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Local News Written by Crystal Cassie
W
illiam Shakespeare wrote, “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” He was definitely right, as we all have different experiences when it comes to love and relationships. Here are what some local celebrities have to say about the keys to a successful relationship and marriage…
CHUCKY GORDON, Calypso Monarch 2014 “Communication for me is most important. As solid communication facilitates understanding allows for better decision making and for the resolution of conflict. Most relationships suffer due to people feeling not listened to, and misunderstood which invariably leads to perpetual conflict.”
Industry Insiders Share Personal Relationship Tips forward in your relationship. Trust, loyalty and love are definitely the key players in developing a strong marital bond.”
DEREK CHIN, Owner and Chairman of Movietowne Cineplexes “I have been married for 36 years now. The most important thing is to have a friendship with the person, someone who you can trust and respect, not just someone who has a beautiful body. While there may be ups and downs, you have to understand the person’s background and develop a core friendship with them, so you can rely on them through trials and tribulations. The essence of it is that you accept them as your lifelong partner. It’s also important to have a sense of humor, a positive personality and do different, fun things together.”
DANA SEENATH, of D. Rampersad INDI-ART Orchestra “Well I am not married or in a relationship… I am a busy person so therefore I have no time. I think marriage is a waste and relationships suck.” CANDICE BACCUS, Owner and Managing Director of Simply Runway “I strongly believe in proper communication skills to ensure the least amount of baggage going
is respecting who the person is at present, who he was before and assisting him/her to maximize their potential in all areas for the future.”
LISA MCCOON, Photographer, New Horizon Video Productions “As a local photographer, I can truly say that a picture paints a thousand words. Too often you see couples who are not comfortable around each other or where one is more dominant and the other just follows. A picture can capture that and my advice to have a happy marriage and relationship is that you have to be comfortable around each other. You must be confident that your actions, feelings and emotions are completely accepted by your partner so that no matter what you do, you can always be true to yourself and know that you are accepted and loved for who you are.” KAMEEL ALI, Model, Bodybuilder and Spin Instructor “While one may think that love is the basis of a good relationship, I think that a sound relationship is built on the foundation of trust.
The ET&T WEEKLY Tabloid is published by ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited in the island of Trinidad and Tobago and is protected by strict copyright laws and is not to be reproduced in full or in part without the written consent from the management of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited. ©Copyright Abstract Media Group Company Limited 2013. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: The views expressed herein are expressed by the writers and do not reflect the sentiment of Abstract Media Group Company Limited. Disclaimer: The views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Employees of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP COMPANY LIMITED are expressly required not to make defamatory statements and not to infringe or authorize any infringement of copyright or any other legal right. Any such article is contrary to company policy and is outside the scope of the employment of the individual writer concerned. The company will not accept any liability in respect of such article, and the employee responsible will be personally liable for any damages or other liability arising.
A relationship without trust is not worth the bother. Two people who love each other need to understand that they are not each other’s keepers; they cannot be in each other’s company all the time and so they need to exist in bond of trust. In addition, successful relationships are built on the ability to compromise. No two people are the same; arguments will occur and so both parties must agree to mutual compromise. In this regard, emotional intelligence is important. If two people know and understand each other then they will be able to avoid unnecessary conflict. And finally, keep it spicy! Relationships can get boring and so both parties should be willing to try new activities – let each day with your partner be a new adventure!”
