the volcano, the Piton Mountains, natural waterfalls and breathtaking views, I am here to add one more thing to the list, Jalousie Plantation. And that’s “What’s Happening!” I don’t know about you but part of the reason why I love traveling so much is because I love hotels, especially really great ones. For the longest time, on my personal travels, I would always stay at the Ritz Carlton. It still remains one of my favorite hotels because of the service, the décor, the food and cleanliness. I have not given up the Ritz, I have simply added Jalousie Plantation to my top 5 list. It is the true embodiment of luxury. Smacked between the Gros Piton and the Petit Piton, the Sugar Bay resort offers serenity, first class dining, views of the ocean and the mountains and white sand beach. My stay at the resort, though brief, has left an indelible impression that will forever stay with me. Here is why. Picture it (in my best Sophia Petrillo – Golden Girls – voice) New England cottage in the Caribbean with Pottery Barn styled furniture, rich espresso flooring, high ceilings with fans, Caribbean artwork, indigenous flowers, marble counter tops with double sinks in the bathroom, claw foot tub, Travertine tiled jetted shower, walk-in closet and four poster king sized bed with mosquito net. 22

But wait, that’s not it, there is more. Each cottage has its own private swimming pool and some with outdoor shower. The property is filled with palm trees and flowers of varying colors and scape. Where is the luxury you may ask? Next to the telephone is the extension of your personal butler. But sans Jeffery, the staff caters to your every need, something they make perfectly clear upon check-in. But don’t just take my word for it. Travel and Leisure “World’s Best Awards 2011” featured in Caribbean’s World Best Debut and Top 10 Resort in the Caribbean by Conde Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. Still not sold? Take a look at the pictures I took of my cottage and I guarantee you will be dreaming about Jalousie Plantation for days. For more information, visit their website at www.jalousieplantation.com.

Creative Director’s Note THANKSGIVING Here we are, Issue #2 and we couldn’t be more overjoyed. Why? For one, the response we received was exceptional and for that we are truly grateful. As we worked tirelessly to bring you the November issue, I couldn’t help but thing how perfect it was that it will be released right before Thanksgiving. This I believe is one of the reasons I am feeling even more energized, creative and very thankful. But I am sure you have asked this one very question, how many ways can one tell a story? Well here is the answer - creatively! This we hope to tackle in a variety of ways. Not only will our readers get an opportunity to peek into the lives of their favorite artists through our interviews but our staff has agreed to share their lives and experiences as well. Such is the case with our “Meet The Team” Feature and our Editor-In-Chief’ photos from her recent trip to St. Lucia. With the selection of hundreds of photos we are also able to innovatively capture and illustrate the various feelings of our artist, e.g. Third World Band on stage. These elements combined, forms “the stories” and unique prospective that we hope you will enjoy. We have a lot we would like to share and hope you embrace what we have to offer. Thanks again for your support of Triple The Focus premiere issue and we are looking forward to your continued support and feedback. Please continue to write and share your thoughts with us at triplethefocus@ gmail.com. Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. Until next month “Focus” and think “Creatively.”

Vic Rae

Your Creative Director