Contents Issue 11| August 2012
FEATURES 10
Cedella Marley Translates Pride of Jamaica in Fashion
13
Captain Collin Hines The X-Mixer
15
Meet Actor Michael Cardoza
23
Patriotically Beautiful
26
Going for Gold A Look at Jamaica’s Elite Five For the 2012 Olympics in London
32
drennaLuna: Jamaica Celebrates 50 Years of Independence
38
Dancehall Welcomes Q-Ban
40
Reggae Summfest
17
Edward Seaga “America wasn’t totally ready
for Jamaican music yet at that time, but you could see there was an interest sparked.”
COVER PHOTO CREDIT: Contributed ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDIT: RD Studios
Editor’s Note OUT OF MANY, ONE PEOPLE
The third largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica is comprised of persons with African, Irish, Indian, Chinese, Lebanese, Syrian, English, Scottish and German descent. Race aside, we all claim one very important title, Jamaicans. This is by far the true gist of our motto, “Out of Many, One People.” Jamaicanborn journalist George Graham said it best when he wrote “We might look European or African, Chinese or Indian, Jewish or Syrian, but make no mistake: we are Jamaican. We share the indomitable pride, the intolerance of injustice, the irrepressible spirit that distinguishes Jamaicans wherever in the world our destiny sends us.” It is that indomitable pride that has me feeling Jamaica proud today, August 6, 2012 as it marks Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary. Not only am I celebrating the independence of the land of my birth, I am also celebrating the fact that this past weekend Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce and Usain Bolt won the gold in the 100 meter at the Olympics. Jamaica is home to the fastest man and woman in the world. Wow, talk about monumental! To have our Anniversary coincide with the Olympics could not have been better timing. And so to celebrate the land of my birth, I dedicate our August issue with the Honorable Edward Seaga on the cover and features to include Jamaica’s elite athletes, reggae royalty in the person of Cedella Marley, drennaLUNA, DJ Collin Hines, model Michael Cardoza, rising star Q-Ban, photos from Reggae Sumfest and beauty feature by Lauren Dunn.
Stacey Bethel
Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@TripleTheFocus.com
Issue 11| August 2012
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STACEY BETHEL Editor in Chief Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE Public Relations: MICHELLE GAYLE Business Relations: NATASHA P. DUNN Photographers: CHAMPION HAMILTON | AJAMU MYRIE Graphic Designer: RUPTION DESIGN STUDIOS Beauty: RENEE BAPTISTE | KRYSTLE KAREE MAKE-UP Contributing Writers
Shantell “Shanz” Hill Jody-Ann Williams Stephen “Cat” Coore Rev. Dr. M. Frances Manning-Fontaine Raine Martin Malaika Lepine
ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Triple the Focus is a Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle E-Magazine published monthly. Released October 5, 2011, the goal of the E-zine is to provide a platform for industry insiders that will assist in connecting them with their fans on a more personal level. With behind the scenes photos, exclusive interviews, fashion and lifestyle tidbits, Triple the Focus is the brainchild of Triple 7 Entertainment LLC’s, a PR firm, CEO Stacey Bethel (nee Williams), who serves as Editor in Chief of the Magazine. Creative Director, Victor E. Lewis is the CEO of VicRae, Inc. whose clients include Actor, Leon, Third World Band, Jadine – Soca Diva and more. Art & Content Director, Mikelah Rose has worked for JAMROCK Magazine, VP Records, TEMPO Networks and has her own blog, Style & Vibes. For more information, email info@ triplethefocus.com.
CONTACT
Email: Info@triplethefocus.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US) 876-475-5841 (JA)
Follow us: @TRIPLETHEFOCUS Issue 11 | August 2012
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Art & Content Director’s Note Happy 50th Jamaica: Salute, Reflect & Celebrate Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence is a joyous occasion for fun, but also a time to reflect how far Jamaica has come and investing back in the island to reach its maximum potential. The positives of a rich culture certainly out weigh the negatives, but the negative cannot be swept under the rug as the good and bad have a place in history in shaping its culture. Celebrations have been on the minds of many for months (for some over a year) and it is a culmination of how proud we are of our people! Yes, I was not born in Jamaica, but the blood runs deep so I salute my yardies from “farrin” as Triple the Focus dedicates this issue to none other than Jam-down. Unbeknownst to the “naïve yankee gal” I had no idea cover gent and former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Honourable Edward Seaga was in the music business! Reading and learning about his involvement in Jamaica’s Pop Culture was extremely interesting. The nerd in me did an anthropology project about the music (I did an anthropology project on Dancehall in college). Although Jamaicans are always proud of their heritage, patriotism is at an all time high globally, especially with the 2012 London Olympics. 50th Anniversary celebrations in various forms of parties, shows and a few bashment BBQs whether you are in Negril or celebrating yard from abroad style, it’s all about one people! With this issue not only do we celebrate Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence, but we also rejoice in our vibrant culture through fashion - Drenna Luna’s look at Jamaica through the decades, beauty – Lauren’s patriotic make-up tutorial, and of course music – Q-Ban and Captain Collin Hines are heating things in dancehall. We also take a look at fan favorite Olympic attendees from Jamaica, Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, Asafa Powell, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Veronica Campbell Brown. Not to mention we got an exclusive with Cedella Marley fresh from designing the uniforms for Jamaica’s Track & Field team for London Olympic! This issue is pack with all things Jamaican after all … “No Weh Nuh Betta Dan Yard!!!” How are you celebrating? We know our readers are having Triple the fun this time around!
Mikelah Rose
Your Art & Content Director
ArtDirector@TripleTheFocus.com
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CEDELLA MARLEY TRANSLATES PRIDE OF JAMAICA IN FASHION By Malaika Lepine It is a great year for Jamaica, not only to celebrate its 50th year of independence, but also the pride of the country that will be represented at the 2012 Olympics in London. The international media such as Time Magazine and other publications have unofficially awarded the gold medal of fashion to Team Jamaica. The responsible designer who was able to translate the pride of Jamaica came from Reggae’s Royal family in the person of, Cedella Marley. Cedella worked with Puma to create an Olympic kit that incorporated the black, green and yellow of the Jamaican flag and featured images of her late legendary father Bob Marley and a stylized leaf print. Though extremely busy, Cedella took time out to answer questions about this very important topic, “why fashion as oppose to music.”
What does fashion mean to you? Does fashion relate to music and if so how? Fashion should be fun; it should be a way for people to express themselves. Fashion and music somehow are always intertwined as it complements each other. I remember when Boy George first came out, I had to have that oversized white shirt and the black hat. Same with Madonna What does designing for the Jamaica Olympic team mean to you? There is a very deep pride in being a Jamaican and being the one who designs the uniforms only deepens that pride.