HARLEY ROBERTSON, former double bass principal, St Augustine Chamber Orchestra “The key to a good relationship www.amgtt.com •
MAY, 2014 • ET&T
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Local News I
Beres, Duane Stephenson and Gyptian Returning for Redemption
t’s the month of a concert that organizers believe will go down in Trinidad and Tobago’s history as the ultimate stance to create change. Beres Hammond is on his way to Trinidad and with a mandate given by promoters, Ricky Raghunanan. Group of Companies and Tropix Entertainment, to preach and even teach love on show night, Hammond is expected to revel in the opportunity. For three decades Jamaica’s sweet voice of reggae has illuminated dark hearts, breathing love into the souls of worldwide audiences through lyric and melody. It won’t be his first trip to T&T and understanding that Hammond has delivered well on several occasions locally, organizers say they are confident that true reggae music lovers, will remember just what Beres is capable of, and they will come out in their numbers. With hits like ‘Groovy Little Thing’, ‘What One Dance Can Do’, ‘Putting Up Resistance’, ‘They Gonna Talk,’ ‘Rockaway’ and countless others, Beres Hammond is the ultimate love rockers reggae artiste. Over the years,
Beres Hammond leads the lineup
Duane Stephenson
Gyptian is also on the cast
Hammond has collaborated with numerous acts, among them, Buju Banton, Shaggy, Barrington Levy and Marcia Griffiths. His confident demeanor always exudes a sense of comfort on stage and this certainly trickles into every crowd that he commands, leading to truly successful events that live on in the memories of those who attend. On May 31st, those who have never experienced a Beres Hammond performance will have the chance to do so and those who have, will have an opportunity to relive the memory. Beres will be hitting the stage with some of his Jamaican reggae
counterparts at the Hasely Crawford Stadium Grounds when he touches down in T&T. VP recording artiste, Gyptian and the ever impressive, Sanchez are also on the lineup. Additionally, Duane Stephenson whose singles, ‘August Town,’ and ‘Fool For You’ have been warmly received in T&T, will take to the stage to inspire love and unity through music. Tropix Entertainment is well known in the promotional arena for hosting events of a high standard. Over the years, the promotional powerhouse has effectively staged major carnival events like Army Fete, Fire Fete and others.
Outside of Carnival, a number of shows featuring mature acts such Peabo Bryson and James Ingram have drawn large audiences. The Ricky Ragoonanan Group of companies meanwhile is known in the local entertainment industry as a top supplier of entertainment equipment that guarantees the safety and comfort of patrons. Together, these entities are gearing up to deliver to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, an event unlike any otherone that they are promising, will leave a positive and impressive memory in the hearts and minds of thousands. Courtesy Etcet-era the Company
Plans Underway For Caribbean Movie Network
I
an Pantin is the epitome of the modern businessman. He is always seeking to push the next boundary and he is driven by a fierce passion for the things in his field of entrepreneurship. Never one to settle, the man behind the success of entertainment superstar Bunji Garlin as well as I’m Santana the Movie is about to embark on a new venture that should open doors for thousands of people within the Caribbean diaspora. In an interview with the Abstract Business Guide Pantin spoke about a new mega project which is set to alter the local movie industry forever. The novel idea is focused on the development of a new Network dedicated to Caribbean movie content.
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“It’s another one of my crazy ideas, my heart is very much into film these days, so coming soon look out for the Caribbean Movie Network “CMN” A cable channel dedicated to films produced in the Caribbean by Caribbean and international film producers. I am partnering with Peter C Lewis and Michael Richards on this,” said Pantin. The businessman also took the time to tout the upcoming Jeffrey Allenye film ‘Welcome to Warlock’” He said movies such as these by underground producers and directors could rival content worldwide and it is essential they are given the required support. “There are many young and talented producers in the industry, but the avenues are very limited, that’s why the success of CMN will be key to the
ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
Ian Pantin holds an award
industry’s growth” added Pantin. As far as the follow up to Lexo TV’s Santana movie, he says they are in the stage of marketing the brand to ensure the movie launch will be twice as successful as part one. “I’m Santana the movie proved to be a success story, I’m thankful to God for introducing me to
Roger Alexis. He is an abundance of talent. The Station has grown to over 15.5 million views on YouTube with over 52,000 subscribers and we are present in 162 countries. Roger and I continue to foster an avenue of a careful and controlled expansion. Production begins soon on I’m Santana the movie part 2. We are also expanding our network of young and talented film producers. I have also set up an International theatre and hosting tour for the Santana series of characters in other Caribbean islands and in North America. The tour kicks off on May 24th in Orlando.” Keep following ET&T for more local entertainment updates.
