MY STORY ON SHABBA RANKS

90's Shabba Ranks - Still a Major Influence in the Reggae Industry Today

Where do I begin with Shabba Ranks.  I promise to give you a great article on all his many achievements in the music industry, including the records he broke, his influence on other artists and how his music has impacted generations of reggae lovers worldwide.

But this entry is on my story with Shabba Ranks.  Now Shabba is one of my favorite Reggae Artists he's part of the Top 7.  Just in case you're wondering who also has made my list of all time favorites, I will just name a few - well you already know Shabba Ranks is there, Buju Banton, Beenie Man, Capelton, Lone Ranger, Mad Cobra - and I'll stop right there.

Okay so when I was just a little girl in my wee teens (smile) all of my family members knew how much I loved Shabba Ranks.  Well for the first time in the States Shabba Ranks was coming to Queens.  He was performing live at the Legendary Q Club this was in October if my memory serves me right and I wasn't even 16 years of age yet.  Now my sister decided as an early birthday gift to take me to this concert.  I was super excited but was not the legal age to get into an establishment such as the Q.

So we went on Jamaica Avenue to shop for the appropriate I.D. that would show that I was 21 years of age.  After taking care of that and doing some shopping that weekend was one that I would never forget.

When we arrived at the Q Club and of course, successfully passed through security we found a nice spot across from the stage and I waited.  If my memory serves me right DJ Roy was the MC to introduce Shabba.  All I remember is watching him jump across the stage with the mic in his hands and he said "I'm not going to a circus, I'm not going to a fair - " and the rest is history.  I screamed, and screamed and had so much fun watching my A-1 DJ do his thing on the stage and of course doing all of his hits at the time.

That was the best Sweet 16 Gift anyone could have given anyone, but I was the recipient and I have the memories.  Now through out the years working in the Reggae Industry I have seen Shabba and watched him perform live.  Shabba Ranks live performances are energy packed and his moves - so tribal.  He's still a sexy Reggae Icon that holds his own with each performance.  So catching him live is a treat.  Yes there was a time where he took a hiatus so to speak from the industry and when he returned - well it was just GREAT to hear him on the air waves again.  In my opinion, musicians may take a break but they never totally abandon their God given talents.

Now as an adult, and not a 15 year old watching Shabba for the first time.  When I bump into Shabba it's always a pleasure and it's always professional and cordial.  I didn't share with him my story of when I was a bright eyed teenager until last year some time; just in the office away from all the people, bright lights and stage.  Shabba chuckled and said he should have been recording my story.

Shabba Ranks - Rexton Rawlston Fernando Gordon, also holds the title as King of the Dancehall, being one of the most popular artists within his era and as an International Reggae Artist who took Reggae music to mainstream and helped broaden it's horizons.  Simply Said Media gives you a 21 Gun Salute.  Just my way of saying "I'm proud."

Now I promise to give you a then & now about Shabba Ranks and list his groundbreaking achievements as well.  Not today but you know if I am going to give you a story let me at least present the Artist in the best way a writer can.

Till my next entry...

Shabba Ranks & Slim Perfection - @ Irie Jam Studios Winter 2k13

Shabba Ranks & DJ Roy @ Irie Jam Studios Winter 2k13

NEVER GIVING UP ON SELF

The Thoughts of a Rootsy Woman who takes Pride in her People

Hi there my loyal readers.  I must say as much as you click on a post & thank you so much for doing so.  Maybe, just maybe - take the time out & "follow me" so that I can keep you updated on all things Simply Said and current happenings within our community.  Not to mention meaningful commentary that should enhance or improve your state of mind as opposed to some of the garbage that we either fill our minds with or end up being subjected to.