Coming from a musical family, how did you become interested in fashion? My Grand Aunt was a seamstress and she inspired me. She use to make costumes for my mom and her group The Soulettes and she designed wedding gowns so I grew up around a sewing machine. What was your first design? Sewing for the Melody Makers, my background in fashion design is purely by accident. Touring with my family as part of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, I wanted everyone to stand out. We had the name and we had the music but I also knew we needed to bring something different to reggae. So I started to deconstruct different pieces and refashion them into outfits we’d wear on stage and for promotional appearances. I realized I had a knack for it and ultimately a passion. Do you think that your last name holds too much weight and that people except too much from you? It is the only name I know and I think I expect a lot from myself not because of people’s expectation but more of what I expect from myself. I am an overachiever.
How did you get your inspiration both for that Olympic line and in your design in general? From several elements, Mom, Dad, 1970’s-80’s reggae, a little Rock and Roll, Pat Benatar, Grace Jones and our African Culture.
What is your first fashion memory? Having my auntie teach me how to sew and crochet. What is your fashion inspiration? As a designer I draw inspiration from music, various cultures, patterns, Jamaican “style-lele” of the 70’s and 80’s, rebellion and even architecture. I love lines, angles and texture. The feel of Vintage and Modern fabrics blended, bringing together the old and the new while protecting Mother earth. I’d have to say two of my muses have been Mom and Dad. Do you think that a Caribbean fashion designer can become a household name such as Yves Saint Laurent and can show at Paris fashion week? Of course. Remain focus. Besides fashion, do you have any other aspirations? I am one of the business heads of our family and have assumed overseeing The Bob Marley Foundation and The House of Marley, our merchandising conglomerate which includes Zion Rootswear, Catch A Fire and High Tides which is my new swimsuit line launched this year. I’m also managing Marley and Company, a family entity that manages the image/likeness rights
of my Dad, Bob Marley. I am also the CEO of Tuff Gong International, the record label Dad launched in 1965. In between, I’ve published a few children’s books “Boy From Nine Miles,” “One Love” and “Three Little Birds” and I continue to record music. Oh yeah, I’m also raising three sons. I’ve got my hands full but my appetite for more is undiminished. Also currently overseeing our newest endeavor, 1Love.org What is your biggest disappointment in regards to fashion and the Caribbean? It is not taken seriously Do you feel that the support is there for Caribbean fashion? Yes but most of the outfits are bought overseas. We often see in dancehall men and women that will spend thousands on outfits but might not support their counterpart the same, why is that in your eyes? Trend Was your father fashion oriented; is your family into fashion? Most definitely and he did it effortlessly. No one rocked denim on denim like Bob Marley! It is in our DNA. What is your life motto? Live your life without apologies.
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CAPTAIN COLLIN HINES THE X-MIXER
By Shantell “Shanz” Hill
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade is the most potent axiom ever quoted to teacher turned disc jockey, Collin Hines a.k.a. the Captain (The X-Mixer). The discovery of his uncanny relationship with the music business began during his teen/High School years at Munro College, when record purchases piqued his interest in learning the essential details of an album. This obsession later blossomed into a passion in the latter part of the 80s and the beginning of the early 90s. Though considered an icon in the industry today and transforms events wherever he spins, the captain of radio is very much, by my opinion, one of the most humble DJs I have ever met. Born in Alligator Pond, Collin became actively involved in the music fraternity during his studies at the Caribbean Institute of Media and Communications (CARIMAC) at the University of the West Indies, Mona. He began to hone his DJ skills with stints on Infinity and Secret Service sound systems. In fact, Hines credits the UWI connection as an instrumental launching pad for the natural progression that ensued. An avid FAME FM (Jamaica’s leading radio station) listener, Collin would immerse himself in the music and soon became fascinated by listening to the mixed show DJ radio format. It came as no surprise in 1994 when the former Knox College teacher landed a job at FAME FM. The station was extremely popular among students on campus, so for Hines this breakthrough was hailed as a great achievement. He sites, “there’s nothing like having your talent exposed by radio.” The moniker “the Captain” was born on Chancellor Hall during his freshman year at college and as he aptly quipped stuck to him like a handle thereafter.
The Captain engendered the mixed show format by making it popular and brought something new to the table between 1990 and the 2000s. His impact is seen in the creative art of spinning and scratching for the last eighteen years on FAME 95 FM. Collin’s phenomenal stick-to-itiveness with the turntables despite the CD player wave and other new school technological influences is commendable as he was the only radio DJ until 2011 to maintain use of the old school tool. Collin’s creativity gave rise to the opportunity to tour with acts such as “Cham” (formerly Baby Cham) and group “Voicemail,” just to name a few, which saw him traveling to the US, Japan, Canada, Italy and Germany. In addition, his vast musical knowledge led to his foray as judge on the local Heineken Green Synergy Reality TV show. He continues to be an enterprising individual and lists his current projects as 90s dancehall mixed tape with promised follow ups to feature multiple genres. The plan he says is to drop a mixed tape every two weeks that he assures won’t be radio friendly. Collin is quick to acknowledge that he could not have progressed to this point without FAME FM. According to Hines, “Cumulatively, the mark so far made on radio and the influence that I’ve had on a new generation of kids that want to take up what I do for a living will be hailed as the most outstanding move in my career.” Presently, Collin followers can tune in 9pm-Midnight on a Wednesday, Friday 9am-1pm (Ignition), Saturdays during the “X-Mix”, 1-5pm and on Sundays 2pm – 7pm Facebook.com/CollinHines Twitter.com/CAPTCOLLINHINES Issue 11 | August 2012 13
TURNING HEADS AND MAKING WAVES. MEET MODEL/ACTOR
MICHAEL CARDOZA Michael A. Cardoza of Jamaican parentage was born in the Bronx on Christmas Day and from that time he has been turning heads. He began modeling and acting in action films at eight years old and by the time he was ten, he had graced the cover of Children’s Business Magazine and appeared in a full spread for Pelle Pelle Fashion in Source Magazine. Michael also appeared as a runway model in a celebrity Charity fashion show in Miami with Trey Smith and heirs to the Bacardi spirits empire, Gian and Ruby Bacardi. In early 2000, Michael relocated to Florida with his mother where he resided for six years before returning to New York two years ago to pursue his career in acting and modeling How has things been progressing in the Big Apple? Michael gives us the scoop. You began modeling at the age of 8 years old. What was it like being a child star? I didn’t think of myself as a star, I never even told my friends what I was doing they would see me in a magazine and get excited:) I thought of myself as a regular kid doing what I loved to do and get to hang out with my friends at the same time. Starting out that early, do you think you missed out on anything that kids that age do? No, not really because I was fortunate to be able to make time to do what I wanted to do and work at the same time. How did you feel when you first saw your face in a magazine? I was very excited and proud at the same time. I just wanted to do more and It motivated me to work harder. You have shared the runway with Will Smith’s son, Trey Smith. How was that experience? I remembered sitting in a room filled with kids waiting for the show to begin when this really friendly kid walked up and sat next to me. It was my first runway and he said to me “ just relax and it will be okay” I didn’t know who he was until he told me before we got onstage it made me even more relaxed and comfortable knowing that I am doing the show with my new friend who is my favorite actor’s son. And are you both still friends? We haven’t communicated with each other over the years. But the connection is still there. What are you currently working on? Currently, I am rebuilding my book, which allows me to keep up to date with my craft. Runway show for the Felton Group, photo shoots and going on castings ‘the ritual’ we all dread. Are you signed to an agency? Yes, I am presently working with a couple of agencies on a Freelance basis, but my mother is my MOMANAGER aka Manager. She is the “wind beneath my wings” and she pushes me to be the best that I can be.