Local News
“W
e are bringing Carnival down the islands.” These are the words of Jawanza Carter, of Something Special and Black Card Entertainment - one of the crews behind Ultimate Scandal Mas. This DDI party is one of the most hyped parties in recent times. If you asked Jawanza about the event he will tell you that it is not just another boat ride or DDI jam. “We are truly recreating the Carnival Experience. Patrons are asked to come in their bikinis and beach wear and if you still have your carnival costume you can wear that,” he said. “We will be transforming the island setting with grand stage and lighting and patrons will be taken to the event aboard yachts.” He added.
Scandal Mas Promises to Be DDI Delight 5Star Akil
The reason for transforming the island to that particular setting is to accommodate the soca artistes who will be present to perform. Blaxx and 5 Star Akil will be there and the promoters promised a few more surprises for the patrons on the night. Additionally, music will be supplied by JJ and Shot, Hollywood Sachy and DJ Dane, Trevelyn and Die Hard sounds, S. Carter and more! There will be no shortage of fun for the attendees at this party and there will also be giveaways for lucky patrons. A Tablet computer and a Hyatt pass are just a few of the prizes up for grabs. ET&T will definitely be present for this piece of Skandal. Where will you be?
Jah Defender Ready To Introduce Positive Balance
D
iamondvale native, Ricardo Mills a.k.a. Jah Defender is on a different level of consciousness. You feel it in his music and his passion during conversation is equally undeniable. The talented reggae singer has been working hard in the vineyards for several years having made his professional debut in 2005. Now having paid his dues, the conscious lyricist is ready to take Trinidad and the world by storm. Fresh off a sterling performance at Reggae on the Bay the artiste spoke on his future plans; Rastafarian misrepresentation and his name change from ‘JahFire.’ Of the new soubriquet he says “The name speaks for itself. I defend Jah in everything. Even though Jah doesn’t need a bodyguard I stand up for what he represents.” He added that he changed his name from Jah Fire because someone else already had the name, but he thinks it worked out for the best. On his future plans, Jah Defender is pushing for a 2015 release of a new album. He has been busy creating new material in Backyard Studios with the project in mind. He hopes to 4
name the album Dancehall Explosion, but he says it’s not what you think. It is a tongue in cheek way of delivering his conscious message. His last album dropped almost to the day last year and he was nominated for Best New Roots Reggae Artiste alongside Sizzla and Junior Kelly. So far, he has shared the stage with numerous popular artists such as: Morgan Heritage, Jr. Reid, and Chezidek, in addition
ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
he has collaborated with other artists, such as Chuck Fender in the song entitled “I love it so.” His next single is carded for near release and features Pressure. Mills believes the time to leave his mark is now as he believes we are in the times spoken about in Revelations. He hopes that somehow he can unite people through his music. He does not promise salvation, as his craft is merely a tool. How-
ever, he is keen to use that tool to represent Rastafarianism and consciousness since too many people have not done a good enough job before him. With the help of his manager Cathy Ann Edwards and his 7 Seals records team, the Defender hopes to be on the lips of most of T&T soon. After that, the world better watch out for this warrior.
Local Loads of Excitement Surrounds News European Film Festival 2014 P
ower, passion, fatal attraction, the kinky, the grotesque, comic relief, little people in drag and a dash of S&M to froth things up—the drama is once again set to unfold at this year’s European Film Festival (EFF). With a strong lineup of 26 films from 12 countries, the 18th edition of the European Film Festival is set to be the best ever. Covering a range of countries and issues through dramas, documentaries, thrillers and comedies, the lineup will see tales from countries as diverse as France, Germany, Spain, The Netherlands and Britain, among
A still from the film Trishna
others. “One of the aims of the EFF is to give local audiences a glimpse of the customs, history and culture of contemporary
European society,” said Jacques Sturm, Ambassador of France, the 2014 coordinating mission of the EFF. “Further, it is hoped that the
films shown will rekindle the memories of past experiences in Europe for those who are already familiar with it, and to those who are not, hopefully increase their desire to visit, and discover its atmosphere and its people.” The EFF, an annual showcase of some of the latest movies from Europe, is hosted by the European diplomatic missions in Trinidad and Tobago and the EU Delegation. This year it is again being held in partnership with the trinidad+tobago film festival. The EFF runs from 14–27 May at MovieTowne Port of Spain, with screenings at MovieTowne in Tobago happening from 21–27 May.