Allrighty then - let's talk about self.  Questions number 1. 
Do you love yourself?  Take some time to answer that question.  Do not confuse selfish desires to loving yourself - there is a difference.  Let's take our bodies for instance.  Sickness can come from various sources.  Some of what causes our bodies to breakdown has a lot to do with what we are putting in our systems.  If you LOVE YOURSELF YOU WOULD NOT PUT HARMFUL THINGS AND/OR SUBSTANCES IN YOUR BODY THAT WOULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOU.  If you believe in the saying you are what you eat - then go by the rule I go by "Everything in moderation" too much of anything - is NOT good for you.  If you want tips on how to "Love yourself" feel free to comment below & we can start a convo from there.

See once you figure out that YOU are responsible for YOUR happiness and NOT others a light bulb will go on in that bright head of yours and by maintaining a positive perspective and/or attitude towards matters - all of a sudden you will begin to see the pieces of the puzzle come together.

Now my topic today is "Never giving up on Self".  You see when I walk in and around the neighborhood that I live in and see a grown man who doesn't appear to have missed a meal, perhaps even overweight to the average 6 foot plus black male and you're asking a woman for money and if I give it to you because after all I was taught to share if I have it.  Let me continue to paint the picture a grown man asking other people including myself for money.  Then later in the day you are sitting on a crate on the corner smoking a cigarette or something else, did I just fund your smoking habit?  Let me further paint the picture - a grown man with a name brand leather jacket on, appears as though he's living quite well AND HAS NEVER MISSED A MEAL.  Chooses to ask for money rather than attempting to use those hands on people skills to fill out a job application - not only did you give up on SELF but you've decided to LEAN on others and are content with just that.

What I hate to see in the community are the petty drug dealers that are still on the corners asking patrons as they enter stores if they smoke - because I guess you can buy a "loosy" from them and anything else that would be for sale.  The decisions that we make in life not only effects you the individual but the people around you as well.  The Petty Drug Dealer has GIVEN UP on attempting to make an HONEST DAY'S PAY.  Therefore giving up on self.

I'm sorry Ladies unfortunately, society, the entertainment industry and some women have given the red stamp approval to have you believe that a stripper's pole, having one, using one, being a stripper aka exotic dancer is a GREAT career choice.  As opposed to learning a trade or getting a college education.  For the younger generation to think that it is acceptable to aspire to be on a pole as opposed to a more reputable career where you are not subjected to being seen as only a piece of meat - well yeah with that scenario - you've given up on self.  I do not consider that as survival I see it as a cop out.

When I walk around the neighborhood and see countless people whose priorities consists of substance abuse (to drown or forget about their troubles), violence (because they've decided to loose control within their troubles) crime (because they've decided to break the law to remedy their troubles)  YES you have lost hope & given up on SELF.  

How do we break the cycle?  You can not go by society's fast paced point & click or touch & send speed.  As an individual YOU MUST STOP & PAUSE every day if you could, once a week is great, SELF EVALUATION & REFLECTION IS KEY.  If you can just stop for a second and do self inventory of your life and where you are going with it you can save yourself some serious heartache and stress.  It starts with you, your home, your surroundings and your community.

Trust me, what you do matters.  If you lost hope on the things that matter most to you, than you lost your way and have to do everything you possibly can to return to or restore that zeal you once had on life & your pursuits.

Don't give up on yourself - I haven't given up on you - believe in YOURSELF as I believe in YOU.

Till my next entry...

 

SOULMATE RETURNS TO THE LUXURIOUS RESORTS WORLD CASINO

November 22, 2K14, Irie Jam Radio Presents "Soulmate" @ the Resorts World Casino in Queens

Did you attend Soulmate 2K13 or Soulmate 2K12?  Either way plan to attend Soulmate 2K14.  It intimately goes down at the elegant and luxurious Resorts World Casino located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd.  In Jamaica, Queens.

Soulmate is the Ultimate Lover's Party; it's where you take your Baby, your Boo, your Wife, your Hubby, your Empress, your Kingmon.  Irie Jam Radio intends to transform the already Lavish Penthouse of the Casino into a Lovers Cove with beautiful tapestry enhancing all the VIP areas, your own bar & bottle service, decedent treats and music to bring back all the wonderful memories you've shared with your Love or the new ones you will be making.