How does the modeling industry differ for men and women? From what I’ve seeing, men it is less competitive market than for women. Women have to worry about if the changing hair-styles, managing body sizes and weight and the next young face. We take it in stride and do what we have to do when the work comes along. Outside of modeling/acting, do you have any other interests? Well, let’s see, cutting hair, I find myself cutting my friends hair in my spare time. Yeah being a barber is interesting. How do you relax when not working? Music..!!! I relax by listening to my favorite music like Buju, Beres, Shabba and of course the young Marleys (I know you are laughing because I am too young to know of Beres), but the one thing about great reggae music is that it has no generation expiration date. Also playing basketball with my friends in the neighborhood schoolyard is relaxing. It is Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary. How do you feel being a child of Jamaican parentage? It is a proud moment to be of Jamaican Heritage and I hope someday my work would join ranks of other well-known models & actors who paved the way. It’s always a good feeling going home to visit relatives. What are some of your fondest memories of Jamaica? Beach time and eating Yard-food I could never find In the US. Hanging with relatives, discovering my roots and enjoying the beauty of my Island. The ocean, coconut water and mangoes straight from the tree…yes I often wonder why I’m not living there. What do you love the most about the culture? Our culture is very strong…We are very proud people, laid back, principled and respectful of one another, especially of our parents and elders. We have created our own language and Swagga which tries to follow…everybody is now ‘Jamaican.’ Reggae music, Usain Bolt, Naomi Campbell, Tyson Bedford and Colin Powell all came from that rich culture. I am proud of my Jamaican roots. Issue 11 | August 2012 15
ROOTS & CULTURE: EDWARD SEAGA’S 50YEAR MISSION TO POPULARIZE JAMAICA’S SOUND By Raine Martin
“There are not a lot of people who do not know about the early music, the early music is very beautiful. Furthermore, for historical reason, we want to insure that the history of Jamaican popular music is well known by everybody, and it survives.” The Most Honorable Edward Philip George Seaga, O.N, P.C., former Prime Minister of Jamaica (1980 – 1989), began his political career in 1959, when he was appointed by Sir Alexander Bustamante - who would later become the country’s first Prime Minister upon gaining independence from Great Britain in 1962 – to serve in the Upper House of the Jamaica Parliament. He is currently the sole survivor of the Founding Fathers who wrote the constitution. In ‘62, Mr. Seaga would be elected Member of Parliament for West Kingston, beginning an illustrious 43year career as one of the nation’s brightest political leaders. However, the rise of his political life came at the expense of a career as a pioneer and entrepreneur in Jamaica’s recording industry. After graduating from Harvard University in 1952, his stint as a research fellow at the University of the West Indies unintentionally landed him right in the center of Jamaica’s fledgling music scene. On the golden anniversary of Jamaica’s freedom, the octogenarian former PM dons his music executive hat once again to engineer The Origins of Jamaican Popular Music, a compilation of the past half century of Jamaica’s pop culture music. Mr. Seaga grew up in Jamaica during the 1930s
and 40s, when radio stations were controlled by overseas companies, usually British, that pumped imported music and programming through the island’s airwaves. His research on culture and revivalism for the University brought him into West Kingston, an area that has historically been a settling ground for Jamaica’s ‘sufferers.’ Trenchtown, Denham Town, and Back O Wall - a slum that would eventually be transformed into Tivoli Gardens under Mr. Seaga’s tenure as Minister of Development - were among the most depressed areas of West Kingston economically, but one of the richest music-wise. Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, Alton Ellis, Leroy Sibbles, Dean Fraser, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Ken Booth, and Gregory Isaacs all have musical roots in West Kingston. In 1955, four years before locally controlled Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation was established, Mr. Seaga recorded local folk music on Folkways Records as part of his anthropological research for UWI. Anxious for Jamaicans to hear their own music, he hastily set out on a campaign to market and sell his recordings. “As it turned out, there wasn’t any market for it,” says Mr. Seaga. “But there also turned out that there was a lot of demand for popu-
lar music, which encouraged me to be an importer of popular music (from the U.S. and the U.K.).” Most of the popular music at that time were brought from America and Great Britain to the island by sound systems like Duke Reid’s ‘The Trojan’ and Coxsone Dodd’s ‘Downbeat.’ “Back then you had big operations with powerful amplifiers and speakers and so on, and they would run dances, but they would remove the labels on their records, because they wanted to keep the identity of the record a secret so that they could play it at their dance, and their rivals couldn’t,” he chuckles. In 1958, he established the West India Records, Ltd, and began recording local artists, as Ska, a new local pop music began to take form. Trenchtown natives Joe Higgs and Roy Wilson scored WIRL’s first big hit with “Manny Oh” in 1959, reportedly selling 30,000 copies. “At that time, competition was really based on the tune that you have. It wasn’t really about the quality of the recording, it was just what was on the record,” he recalls. “‘Manny Oh’ was successful (saleswise) because the song was a hit record with the sound systems and local dances.” Mr. Seaga also set up Chocomo Lawn, a cultural center in Denham Town which would become a hub for up and coming entertainers like Jimmy Cliff, Delroy Wilson, and Marcia Griffiths, nurturing and developing young talent, and becoming a sought after performance venue. In a newspaper interview, Desmond McKenzie states that “anybody who was anybody played at the Chocomo Lawn.” Mr. Seaga was also a key figure in the early careers of the Techniques led by legendary producer and arranger Winston Riley and Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, whom he also managed. After his political career gained momentum in the early 1960s, particularly when West Kingstonians elected him in Parliament, Mr. Seaga sold WIRL to Byron Lee, who changed the name to the now famous Dynamic Sound Recording Co.
young Jimmy Cliff, to perform at the World’s Fair in New York City.