Soundclash Legends Target Caribbean M
ighty Crown produces first riddim to feature non-Japanese Artistes Mighty Crown is quickly establishing themselves as producers of fine Reggae music with the formal release of “Love Feeling Riddim” on their Lifestyle Records imprint this week in iTunes. The internationally acclaimed sound system, managed by Caribbean entertainment outfit Irish and Chin, makes musical magic on the “One Drop” style riddim, which to date features the likes of Wayne Wonder, Romain Virgo, Gappy Ranks and Super Criss (of Japanese group Fireball). The artists perfectly flavor the production with their unique styles and vocal delivery, spawning an incredible ‘Love Feeling’ for all listeners. Produced by Mighty Crown selector and co-founder Sami-T, the “Love Feeling Riddim” was a result of his strong love for all things Reggae music and good relationships with the artists on the project. The charismatic Sami-T declares, “I see the ‘Love Feeling Riddim’ as a real grown up production. It’s centered on man to woman relationships
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and big people things that we can relate to in life.” From the young Romain Virgo’s rich vocals on “Never Seen Your Type” and the thrilling chords of legendary crooner Wayne Wonder on “Left with a Broken Heart” to U.K.’s divinely talented
ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
Gappy Ranks on “Just a Little Bit Longer” and Japanese singing sensation Super Criss on “Whole New World,” the “Love Feeling Riddim” yields an incredible, soothing listening experience. What Sami-T describes as
a “lover’s rock kind of vibe,” “Love Feeling Riddim” marks the beginning of a riddim production movement for Mighty Crown. Rising to fame as a World Clash Champion sound, Mighty Crown is known for sensational dub plates. According to Sami-T, production comes naturally for Mighty Crown. He says “cutting dub plates or specials requires the same skill, creativity and good ear for music as producing…in fact, it is producing!” The “Love Feeling Riddim” is Mighty Crown’s first “official” riddim production to feature non-Japanese artists. Although the sound produced isolated songs for top Reggae acts previously, they were unreleased. Sami-T scored an underground hit with “Surfers Anthem,” which he produced for JBoog in 2013. Mighty Crown has lots in store for Reggae fans in 2014, including more stellar music productions, touring with artists and of course, world touring. Through “Crown Revival,” Sami-T says Mighty Crown will celebrate foundation music and the essence of old time sound system culture “inna modern style.”
regional news gae Sumfest stage include Mr. Vegas, who recently scored with his hit, Party Tun Up (feat. Sean Paul and Fatman Scoop) as well as fellow deejay Spice, who recently collaborated with hip-hop superstar, Busta Rhymes on the remix of her So Mi Like It single. Reggae Sumfest 2014 will take place from July 13-19 at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay. Early bird tickets are now available on Reggae Sumfest’s official website.