Soulmate is also a party for the Singles too, you can find your Soulmate there.  Here's a chance for you to go out, and get dressed with your girls and vice versa for the guys and meet that special someone that caught your eye from across the room.  

Bring your dancing shoes and be musically entertained by Stone Love, Massive B, Road International, Dubbmaster Chris & DJ Cali B.  Expect to hear music from every era.  Expect to enjoy the company of your Love & the ambiance of a real upscale event.

Simply Said Media will be in the building and I will provide you with my wrap up of Soulmate as soon as I possibly can.  But you should plan on being there too!  Early bird tickets are moving fast - you can purchase online at www.iriejamradio.com or visit the select tickets outlets throughout the tri-state area.  You can tune into Irie Jam Radio on WVIP 93.5FM and listen for your chance to win your way in... Listen anyway - but secure your tickets today!

Feel free to call the Irie Jam Radio Headquarters at 718.723.4743 for more information.  Soulmate is New York City's Premier Singles & Lover's Party.

I'll see you @ the Casino - till my next entry....

THE POSE OFF MODELS WILL HAVE TO BRING IT! ON SUNDAY, DEC.7TH

Simply Said Media Presents "Pose Off" on Sunday, December 7, 2K14

I am busy as a beaver, talking to way cool people like Pejay Modeste, look her up on Facebook, she and her team were responsible for my Hair & Make-up at last year's Pose Off, not to mention all of the models.  Yes she is off the chains and I suggest for your special events or just to pamper yourself contact Pejay Modeste.  Her styling sense, creativity & beautiful personality makes your hair & make-up experience a great one.

Now I just wanted to share with you the flyer that will be in circulation.  Kudos to Tyrone Entertainment and his expertise.  Let me take this opportunity to thank my current sponsors, Renzo Lee Media, Irie Jam Radio - WVIP 93.5FM,  Tyrone Entertainment, Big Ackee Music,  & Golden Krust - Pitkin Avenue so far.

Producing a fashion show can be hairy, tedious, and hard for some.  I take it all with a smile and passion.  I enjoy meeting people and I especially enjoy the opportunity to meet aspiring models who just need an extra boost of confidence and polishing to be fit for the Runway.  I do have the gift of unlocking an individuals potential in the area of Performance Arts so using that gift is my way of giving back.

Well my hands maybe typing this second as my mind conjures up the next phase of activity to make this years' installation of "Pose Off" a success.

See you on Dec. 7th - till my next entry...

 

CATCHING UP WITH DANCEHALL VETERAN RED FOX

Dancehall Veteran Red Fox and Slim Perfection @ Pose Off 2k13, Pose Off 2k14 is underway!

Hey everyone - hope your week is going smoothly.  It's all about the Winter Edition of Pose off which is set to take place at Magnet Sports and Entertainment Center in Elmont, NY on Sunday, December 7th 2K14.

Designers already confirmed include MichelleRenee, Joillette Mode, Exclusive Couture and other superb Designers.  Yes I'm teasing you and dare not tell you everything in one entry.

The picture above is Red Fox and I ,as I gave him his Recognition Slip at last year's Pose Off.  Dubbmaster Chris of Irie Jam Radio, WVIP 93.5FM was also a recipient of Recognition both awarded for their contribution to the Reggae Industry.

Who knows who will be this years Honorees, - I know who, you don't (smile).  Perhaps I will drop a name or two closer to the day of the show.

Admission is just $15, reasonably priced - for a party of two just $30 bucks.  You will be delightfully entertained by yours truly - I will be your host for the evening.  If you never caught me hosting an event; then yeah come out.  I will keep you in stiches while running a smooth production.

The Winter Edition of Pose Off promises to be fab for both men & women.  It's right before the holidays so of course we have some great apparel to get you ready for Christmas, Kwanzaa Hanukkah, New Year's Eve, Valentine's Day.  

The designers that will be featured for this years Pose Off all come with tasteful, trendy garments and accessories perfect from anytime day wear to the cocktail party to the formal event straight to your intimate settings.