“The reaction of the public to Jamaican music at the fair was to stop and listen. Some Although he was officially out of the music busi- stayed and listened intently, while others ness, he used his political power to continue to moved on,” he recalls. “America wasn’t tochampion and spread Jamaican music globally. tally ready for Jamaican music yet at that In 1964, as Minister of Development and Wel- time, but you could see there was an interest fare, Mr. Seaga set the wheels in motion for Ja- sparked.” maica’s cultural tourism industry when he sent Byron Lee and the Dragonaires and a group of The World’s Fair performances apparently did up and coming local artists, including Prince ignite an American interest in Jamaican muBuster, Millie Small, Desmond Dekker, and a sic, and eventually began to carve out a niche Issue 11 | August 2012
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in America’s pop culture market. U.S. label Epic Records put out The Real Jamaica Ska, a compilation produced by Carl Davis and American Soul legend Curtis Mayfield, later in ‘64. The album, which included previously released local singles “Simmer Down” by Bob Marley and the Wailers, The Technique’s “No One,” “Man to Man” by Lord Creator, and “Ska All Over the World” by Jimmy Cliff, is one of the first (if not the first) full length Ska albums to be released in the United States.
of Jamaican popular music is well known by everybody, and it survives. We are putting out this four cd set in an album, which will have notes that explain the music. It’s a selection of 100 records that we think are responsible for Jamaica’s music being a world brand music.”
When asked if this project would be his official entry back into the music industry, I was hit with an abrupt and solid “oh no” from the 82 year old Mr. Seaga would also establish the National Fes- retired leader of the Jamaica Labor Party, who tival in 1963, an island wide celebration of Inde- says the music industry has changed dramatipendence featuring local arts, literature and nat- cally since his WIRL days in the 50s. urally, music. Established in 1966, the Festival Song competition became the cornerstone of the I also asked him for his comments on the ‘great festival and birthed unforgettable hits like “Bam Jamaica 50 song debate of 2012.’ Bam” by Toots & the Maytals, “Cherry Oh Baby” by Eric Donaldson, and Tinga Stewart’s “Play De He weighs in: Music.” “I don’t even think it has been finalized as a After nearly 50 years of political service, includ- Jamaica 50 song anymore because, first of ing a decade as Prime Minister, Mr. Seaga finds all, neither of (the songs) have the quality to himself right back where he started, promoting be and secondly there was a lot of confusion Jamaica’s homegrown sound. In partnership with in the fact that one song had been already Reggae music powerhouse VP Records, Mr. Seaga produced when the government changed and is slated to release The Origins of Jamaican Pop- then the new government gave instructions ular Music in the late summer/early fall. After for another and of course you can’t do that. painstakingly sifting through five-plus decades The song is not a worthy product of Jamaiof Ska, Rock Steady and Reggae, he is confident ca’s 50th.” that this project will properly fete the history of the Island’s pop culture sound. Spoken like a true music executive…and politician. “The intended impact is education. The early music is very beautiful,” he says. “There are not a lot of people who do not know about the early music. Furthermore, for historical reason, we want to ensure that the history
artist and brand management
“the architects of entertainment”
LEON & The Peoples JADINE ~ THIRD WORLD Mobile: +1.347.216.6885 / JA#: 1.876.582.3970 International #: +1.347.627.0330 / Skype: VicRaeInc www.vicraeinc.com ~ twitter.com@vicraeinc facebook.com/vicraeinc
PATRIOTICALLY BEAUTIFUL In Celebration of Jamaica’s Independence
It’s been fifty years and yes we are ready for that big celebration! So bring on the booze, the confetti, the food - cause you know we like to eat - and ladies grab your makeup kits because we are going all out this independence day, heck we only turn fifty once. I chose this look because it’s very easy to recreate once you follow the step by step instructions. Now feel free to adjust this look whichever way you want. Start with a clean fresh face. Achieve this by washing your face then applying moisturizer no matter what you SHOULD NEVER apply makeup without moisturizing your face first.
You Will Need:
2. First apply your primer to help your 1. Apply your foundation all over face eye shadow’s color last longer then apand neck. ply the green shadow to the outer corners of the lower lid.
• Your shade foundation (Optional) • Setting Powder/ Loose Powder • Yellow/Gold eye shadow • Green Eye Shadow • Black eye shadow • Eye Primer • False Lashes (Optional) • Bronzer • Liquid liner/ Pencil liner in black • Lip Gloss
3. Then apply the yellow shadow in the 4. Use your black shadow inside the inner section of your lower lid. Make crease of your eyelid as well as the outer frame of your lower lid. sure to pack it on for the DRAMA If you’re not sure where the crease in your eyelid is, EFFECT. close your eyes and use your ring finger to feel just above your eyeballs, don’t press too hard that hollow area that sinks in is the crease of your eye.
Issue 11 | August 2012 23
5. It’s now time to apply the va va voom to your look, super long lashes, don’t worry if your makeup is looking a little clownish, the key to makeup is blending. Just take a clean brush and blend the different areas. Apply your eyeliner and mascara wait until everything is dry then apply false lashes. Make sure to measure them first and clip excess if necessary. Apply eyelash glue, wait for it to get a little sticky then apply it directly to the lash line.
6. After you have successfully applied the lashes you are going to line the lids again with liquid liner or black eye shadow wetting the tip of your brush to make the lash is neat and also to make it blend better.
BONUS: If your eyes are not your strong point then you may wish to focus on your lips. The ones I’m wearing are from Violent Lips, lip tattoo. You can also try styling with colored eye shadows and lip gloss. 7. Finish the look with some gloss or lip color of your choice and go out and celebrate.
Happy Independence Day everyone!
Lauren Dunn is a TV personality who has been working in entertainment for eight years. In addition to hosting programs on Jamaica’s top television station, she is the creator and host of her own show, The Lauren O Lauren Show, a take on her hugely popular blog that addresses real life issues, beauty and fashion. When she’s not flying around the globe looking for adventures, she is busy testing and trying out all the new beauty must have’s and fashion scores. Twitter: @laurenolauren Website: www.laurenolauren.com
GOING FOR THE GOLD! A LOOK AT JAMAICA’S ELITE FIVE FOR THE 2012 OLYMPICS IN LONDON
YOHAN BLAKE Yohan Blake will look to make his Olympic debut for Jamaica this summer in London, where he will try to contend for a medal in the men’s 100m, 200m and on his country’s 4x100m relay. The 22-year-old burst onto the scene in 2007, just his second year of competition for Jamaican scholastic track power St. Jago, breaking the national junior record in the 100m. The 100m world champion has now set sights on the world records held by his training partner, Usain Bolt. FINISHING FAST Bolstered by the confidence and swagger gained in winning his first world championship in Daegu, Blake capped the 2011 season with the two fastest performances of his career. At the Weltklasse Zurich meeting, the first Diamond League event post-Worlds, Blake won the 100m in 9.82 seconds, a time he would equal three days later at the ISTAF meeting in Berlin. Blake capped the year with a victory in the 200m at the Diamond League Memorial Van Damme meet in Brussels, clocking 19.26 seconds, a time trumped only by Usain Bolt’s world record 19.19 in history. ONE MAN’S LOSS IS ANOTHER’S GAIN All eyes were on Jamaica’s Usain Bolt as he got into the starting blocks to defend his 100m title at the World Championships. Although he had run well in the heats and qualified easily, Blake was not the central focus entering the final. But when Bolt jumped the starting gun and was disqualified from the race, attention shifted immediately to Blake. Under the glare of that spotlight, he blasted his way to victory in 9.82 seconds, earning his first world title. Later in the meet, he teamed with Bolt on the end of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay to win a second gold and set a new world record time of 37.04. RECORD RUN In a two-week span in April 2007, Blake erupted onto the international track scene. After running a personal-best 10.21 seconds to win the 100m at his interscholastic championship, Blake blazed his way to a 10.18 in the prelims at the CARIFTA Games and then won the Under-20 100m in 10.11, breaking the Jamaican junior national record set by 1984 Olympic silver medalist Raymond Stewart. BIG FAN Blake says one of the reasons he got into running was to one day be like Asafa Powell, Jamaica’s biggest track star and the world record holder in the 100m at 9.74 seconds. “He’s one my biggest idols,” Blake said. “I love to talk with him and get advice. It really means a lot to me whenever I hear him speak of me as well, because I’m one of his biggest fans even though I’m almost as big as him.”