Alkaline, Mr. Vegas and more confirmed for Dancehall Night at Reggae Sumfest Hailed as one of the most lyrical and controversial Dancehall artists in recent memory, emerging Jamaican deejay, Alkaline will be one of the headliners of this year’s edition of Reggae Sumfest. The artist, known for hits such as Church Folks, Moving Mountains and Lonely, is making his second appearance at the highly-acclaimed show, debuting last year on Dancehall Night to relative approval. Other big names expected to grace the Reg-
WORLD
News
New Bob Marley movie in the works A long-awaited film based on the true story of Reggae icon, Bob Marley and his band, Bob Marley and the Wailers could finally be coming to fruition after reports emerged that American film company, Mandalay Pictures are working on putting one together. The movie, titled after one of Marley’s most famous songs, Buffalo Soldiers, will chronicle the success and trials encountered by Marley and the Wailers throughout their highly successful run from the 1960s to the 80s. Oscar-winning writer, Barry Morrow, who wrote the popular 80s flick, Rain Man and producer, Cathy Schul-
His return for a guest appearance comes seven years after he was fired from the medical drama for making a homophobic slur. The episode saw him offer Sandra Oh’s Cristina Yang the chance to run a hospital in Zurich, after leaving her at the altar seven years ago. Isaiah exited the series in 2007 after an on-set clash the year before, in which an anti-gay epithet was directed at another cast member at the time, T.R. Knight. Burke and Yang reunited in the episode when she went to Zurich to speak in a conference that he had secretly organised in order to see her. After showing her that his hospital had developed a physical hologram of a patient’s heart to help surgeons before doing actual surgery, he asked if she would like to come and work at the hospital. When she suggested he was just saying that as a way to get her back in his life, he revealed that he had a wife and two children.
Isaiah Washington makes emotional return to Grey's Anatomy Lebanon in Actor Isaiah Washington reprised frenzy over his role as Dr. Preston Burke as Clooney he made an emotional return to engagement Grey's Anatomy in an episode which aired on Thursday evening in the US. 8
Word that Beirut-born Amal Alamuddin has stolen the heart of George Clooney has caused a
ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
man who was a part of another Oscar-winning movie, Crash are said to be behind the project. There is no word on the budget for the film or who will play Marley and co, nor is there word that the movie has been endorsed by members of the Marley family.
frenzy in Lebanon, where citizens are more used to bad news. In Baakline, the leafy home district of Alamuddin's father in the Lebanese mountains, Ramzi Sabbagh could hardly contain his enthusiasm. "She has made Lebanon and Baakline proud, given that she is originally from here,'' he said. Despite the excitement, few of Baakline's residents actually know Alamuddin, 36, whose family fled for Britain during Lebanon's 19751990 civil war. Alamuddin, who
was just three at the time, now holds British citizenship and is a lawyer specialising in international law and human rights. Soon after People magazine broke the news of her engagement to Hollywood's most coveted bachelor, Lebanese Internet users began expressing their delight. "Clooney engaged to a Lebanese woman is proof that we're the best,'' one user wrote on Twitter. "Only a Lebanese woman could make a husband out of Clooney,'' added another.
DREAM
GUY NAME: Chris Soonachan AGE: 28 HEIGHT: 6/2 WEIGHT: 185 CAREER: Computer Techni-
cian BRIEFS OR BOXERS: Boxers. FAVOURITE SCENT: Bvlgari. FAVOURITE THING: Gyming DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: Someone who is nice, someone who I get along with. Has a great personality, and a great sense of humor. Someone who likes me for who I am. Someone who will stick with me no matter what the situation. Someone who brightens up my day by
just looking at me. YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: Yes YOUR HERO: My Brother FAVOURITE FOOD: Lobster THE WAY TO YOUR HEART IS: kindness, trustworthiness and faithfulness. YOU’D NEVER DO: Take from the less fortunate, look down on others. WHAT ABOUT PETS: Love Animals THE ONE THING HE WANTS TO DO BEFORE HE DIES: Bungee jumping/sky
diving. FAVOURITE ARTIST: David Guetta FAVOURITE MUSIC: Techno, old school dub and hits from the 80’s. FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A MEAL: Home with loved ones (Family and Friends) HAVE YOU EVER CHEATED: No THE FREAKIEST THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE: Tried on a dress in a store. WHERE’S YOUR WEAK SPOT: Ear… Photos by Roger Jackson of Absolutpics
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model mania
Alias: Yvee (pronounced e-v) Age: 25 Occupation: Clerk Hobbies/Interests: pageantry, reading, theatre and the arts She has the look, but she also has the titles to back it up. Young model Yvonne Clarke is the current Miss Point Fortin Carnival and she was also crowned “Miss Naps” at the
esteemed Naparima Girls High School in 2004. A true pageant girl, Klarke’s personality often reflects that of the ever -caring altruist. For example, her personal dream is “To establish a shelter to assist in the fight against the abuse of children in my country.” Yet, Yvee remains a down-to-earth chick with as much ambition as she has stage charis-
12 ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
Photos by Stoneography Concepts
Yvonne Clarke
ma. Ultimately, this beauty would like to become a local ambassador via pageantry and to pursue international relations and television broadcasting. Who knows, maybe she will one day do a television segment for ET&T. In the meantime, she is all about her studies while she fulfills her day job as a clerk.
