Dean Fraser Discusses “Two Colors” (@Tadsrecord)

Posted on June 26, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Last month I spoke with legendary guitarist Ernie Ranglin about his recently released album, Two Colors, done with saxophonist Dean Fraser. Because the twelve-track record was produced by both Dean Fraser and Tad ‘Jr. Tads’ Dawkins, I decided to speak with Dean to get some insights on the production. See our full conversation below.

Maria Jackson:Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this interview. I understand that you have a limited amount of time so I will just dive in.
In my recent conversation with Ernie Ranglin he said that you were the one that reached out to him to do this project. So my first question is why Ernie? I understand his musical accomplishments, but there are many other well established musicians in Jamaica, so why did you want to do Two Colors with Ernie Ranglin?

Dean Fraser:There’s no other like him mam, I wanted to do this years ago but never got the chance to, so when Tad Dawkins came to me with the thought, I had to make it happen. This is a special musician and a dream come true for me personally

Maria Jackson:Even though this is an instrumental album, you invited Big Youth on one of the tracks; what was your thinking behind that decision?

Dean Fraser:This just happened while recording the song, we wanted all Jamaica’s music to come out on this project. Jah Youth even though we categorize him as a DJ, I know him personally as a musical genius he listens to everything and knows a lot about Jazz so I chose him to be a guest

Maria Jackson:The titles that you have chosen for the songs on Two Colors are somewhat mysterious because there are no vocals to guide us as we listen. That said, what should we read into the following names: “Mi Nuh Kno,” “Nuh True,” “Sam-Fi,” “Joshua,” “Rangos” and “Papa R”? (I have my own interpretation for all the others)

Dean Fraser:Its Jamaican, so we use Jamaican slangs, terms; so the instrumentals speak for itself. Things Jamaica

Maria Jackson:What has the feedback been like since the full record came out?

Dean Fraser:When Wee Pow calls and says he need a special for Stone Love Sound you know this is a good record… breaking the barriers

Maria Jackson:You are always busy helping other artists in studio and on their shows, will you be doing a promo tour for Two Colors?

Dean Fraser:I have already been asked to do at lease 2 concerts and more will come

Maria Jackson:In my interview with Ernie he said that he hopes this is the start of a lot of collaborations between you two. Can you address that statement?

Dean Fraser:He’s such a humble and creative person I should be the one who’s saying that. It’s all good, we will work together always

Maria Jackson:You are such a musical giant. What drives you?

Dean Fraser:I just want to make good music all the time and we have enough talent in Jamaica to make lots of good music. I think I want to make a dancehall-trap project; it can and will be done

Maria Jackson:Finally, let me say thank you for Two Colors. It is a beautiful body of work that I personally enjoy listening. What do you want your fans and supporters to take away from this record?

Dean Fraser:The record was made with a passion for people to relax and enjoy irrespective of age, color or gender. I want people to drive to and from work listening to a Jamaican record that don’t disturb convo, play in the office, on your way to the country, having a drink, family reunion, just togetherness

Maria Jackson:Thank you Dean…

Dean Fraser: I thank u

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD “TWO COLORS”

Lutan Fyah & Renegad Denounces Violence In Jamaica In New Video “Land Of Paradise”

Posted on June 25, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Rebel Sound Records has just published the official video for Land of Paradise, a reality tune performed by Lutan Fyah and Renegad. On the rhythm, produced by Cally B of Small Axe Entertainment, the men talk about Jamaica’s high murder rate and the impact it is having on the nation.

The single went live on all digital streaming platforms at the beginning of June, while the video premiered on YouTube on the 23rd. If you have not yet seen it, check it out and remember to like, comment and share.

Samantha J Is Back & She Is Here To Stay! (@SamanthaJ)

Posted on June 23, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Jamaican model, singer and songwriter Samantha J, who rose to prominence in 2013 with the mega hit single Tight Skirt, has returned with a new song and video that’s meant to send a message to industry insiders: “I am back and I am not going anywhere. No one but God himself can change my destiny.”

The California based artist – who spent the last two years bonding with her son – admitted that the pandemic, although disruptive, gave her the time and space needed to reflect on her career and decide on the way forward. That period of contemplation resulted in the forceful dancehall-pop single Push Ya Luck, released on June 3rd, 2022 via Anka Music Group.

When asked what inspired the song, Samantha hinted at several things. One of which is being exploited by people both in her personal and professional life. She went on to say: “Push Ya Luck is really inspired by my determination and my love for music. I am the type of person that if you try to control me or say I can’t do something, it motivates me. That flips on a switch in my brain to prove you wrong and to do better in everything.”

The carefully coordinated official video, which was also shared on June 3rd, has already wracked up well over half-a-million views on her YouTube channel. It was directed by Damian Fyffe, with input from Samantha J and Derrick Morgan – Anka Music Group’s CEO.

“When you listen to Push Ya Luck my goal is to make sure you feel empowered in yourself to know that no one can walk all over you unless you allow it. Life is a journey where people don’t want to see you rise, but your passion, hardworking and determination will determine you destination.” The preceding is a statement from Samantha J.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD “PUSH YA LUCK” MP3

New Music Coming From Big Feet Records: “Torch – All Alone”

Posted on June 22, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

On July 1st, 2022, Big Feet Records – the little label that’s doing big things – will share an entrancing new single from Trench Town recording artist Torch.

Over the past two years or so, reggae enthusiasts have come to appreciate Big Feet Records‘ consistency in delivering quality roots reggae music. To date, the imprint has done tunes with some of the most respected names in the industry: Luciano, Ken Boothe, Chuck Fenda, Junior Kelly, and that is just to name a few.

Next month however, Josh Harris – the man behind the brand – will switch things up a bit by sharing Torch‘s All Alone; a song that can aptly be classified as rhythm-and-blues fused with soul. Followers of Torch and his music will be pleasantly surprised by this one!

LEARN MORE ABOUT BIG FEET RECORDS

Louie Culture Blesses Sacaj With “One More Day”

Posted on June 20, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Beloved veteran dancehall artist Louie Culture is featured on the brand new single from emerging singer Sacaj. Released on June 1 via ICI Records, the tune – titled One More Day – promotes discipline and hard work.

The official video was shared on the same day the song went live on streaming platforms. If you have not yet seen it, check it out and remember to like, comment and share.

Lutan Fyah Kicks Off Three-Day Stint In California This Week

Posted on June 20, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Rastafarian artist Lutan Fyah – with support from the Fyah Squad – will be doing a three-day mini tour in California this month.

The stint will begin this Friday, June 24th at Moe’s Alley in Santa Cruz; after which he and his crew will play at the Truckee Reggae Festival the following day (on the 25th); and then they will wrap up with a performance at HopMonk Tavern in Sonoma on June 27th.

Step Back Into “YesterYear” With Veteran Dancehall Artist Admiral Bailey

Posted on June 19, 2022 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

On Saturday, July 9th all roads will lead to Pier One in Montego Bay, Jamaica. There you will find an array of selectors playing the absolute best in 70s, 80s and 90s music. This retro dance – dubbed YesterYear – will feature a performance by the ‘big belly man’ himself, Admiral Bailey.

Entrance fee at the gate is $2,000 JMD; however, advance tickets which can be purchased at Pier One and Fontana Pharmacy in Montego Bay, are going for $1,500 JMD.