PHOTO CREDIT - www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com
All eyes are on Jamaica in 2012. Not only is the country celebrating its 50th Independence Anniversary, they have dispatch their top athletes to compete and represent the country at the 2012 Olympics in London. Armed with the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, the team is poised to return to the island with their titles in tact – and that will undoubtedly be the islands best Anniversary gift. Dressed in gear designed by Cedella Marley and Puma, here are some hard hitting facts – provided by nbcolympics. com – about Jamaica’s elite five.
USAIN BOLT
PHOTO CREDIT - www.phombo.com
Usain Bolt will look to defend his Olympic sprint titles this summer in London. After an inauspicious Olympic debut in Athens in 2004, Bolt took the Games by storm in Beijing four years ago, winning gold and setting world records in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relays. He has since won five world titles and lowered his world records in all three events.
OLYMPIC HISTORY
As an 18-year-old at the Athens Olympics in 2004, Usain Bolt, still feeling the effects of a hamstring injury suffered that spring, was eliminated in the first round of heats in the 200m. At the Beijing Olympics in 2008, Bolt became a global star when he shattered the world record in the 100m, running 9.69 seconds; then took out Michael Johnson’s world record in the 200m, MORE HUMAN THAN MACHINE running 19.30 seconds; then ran the third leg Given the degree of winning we saw from Usain of Jamaica’s 4x100m which won gold in 37.10 Bolt since the Beijing Olympics, it came as an ut- seconds. ter shock when the great Jamaican actually lost a race in 2010. On August 6 in Stockholm, Bolt SERIOUSLY FAST was beaten by American rival Tyson Gay in the 100m. Gay clocked a 9.84 to Bolt’s 9.97. It was A series of injuries that threatened to derail his Bolt’s first loss in any race since before the 2008 career, reports of hard partying and lack of interOlympics, when he was beaten by Asafa Powell in est in training had caused many to write Bolt off as another over paid, spoiled athlete. But on June the same 1912 Olympic Stadium in Stockholm. 24, 2007, Bolt crossed the finish line of the 200m in 19.75 seconds, breaking the Jamaican record SPRINT STORY IN 2010 set by Olympic legend Donald Quarrie in Cali, Bolt kicked off 2010 with a scintillating 8.79-sec- Colombia in August 1971, 15 years before Bolt ond anchor leg of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay at was even born. “Over the years, I have learned the Penn Relays. He followed that up by winning a lot and it forces you to grow up quickly,” Bolt the 200m in 19.56 at the Jamaica Invitational said in an IAAF interview. “I am hungry for a title in May, winning the 100m at the Colorful Daegu under my belt and if you want to be a champion Meeting in 9.86, and then cruising to a 200m win you have to be serious, buckle down and do the at the Diamond League meet in Shanghai. At the work required.” Golden Spike in Ostrava later that month, Bolt won the 300m in 30.97, just missing the world FLASH OF THE FUTURE record on 30.85. But in that race, which was held in rainy conditions, Bolt suffered an Achil- Bolt found himself in the thick of a great 200m les tendon injury which wound up sidelining him race in Lausanne in 2005, the fastest since the for seven weeks. He returned to action on July Atlanta Olympics in 1996. He clocked a World 8 in Lausanne, winning the 100m in 9.82. Eight Junior record 19.88, a time that under any other days later, Bolt ran 9.84 to beat Asafa Powell in circumstance might have won the race. But it was only good for bronze as Xavier Carter won the 100m in Paris. in 19.63 and Gay finished second in 19.70 with Wallace Spearmon a close fourth in 19.90. Issue 11 | August 2012 27
Veronica CampbellBrown
Veronica Campbell-Brown will look to make her fourth Olympic appearance for Jamaica this summer in London. The two-time and defending champion in the 200m is coming off winning her first world title in the event in 2011. VICTORY IS SWEET After finishing second in 2007 and 2009, CampbellBrown ran a season best 22.22 to win her first world 200m title at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu. She also claimed silver in the 100m (10.97) and 4x100m (41.70NR). Campbell-Brown had qualified for her fourth World Championships by winning national titles in the 100 and 200m. FAST START
QUALITY NOT QUANTITY The 2010 season was prolific for Campbell-Brown in terms of results, not races. She competed in four meets indoors, winning three 60m races including the World Indoor championship in a personal-best 7.00 seconds. Her outdoor season consisted of nine races across the 100m, 200m and 400m. The highlights were a victory in the 100m at the Prefontaine Classic in a personal-best 10.78, and a victory over Allyson Felix in the 200m at the adidas Grand Prix in New York in a world-leading 21.98. MEDAL WITH METTLE Campbell-Brown qualified for her third World Cham-
GOLDEN GIRL At the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympics, Campbell-Brown carried the Jamaican flag during the Parade of Nations. It was the first memorable moment in a banner Olympics for Campbell-Brown, who went on to successfully defend her title in the 200m, winning gold in a new personal-best 21.74. She became just the second woman in history to win backto-back Olympic gold medals in the 200m, following after Bärbel Wöckel of Germany, who did so at the 1976 and 1980 Olympics. HISTORIC VICTORY At the 2004 Athens Games, Campbell-Brown became the first woman from Jamaica or any Caribbean nation to win an Olympic sprint gold with her victory in the 200m. Campbell-Brown led from the start and crossed first in 22.05, holding off Allyson Felix of the U.S. (22.18) and Debbie Ferguson (22.30) of the Bahamas. The result broke a run of four consecutive silver medals for Caribbean women in the 200m. Jamaicans Grace Jackson (1988), Juliet Cuthbert (1992), and Merlene Ottey (1996), and Bahamian Pauline Davis-Thompson (2000) all finished second. REALLY RELAY FAST Campbell-Brown was just 18-years-old when she competed at her first Olympics in Sydney in 2000, when she ran the second leg of Jamaica’s 4x100m. Campbell-Brown teamed with Tanya Lawrence, Beverly McDonald and Merlene Ottey for silver. Four years later in Athens, Campbell-Brown anchored the team of Lawrence, Sherone Simpson, and Aleen Bailey to gold.