FASHION
Blushing Brides and Gorgeous Grooms
is the season for weddings. We know Trinbagonians love a good Boxing Day wedding as well, but you would hasten to agree that June brides are as commonplace as thorns in a rose bush. Here we stick to some tradiT tional bridal styles as the women don various white gowns, while the guys keep their choices equally simple.
No turning back. A flowing train and veil defines the demure elegance of the bride to be
Gone are the days of bulky gowns. This sleek outfit is for the natural woman
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On a well sculpted body, some dresses become art. This open shoulder design with an ornate base will turn heads
Stand above the rest even while seated. This dress with extra-large train is an eye-catcher
FASHION All White Everything. This cute couple’s couture reflects all that is pure about matrimony
Go retro with a loose-fit and suspenders reminiscent of the jazz era
When you look as sharp and put-together as this, it is no wonder why they call you “groom”
It is not quite the classic black and white, but this snazzy suit selection will make you stand out on your big day
www.amgtt.com •
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 15
BEAUTY
Consider Gifting A Pre-Wedding Spa Day
How Make-up and Spa Treatment can enhance your Beauty Image Written by Rhoshenda Ellis
E
veryday, young and old alike are bombarded by images of models with perfect bodies, perfect makeup and perfect skin. This has led to a never-ending cycle of a feeling of self-consciousness and a lack of love for oneself. The message that is being received by young people is that they are not enough and they never will be enough for the society in which they live. Young people lack the ability to love themselves because of the messages that these beauty advertisements send. In a conversation with Steven Mawer, owner of a local spa and distributor of a skincare and make-up line, he defined beauty as, “the ability to exhibit outside what you feel inside.” Using this definition, we will explore how make-up and spa treatment can be used to enhance one’s natural beauty. In the cosmetics market today, there are thousands of product lines advertising the natural look to men and women alike. However, some of these product lines use harmful chemicals that cause clogged pores and blemishes on the skin. Steven noted that the right make-up could boost your image. He said, “the right makeup helps to do this by blending in with your skin and softening your image.” He also noted that makeup should not be used to make you beautiful but to enhance your natural beauty to give you a finished look. The wrong make up can cause severe damage to your skin and so women and men should be cautious when experimenting with new product lines. A day at the spa is everyone’s dream. Frequent spa treatment can also be used to enhance natural beauty. Spa treatment services range from facials and face treatments to carotene treatment and full body massages. Frequent spa treatment is recommended for everyone who wears make-up daily since facials can be used to open and cleanse the pores. Ste16 ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
ven also expressed his views on spa treatment saying, “Facials can help reduce and remove blemishes thus providing the perfect canvas for any make-up artiste.” He also said that skin treatment often saves the skin from developing wrinkles and gives the skin a more youthful and vibrant image. As everyone also knows, the spa is the best place to relax and be pampered and according to Steven, “the less stressed you are, the more your inner beauty shines.” On that note, nothing beats a person with a beautiful personality. It doesn’t matter how much foundation you apply and how perfect your skin may look, if your personality doesn’t shine, then your beauty image is ruined. The packaging outside wouldn’t matter is the product inside is not of good quality. Therefore, along with your facials and makeup sessions, take some classes or time out for character development. Personal development is also a major aspect of beauty that should never be over-looked. The most confident and self-assured person can pull off any outfit.
ET&T
HOT
SEAT
Blaxx speaks on his career, kids and more!!