So mark your calendars for Sunday, December 7th - Doors open @ 7PM - Showtime's at 8!

Till my next entry...

MY BROTHER FROM ANOTHER MOTHER, KING OF THE DANCE HALL - BEENIE MAN

LABOR DAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND WITH THE DOCTOR BEENIE MAN

Yes I am late in giving you my holiday happenings - but Thanksgiving is coming and so is Christmas, Kwanzaa and other notable holidays.  During the holiday season most folk spend their time with family, friends and loved ones.  Speaking of family - although we don't have the same Mother or Father, Beenie Man, Ras Moses, The Doctor, The King of the Dance Hall, The girls dem Suga, I can keep going with titles is like a brother to me.  I have known this musical genius for SO MANY YEARS and there is never a time where he doesn't take the time out to acknowledge, chat, catch up - etc.  

Usually during his bookings and movements to the back stage area if I am put on Artist Hospitality that day I make sure that he is well taken care of.  Hey it's part of the job, but more importantly if anyone knows me and I have you on my clipboard for artist detail - you are in good hands.  It's always a pleasure to be in his presence and company because he's simply a Real Individual where his humility and humorous spirit exudes from him first and those are great characteristics to have.

Since we are on the topic of Beenie Man and musical genius' - Beenie Man has what we call Artist longevity.  He is indeed an Entertainer full of energy who has mastered his craft.  I could never get tired of being a witness to his performances or listening to his dynamic catalog.

One year at a Kings in Action concert in Queens - I'm backstage specifically to hail him up since he's in my neck of the woods and of course we greet with a big hug & kiss.  Well a journalist was there covering the event and recording footage from all aspects of the event & his tour that year.  So the journalist looks at Beenie & myself and says "Oh my gosh is that your sister?"  Beenie and I both looked at each other and started cracking up like (yeah we all look alike).  She took so many pictures of us, I can't imagine what the caption was for whatever magazine she worked for.  

Anytime you come across an individual and you happen to "favor" by the opinions of others or even if you are in agreement; just know that it's a "tribal" thing.  We all our walking maps of our ancestral tracks, bloodlines of generations nestled into 1 vessel, that being YOU of course.  So If we favor okay, I count it all joy.  Music is Life - & Life without Music would be such a boring existence.

Yes I will be working backwards on footage, events then working ahead with great places to go for the holidays.  So while I have the energy to type away - I'll keep the stories coming.

Till my next entry...

FASHION FORWARD - FASHION FUN - FASHION CASTING - HERE WE COME!!!

Magnet Sports & Entertainment Center in Elmont, NY will forever be changed - Fashionably!

 I know what you want to say - where have I been?  Let me apologize for my absence but I'm sure you understand the seasonal swings of a writer.  I do have lots of pics to share with you since my last entry.  What I did for the Summer, how I expect to spend my Winter.  Most importantly, my next series of projects to help you welcome in Fall and embrace Winter.

So "Pose Off" is set to take place on Sunday, December 7, 2014 at Magnet Sports & Entertainment Center in Elmont, NY.  The complete address is 241-05 Linden Blvd., Elmont, NY 11003.  It's the borderline of Queens so NYC Fashionistas & Fashion Forward Gents - don't you worry about a thing.

Now if you are an aspiring model (I've been in the business for a while so yes I train and do provide training) or an established model here's an opportunity for you to consider.  BE AT THE CASTING ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2014 FROM 3-6PM @ MAGNET.  I would love to meet you and we can discuss your goals and fashion friendly pursuits.

I do have lots of catching up to do with you - and I also have some great programs to share with you for the last quarter of 2014 and looking ahead into 2015.  All things are possible by the Grace of the Great One that sits high and looks below.  

Well I have loads of work to do, preparing, networking, reaching out to people like you and other industry professionals.  Let's get together and have a successful casting.  

I will start telling you about the confirmed designers SOON.  So far the line up is simply magnificent.

Call 631.392.8502 or email simplysaidmedia@gmail.com for any and all inquiries.
 
I'll see you on Sunday - October 26th, till then....