PHOTO CREDIT - www.thehabarinetwork.com
Campbell-Brown got her 2011 season off to a rousing start. She competed in just one indoor meet, winning the 60m at the Millrose Games in New York in 7.11 seconds. She opened her outdoor campaign with a victory in the 400m at the University of Central Florida Invitational where she ran a personal-best 52.25. After a runner-up finish to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in the 200m at the Jamaica International Invitational, Campbell-Brown won her first Diamond League race of the season in Shanghai, edging Carmelita Jeter 10.92 to 10.95. Two weeks later Campbell-Brown ran a personal best 10.76 to win in Ostrava.
pionships by winning the 200m national title. Despite suffering from a toe injury, she beat runners up Shelly-Ann Fraser and Simone Facey with a time of 22.40 seconds. In Berlin, Campbell-Brown was lacking full fitness and finished fourth in the 100m behind Fraser, Stewart and American Carmelita Jeter. In the 200m, she took silver behind American Allyson Felix.
ASAFA POWELL Asafa Powell will look to make his third career Olympic appearance for Jamaica this summer in London, where he could be a medal contender in the men’s 100m. The former world record holder has been unable to come up big in big individual races and is still seeking his first individual Olympic medal. He won gold on Jamaica’s 4x100m in Beijing. CASUAL START Keeping his greater goal of greatness at the Daegu World Championships in mind, Powell was conservative in his approach to early-season racing in 2011. He opened with a 200m race at the UTech Classic, where he looked strong for the first 140 meters before slowing down considerably in a third-place finish in 20.55. After two stints on Jamaica’s 4x100m relay, he returned for another 200m in Kingston, this time at the Jamaica International Invitational, where he ran hard for the first 120 meters before again slamming the breaks before a last-place finish in 21.40. Afterward, he cited minor hamstring pain as his reason for pulling back. In his first 100m race of the season, Powell got a great start and held off American Mike Rodgers to win the Diamond League meet in Shanghai in 9.95.
PHOTO CREDIT - www.kuainabaida.blogspot.com
HEALTHY TO START After two seasons hampered by early injuries, Asafa Powell was actually the healthy sprinter at the outset of 2010. While Usain Bolt and Tyson Gay nursed injuries for the first seven weeks, Powell dominated the sprint scene. He won the Diamond League meet in Doha in a wind-aided 9.81. At the Golden Spike in Ostrava, Powell established a world-leading time of 9.83 in the 100m and en route to this performance, he also set the rarely-run 100-yard world best of 9.07. He followed that up with another Diamond League victory in Oslo in a wind-aided 9.72, and a wind-legal victory in 9.82 at the Golden Gala in Rome. After winning the 200m at the Jamaican Nationals, Powell returned to the European circuit in Gateshead, where his winning ways were halted by Gay, who edged Powell by .02 in 9.94. Powell’s next race, in Paris, yielded another defeat, this time to Bolt who won by .07 in 9.91. During that race, Powell suffered back and hamstring injuries that ended his season. ON THE MEND Powell once again found himself injured during the early portion of the 2009 season. First he was a lastminute no show for the UTech Track and Field Classic, where he was supposed to run the 200m and 4x100m races. Later that April, his position on Jamaica’s 4x100m relay at the Penn Relays was moved
from third to anchor to account for an ankle injury. Even though Powell did not stress the ankle running the curve, he still pulled up limp and finished last in the race. Powell took the next month off from competition before returning at the Reebok Grand Prix in New York, where he finished seventh on a weakbut-not-painful ankle. He did not resemble a runner near full strength until later in the summer when he ran 9.88 in a runner-up finish to Tyson Gay at the Golden Gala in Rome. At the World Championships in Berlin, he won bronze behind Usain Bolt and Gay in the 100m, and anchored Jamaica to victory in the 4x100m. RELAY FAST Seven days after his disappointing showing in the 100m final at the Beijing Olympics, Powell was back on the track as the anchor of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team. Powell got the baton from Usain Bolt and blasted down the straightaway, crossing in a worldrecord 37.10 seconds. The victory earned Powell his first Olympic medal, but more impressive was his performance against the clock. Powell’s split time was recorded at 8.70 seconds according to a USATF High Performance Registered Split Analysis, a time which bettered his previous personal-best of 8.84 set at the world Championships in Osaka in 2007. His split was also the fastest electronically-timed anchor run in history. “Bullet” Bob Hayes was hand-timed between 8.6 and 8.9 seconds at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo. WORLD’S FASTEST MAN It didn’t take long for Powell to rebound from his substandard performance in Osaka -- or to predict bigger things to come. Two weeks later, Powell shattered his 100m world record with a victory in 9.74 seconds at the IAAF Grand Prix in Rieti, Italy. “In Osaka, I was too tense,” Powell said. “I thought too much about my race and the time I was hoping to achieve. On the other hand I was very relaxed in coming here (Rieti). That means I could run 9.68.” GETTING AT GREENE As a young, late-blooming Jamaican sprinter, Powell served notice that he would be a medal contender in Athens in the 100m when he ran a 9.91 at the Jamaican Championships in June 2004. It was the same time that Maurice Greene ran at the U.S. Olympic Trials, but Powell didn’t have strong competitors pushing him. Later that month July, he beat Greene in London, again posting a 9.91. And in early August at a meet in Zurich, Powell bested Greene yet again, posting a 9.93 to Greene’s 9.94. Issue 11 | August 2012 29
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will look to make her second appearance at the Olympics for Jamaica this summer in London where she figures to be a medal contender in the women’s sprints. A virtual unknown four years ago, Fraser-Pryce stormed to victory in the 100m in Beijing and followed it with a world title in 2009. SHOOTING FOR STRENGTH With an automatic bye into the World Championships as the reigning 100m champion, Fraser-Pryce opted to focus on building her strength by incorporating more 200m races into her 2011 season. She scored victories at the longer distance at the Jamaica Classic and Jamaica Invitational meets in Kingston and a third-place finish at the Diamond League Weltklasse Zurich meet. At the World Championships, FraserPryce won her first two heats of the 100m before finishing fourth in the final in 10.99. SEASON SUSPENDED
TAKING WORLDS BY STORM In 2009, Fraser-Pryce proved that her Olympic victory was no flash in the pan. She broke 11 seconds in the 100m seven times in 16 races, the first coming in a victory at the Jamaican National Championships, where she ran 10.88 into a 1.5 meters-per-second headwind. Later that summer at the World Championships in Berlin, Fraser-Pryce exploded out of the blocks and held off late charges from teammate Kerron Stewart and American Carmelita Jeter to win the 100m gold in a national-record 10.73. She later ran the second leg on the Jamaican 4×100 meters relay team that won gold. OLYMPIC BREAKTHROUGH Few outside of Jamaica knew anything about Fraser-Pryce heading into the 2008 Olympics, other than she was a promising talent who trained with Asafa Powell’s MVP Club in Kingston. In Beijing, she gradually began to emerge on the contender’s radar. In her first round heat of the 100m, she placed first in a time of 11.35. In the quarters, she improved her time to 11.06 seconds, finishing first in her heat. In the semifinals, Fraser again finished in front, outsprinting teammate Kerron Stewart and U.S. Olympic Trials champion Muna Lee in 11.00. In the final, FraserPryce led a Jamaican sweep of the medals, winning the race in a personal-best 10.78. Fraser became the first Jamaican woman ever to win gold in the 100m and her time was the second-fastest 100m ever recorded by a Jamaican woman, a mere 0.04 seconds of Merlene Ottey’s national record.