Written by Shera Diaz
A
family man and entertainer, Dexter ‘Blaxx’ Stewart, comes from a musical background. Being a part of many bands and currently a part of the band, Roy Cape All Stars and performing in various events, he still manages to keep his family and relationship a major part of his musical career. ET&T: When did your full-time entertainment career start? Blaxx: It was a really long time ago, roughly over 18 years ago. ET&T: Would you say, you came from a musical background? Blaxx: Yes I did, both my mom and dad were in the music industry. My mom was a singer, and we had a great relationship, she wrote one of my very first songs. I stared at a young age at church as well. ET&T: Who are some of your mentors? Blaxx: Leroy “Black Stalin” Calliste, Winston “Mighty Shadow” Bailey and Roy Cape. ET&T: How many children do you have? Blaxx: I have five kids. ET&T: Being a “family man”, how did you balance family and music? Blaxx: I continue to build a strong relationship with my family; all of my kids were born into my career, so they understand that I am an entertainer. This makes it easy for me to balance my life as an entertainer with my family. ET&T: Describe a situation where you had to put your job in front of your relationship and family? Blaxx: Being in this industry costs a lot. There was a year where I left my roof leaking to pay for a
recording, because it was so costly. I invested that money towards my career. ET&T: Have you ever written a song about your relationship? Blaxx: No. ET&T: Any project to look forward to in the future? Blaxx: Music and more music. I am staying away from the Soca Monarch competition. I have other plans for my career. ET&T: What is next for you? Blaxx: I am focusing on building myself musically and doing an album. Also, I want to assist or be a mentor for anyone who wishes to be a part of this type of industry. www.amgtt.com •
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 17
Point Fortin Borough Day Jouvert
events
ollowing last year’s Point Fortin Borough Day jouvert celebrations which were F halted abruptly due to a murder, several people opted to stay away from this year’s festivities. That does not mean there was a low turnout of revelers. As usual, the streets were crammed
with people from all over the country who chipped and swayed the day away. ET&T was present and we are sharing some of the sights with you. Hit up www.amgtt.com for more.
A colorful character
In full jouvert mode
One good reason to like Point
Five reasons to visit point
They showed their colours
Hello ladies…
Showing her swank
Nice hat
Bacchanal
Chip, chip, chip…
Friends pose
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In the swing of things
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 19
events
Tobago Jazz Experience
The sister isle doesn’t need anything to make it sweeter, but somehow the THA finds a way once a year to make this beloved destination bounce. The Tobago Jazz Experience took off on the heels of Easter and featured performances from foreigners John Legend, Brandy, Keyshia Cole and Earth Wind and Fire as well as a host of top local stars. Over 40,000 people flocked to Tobago for the week-long event which has a memorable one by all accounts. Here is some of the action.
Tarrus in the moment
John Legend in full effect
All the performances did not happen on stage
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
Ziggy Rankin with his media friend
CMY
K
All jazzed up for jazz
That’s a well-dressed woman
These two ladies enjoyed the festivities
Pun is Everywhere
Some Trinis enjoy the atmosphere
Enjoying the Pigeon Point flavour
20 ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
Keisha Cole turned it up backstage
Brandy has fun with the audience
events
FWA
un With Alcohol is one of Malice Entertainment’s events staF ples (and for good reason). This party always tends to generate big interest and our past experiences have assured us that there
would not be a shortage of vibes onboard when the boat sets sail. As usual, the Treasure Queen was the chosen vessel for the soiree and DJ’s such as Rapid Response ensured maximum pace throughout. Here is some of the action. For more, peep www.amgtt.com or view our Facebook page.
Creating an atmosphere
Posing solo
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Aww…
Taking a break for a photo
Blue… blue God loves you
Hair blowing in the wind
Friends smile
Thick chicks rock!
Risqué
He has every right to smile
Sunrise In Paradise
h what a night. It was a O night when all behavior was abandoned for the
events
betterment of endless fun aboard the Treasure Queen. While it may be viewed as just another boat ride to some, this event was a memorable one for all present for the festivities. ET&T was there and if you want to see what we saw; check out our Facebook page of peep www.amgtt.com for more.
Indo-Trini party swag
Keeping her close
They never miss the action
These ladies got all wet
Showing love for each other
Rocking a raunchy style
Junk in the trunk indeed
Palancing by herself
A dainty pose
Urban casual swag
Loving the ethnic look
Reserved, but happy
www.amgtt.com •
She had fun!
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 23
Casanova: Beached
EVENTS EXTRA s far as parties go, there is no denying the A lure of Casanova. The event hosted by Rave has undoubtedly been one of the most talked-
about for the last few years. This year, the buzz preceding the DDI party was decidedly a lot more muted than usual. Yet, fans of the party brand showed up to have their share of fun in the sun with the added attraction of water slides and more at the party’s coastal location. ET&T was there for the festivities and here are some photos in our Events Extra.
www.amgtt.com •
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 25
BAPS: The Sequel
hen Robert Townsend directed the infamous ode to ratchetness entitled B.A.P.S. it was an attempt to rectify a cerW tain level of ‘ghetto-ness’ through the powers of parody. Unfortu-
nately, some people took Halle Berry’s involvement in the film to reflect something positive. Misguided girls are following in the footsteps with over-the-top weaves, extreme gold accessories and raunchy outfits. At a recent party we happened to stumble in-to, it looked like the sequel to BAPS was being filmed.
The good thing is she can always use her pendant or bracelets as shields should anyone try to attack her during a robbery attempt. The bad thing is… everything else
All Gold Everything. These two girls look like extras for a Trinidad James video
Rocking the Kool-Aid red. Sweeeet!!!
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
paparazzi
Popular entertainment personality Devon Matthews spotted with his girlfriend at a recent event. Can you say GT?
Raymond Ramnarine shows some midperformance love to ET&T photographers at a Kite Flying event in the Queens Park Savannah
Mr. Renzo poses with former ET&T Dream Guy Sean Perryman at a party in Manzanilla
Yes ladies… A Linx sighting
www.amgtt.com •
MAY, 2014 • ET&T 27
celeb profile
Paula Patton
Name: Paula Maxine Patton Age: 38 (December 5, 1975) Profession: Actress Claim to Fame: Patton was born in Los Angeles, California, to Joyce, a schoolteacher, and Charles Patton, a lawyer. Her father is African-American and her mother is Caucasian. She graduated from Hamilton High School,
and then started college at UC Berkeley, transferring to USC Film School after her first year. After graduating magna cum laude from USC in 1997; she worked as a production assistant for several years before making the transition to acting. She landed a small part in 2005's Hitch and the female lead in Outkast's 2006
musical Idlewild. Her big break came when she portrayed the character Ms. Rain in 2009's Academy Award-winning film Precious. She also had notable roles in Deja Vu, Baggage Claim, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, Mirrors, Jumping the Broom and 2 Guns. Apart from securing several Hollywood roles, actress Paula Pat-
movies
Welcome the Summer M
appear at various points in this comedy.
Sex Tape Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel star as a married couple who wake up to discover that the sex tape they made the evening before has gone missing. This leads to a frantic search for its whereabouts. Rob Corddry, Jack Black and Rob Lowe are just a few of the other stars who
Hercules There was a recent release of Hercules featuring lesser known actors that hit the big screen so eyebrows would have been raised to see a new version following so soon after. However, the Brett Ratner factor has to be considered as he directs a cast which includes Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson, John Hurt, Ian McShane and Joseph Fiennes. The story revolves around Hercules, the Greek demigod, who has his life as a sword-forhire tested when the King of Thrace and his daughter seek his aid in defeating a tyrannical warlord.
ovie studios live for this period every year. It is the season when the blockbusters battle and even the quirkier genres pick up quick bucks due to the sheer number of theatre-goers. Here, we feature two of the first films to drop during peak time.
28 ET&T • MAY, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
ton is known for her relationship with Robin Thicke. Patton began dating the recording artist when they were both teenagers. They married on June 11, 2005. Together they have one son, Julian Fuego Thicke, who was born in April 2010. On February 24, 2014, Patton and Thicke announced their separation.
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