PHOTO CREDIT - Hypelifemag.com
Fraser-Pryce was just getting her 2010 season going when she learned that she had tested positive for a banned substance. Before the competed in her Diamond League opener in Shanghai, she had undergone an oral procedure and her doctor prescribed oxycontin for pain. According to Fraser-Pryce, she took one pill, which triggered the positive test in Shanghai. The infraction drew a six-month ban from competition and all of her results from 2010 were disqualified. “What was the most embarrassing thing for me was when I went on the IAAF doping list and saw my name,” Fraser-Pryce said. “I freaked. I didn’t go to training for days. I sat home and I cried. I was hysterical. I couldn’t sleep and I couldn’t eat for days. I have nothing to hide and am very genuine in everything that I say. I did not take this pain killer knowing that
it was on the banned list. But it happened and it was a setback in my career.”
Jamaica Celebrates 50 years of Independence
As Jamaica - birth place of multiple music genres, legends and outstanding personalities - celebrates 50 years as an independent nation, I looked to my home country for inspiration for this month’s fashion feature. For each look, there is inspiration from each of the decades. It was so much fun working on this feature and particularly easy as Jamaicans on a whole are very stylish and fashionable, and creating fashion inspiration from themes was in some instances as easy as replicating looks from the times. Photographer: Marc Evans, marcevansimages.com Make-up: Angelie Martin-Spencer Stylists: Arlene L. Martin, Angelie Martin-Spencer Clothing: drennaLUNA, drennaLUNA.com
Our first Decade: Birth of a Nation! With the granting of Independence on August 6, 1962, the nation celebrated, and one main event was the Independence Ball hosted by the Prime Minister, which served as inspiration for this look. Alexia wears a gown from the [drennaLUNA] New Moon col Our first Decade: Birth of a Nation! With the granting of Independence on August 6, 1962, the nation celebrated, and one main event was the Independence Ball hosted by the Prime Minister, which served as inspiration for this look. Alexia wears a gown from the [drennaLUNA] New Moon collection in the ballroom.
Our Second Decade: Rastafarian movement and I-Threes The I-Threes, formed in 1974, was inspiration for our look for our second decade. Not only was it the decade of their establishment but also one of legendary recordings and performances from Bob Marley and the Wailers, whom they supported. We recognise not only the I-Threes, but also reggae – a global and influential music genre – as well as Rastafarianism in this look. Alexia is draped in knits and wrapped in red, yellow and green for headwear.
Our Third Decade – Dancehall Rude-boy I absolutely love the look of the dancehall and the rude-boys of the dancehall from the 1980s. Our DJs, like Super Cat, were ever so stylish in their pants and buttoned up shirts, or sweaters, typically accessorised with hats and necklaces. In this decade the music and fashion was uniquely Jamaican.
Our fourth Decade – A Global Nation Global trade and investment which began in the 1980s continued into the 1990s and strengthened the position of Jamaica as a global nation in business, and not only tourism and culture. This look of the empowered woman represents the corporate growth of enterprises and global business integration. Alexia is a corporate professional wearing this suit from the [drennaLUNA] Botswana Collection.
Look: Golden Anniversary In 2012, we go for Gold at the 2012 Olympic Games while celebrating our golden anniversary. With the black, gold and green of the Jamaican flag in the background, we celebrate in gold. Dress: drennaLUNA limited style from the New Moon Collection.
DANCEHALL WELCOMES
Q-BAN
Young, fresh and talented are just a few of the words that we can use to describe Dancehall’s newest act, Q-ban. He is no stranger to the business. He grew up in a family surrounded by talented and creative individuals and at an early age formed a musical bond with sister, Dancehall Artist, Ce’Cile. He would often sit and watch as his sister wrote songs, sang all day and even followed her to her studio sessions. He quickly adapted the same drive and ambitions for the business as he witnessed his sister thrive in whatever she encountered. Q-Ban’s journey began by performing at school events and also family functions. His mother insisted that he acquired a formal education but he was determined to pursue his career in music. After a performance at a local event in 2011, Q-Ban joined forces with a US based management/promotions team, The Usual Suspect, who decided to give the young, upcoming artist his shine. Thus far he has recorded and released three singles all of which boasts accompanying music videos garnering the young act regular rotation on Hype TV, RETV, CVM TV, TVJ and other local stations. He has shared stage with acts such as Aidonia, Tommy Lee and Coco T. However his biggest performance to date was at the 2012 Reggae Sumfest: International Night II, where he shared stage with acts like R. Kelly, Christopher Martin, Damion “Jr Gong” Marley and Protégé. This is just the beginning for Q-Ban. With plans to record new singles and a few collaborations, he is steadily working towards becoming a household name both locally and internationally Has music always been a part of your life? Yes music has always been a part of my life as I grew in a musical family literally since birth. Also I was always in the entertainment field such as drama, speech, dancing and choir. I was always fascinated by the ability to be able to entertain complete strangers, which got me even more curious about becoming a professional musician/entertainer! Who are your musical influences and why? My musical influences has been great and prior icons such as Bob Marley, and current stars such as Damion Jr. Gong Marley, Mavado and Sean Paul. I admire their hard work and dedication. They have not only managed to capture and carve out an international niche but have successfully managed to stay current, relevant and competitive within a saturated and difficult market. If you had to choose ONE artist to collaborate with, who would it be? I am most looking forward to an opportunity to one day work and perform alongside Damian ‘Jnr Gong’ Marley. What’s your favorite thing to do outside of music? I enjoy liming with friends on the soccer field, video games are also another relax mode for me and other personal vices I can’t comment on at this time.
What projects are you currently working on? A few things are in the pipelines. I recently signed a management deal with ‘The Usual Suspect’ Label, which I am super excited about. They have been awesome so far, my manager has great plans for the future. Which mainstream/underground artist are you currently listening to? Well Mainstream - Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Jr. Gong and Mavado of course. Locally - I - Octane, Konshens, Kartel and the Gaza Family. Iphone or Blackberry? Blackberry – It’s the most efficient means to get work done at the moment... for me that is. Ipad or Kindle? I like to read so ama go with Kindle. Mac or PC? Mac Deffo.... Do you have a favorite vacation destination? I have always dreamt about going to Hawaii or Brazil .. yup that’s my bucket list. Share 2 things that the public may not know about you. Behind the serious face, I am a kindhearted and caring person. I will leave the next answer for the next interview…wink. Twitter.com/careyqban Facebook.com/careyqbancharlton
REGGAE SUMFEST CELEBRATED TWO MILESTONES AND DELIVERED AN EPIC FESTIVAL
“Grammy Kid” across the 60ft wide stage. Summerfest Productions, organizers of the Festival honored the artist whose last performance on The 20th staging of Reggae Sumfest registered the Festival was in 1994 by way of a special pregreat moments on and off the stage synony- sentation and a fantastic fireworks show at the mous with the significant milestone Jamaica end of his performance. celebrates as a nation. Organizers recognized several of Jamaica’s musical stalwarts, crowned Audiences continued to be wowed on Internaa queen and brought home one of Jamaica’s tional Night 2 when R&B icon R. Kelly pulled prolific sons of Dancehall to an amazing wel- out all the stops with his immense catalogue come. of hits. Multi-Grammy award winning Damian “Junior Gong” Marley came and conquered all Jamaican and international audiences merged before him. Damian celebrated his birthday on to witness the Festival’s 20th staging which took stage and the audience celebrated his truly replace from July 15th to 21st with a hard hitting markable performance. Reggae extraordinaire Beach Party at Aquasol Theme Park that paved Bunny Wailer, the longest living Wailer, brought the way for Dancehall Night on the 19th and In- the curtain down on yet another staging. He ternational Nights 1 and 2 on the 20th and 21st paused to express the significance of Sumfest which filled the park each performance night. to Jamaica. “Sumfest is the machinery that launches young acts and sustains reggae muA phenomenal line up of over 20 acts on Dance- sic.” hall Night featuring the likes of Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Lady Saw, I-Octane, Pop Caan, Reggae Sumfest, an official Jamaica 50 event Tommy Lee, Aidonia and Konshens among oth- was graced by the presence of the Minister of ers satisfied the cravings of a discerning crowd. Youth, Culture and Entertainment, Lisa Hanna, on International Night 1 where the minister The ladies of dancehall Tifa, Spice, Stacious and presented “The Pin of Pride” to acts among the Lady Saw represented with exuberance and Jamaica 50 tribute for their tremendous contristyle. The night proved to be the perfect segue bution to reggae music. Also a recipient, Johnny for the remainder of the Festival. Gourzong, Executive Director, Summerfest Productions was pleased to note “This year has International Night 1 provided an overwhelming been a special year seeing us celebrate two experience for an eager and excited audience by milestones, Jamaica 50th and our 20th stagway of a legendary Jamaica 50th tribute which ing. We are proud of our achievement and saw acts like Pinchers, Derrick Harriot, Leroy would like to thank from the bottom of our Smart, Leroy Sibbles, Mighty Diamonds, U-Roy, hearts all our sponsors, participating hotels, John Holt and Yellow Man. International sensa- the media, patrons and our very dear Sumtion Trey Songz took the stage and thrilled the fest family for their continuing support of audience with an electrifying performance while Reggae Sumfest.” reggae Prince Tarrus Riley captivated the Sumfest massive with his own special magic. Reggae Sumfest 2012 was sponsored by Digicel, Red Stripe, Iberostar, Jamaica Tourist A long anticipated performance from Shabba Board and Pepsi. Ranks was the highlight of the night as patrons followed the agile movements of Jamaica’s By Carlette DeLeon Photo Credit: Adrian Creary
DANCEHALL NIGHT
Issue 11 | July 2012 41
INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS 1 & 2
INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS 1 & 2
Issue 11 | August 2012 43
Creative Director’s Note JAMAICA: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS It is said that in summer, the song sings itself. We join in the chorus as the world celebrates Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence and Triple The Focus’ August issue pays tribute to some of the unique moments of Jamaican entertainment. Jamaica’s biggest summer festival, Reggae Sumfest, is over and we were there to capture the many images to convey another historical event. The tributes and presentations to music legends provided spectators vast insight and appreciation of Jamaica’s musical heritage. Thanks to Carlette DeLeon of Headline Entertainment for providing a breakdown of all three nights and Summerfest Productions for sharing images that I am sure will captivate you. It’s a great honor to have The Most Honorable Edward Philip George Seaga, former Prime Minister of Jamaica, as our cover feature this month. Hon. Seaga took time out of his hectic schedule to not only speak with us, but posed for a photoshoot with our resident photographers RD Studios at UWI. Readers are introduced to one of his many passions, his love for Jamaican music. His recent collaboration with VP Records on the forthcoming music project “Origins of Jamaican Popular Music” shares the stories of Jamaica’s history, which cannot be told without music. Reggae legend Bob Marley’ name and legacy, another important chronicle in Jamaican history, has continued and conveyed through his bloodline. The beautiful and talented Cedella Marley, the CEO of Tuff Gong International provides us with an insight into the Marley World. Her creative and enterprising ventures in the fashion world have extended the Marley Brand into new arenas. As she continues her father’s legacy she also creates her own as she displays her fashion line proudly worn by the Jamaican team at the 2012 Olympics in London. Young aspiring model and actor, Michael Cardoza, is determined, self-confident and full of energy and is ready to show the world what he’s got. In our feature Michael talks about his Jamaican heritage and how that has molded him into the man he is today. DrennaLuna’ fashion layout is also about paying homage to Jamaica’s rich history depicting various looks throughout the pass five decades. Styles expressed from the Nation’s Birth, Rastafarian movement, Dancehall Rude-boy era, A Global Nation and Golden Anniversary trends are very much apart of Jamaica’s colorful history. In your opinion, which fashion era brings back the most outstanding memories? Please email creativedirector@triplethefocus.com a photo of yourself from that exciting decade and we will publish in an upcoming reader’s issue. The team and I are happy to dedicate this issue in celebration of Jamaica’s 50th Independence. Happy 50th Anniversary Jamaica land we love! Until next month “T-Focus and think Creative!”
Vic Rae
Your Creative Director
CreativeDirector@TripleTheFocus.com