Troots Music & Optimum Productions Collaborate On Uplifting Dancehall Single “United Selves”

Two of London’s newest and most prolific record labels – Troots Music and Optimum Productions – have come together to share their latest concerted offering: United Selves.

Performed by Randy Valentine and Star BingiUnited Selves shines light on the relentless struggles some of us go through on a daily basis, and the importance of reliance on one’s own powers and resources rather than those of others. The men get specific as they drill down on how an attitude of self reliance is key in their respective careers as recording artists within the competitive music industry.

The rhythm for United Selves was composed, mixed and mastered by Randy Valentine at Troots Music Studio in South London. When asked what inspired the record he said the following: “Randy and Star Bingi have been collaborating for a few years now. This song marks the ongoing tradition of “a better me makes a better we” inspired heavily by the teachings of Marcus Garvey. A individual who champions Self Reliance and accountability not only as a means of survival but as a way of life.”

Although United Selves was officially published on April 1st, 2022, it was actually recorded a few years ago.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD “UNITED SELVES”

Freddie McGregor, Richie Spice & Agent Sasco Are On The Lineup For H&L’s Anniversary Concert This Sunday (@1RichieSpice)

Hardware & Lumber Jamaica will be having their Anniversary Concert this Sunday, April 10th. They have called on some of the biggest names in reggae-dancehall to give their customers a treat.

Confirmed artists are: Freddie McGregor, Richie Spice, Agent Sasco, Govana and Tanya Stephens. This is a virtual concert that will be accessible to only a few loyal members. Click here to sign up.

Morris Day, SWV & Trina Will Headline The 2022 “Old School & Blues Festival” Next Month

The 2022 Old School & Blues Festival, the longest running urban event in Northern Alabama, will take place on May 28th at Huntsville Dragway – 502 Quarter Mountain Road – in Harvest, Alabama. Starting time is 11AM EST.

The lineup includes: Morris Day, SWV, Trina, Jon B. Meli’sa Morgan, Lenny Williams, Calvin Richardson, Levelle, Ronnie Bell and Brick. It’s being presented by JD Entertainment. Get tickets here.

Veteran Reggae Artist Mikey General Shares First Single From His Upcoming Album

Veteran reggae artist Mikey General, who has been in the music industry for well over forty years, is getting ready to drop a new album. The upcoming project, titled Hold A Heights, is a collaborative effort with Kris Kemist of the UK based label, Reality Shock Records.

The men have just shared the LP’s lead single, “Love.” It was produced jointly by Kris Kemist and Michael Taylor (Mikey General). Drums were played by Horseman, Brass by Booom Hornz, guitar solo by Rocky Chessman and all other instruments were done by Kris KemistIndra Rudder added the backing vocals.

Mikey General is recognized as one of the leading reggae artists of his generation and someone who is known for penning inspirational lyrics.
On Love he asks:
“What is Love
What does it mean
Where is the source of something so pure & clean”

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN & DOWNLOAD “LOVE”

Catch Iwer George & Farmer Nappy In Toronto On April 14th

Soca lovers in Toronto are in for a treat on Thursday, April 14th (Easter weekend). This is because the Dynamic Crew – DOC, Soca Vibes, Bad Lad and D’ Bandit – will present a live concert featuring performances by Iwer George, Farmer Nappy, Yung Bredda, Jaxx and DJ Elon.

Location is the Grand Cinnamon Banquet and Convention Centre at 3985 McNicoll Avenue in Scarborough. Get tickets and additional information here.

Hip-Hop And R&B Winners At The 2022 Grammys

Here are the hip-hop and R&B winners from the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, held on Sunday, April 3rd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Best R&B Performance:
Jazmine SullivanPick Up Your Feelings

Best Traditional R&B Performance:
H.E.R.Fight for You

Best R&B Song:
Silk SonicLeave the Door Open

Best Progressive R&B Album:
Lucky DayeTable for Two

Best Melodic Rap Performance:
Kanye West, The Weekend, Lil BabyHurricane

Best Rap Song:
Kanye West, Jay-ZJail

Best Rap Album:
Tyler, the Creator Call Me If You Get Lost

Best Rap Performance:
Baby Keem, Kendrick LamarFamily Ties

J.C. Lodge Among Performers For The Aries Birthday Celebration On April 17th

Sunday Serenade Aries Birthday Celebration is an event being presented by Hawkeye & The Rum Punch Crew. Its objective is to honor everyone who rules under the first astrological sign in the zodiac: Aries.

The concert, which will feature performances from J.C. Lodge, John McLean and Johnny Orlando, takes place on Sunday, April 17th at Oakington Manor Hill on Oakington Manor Drive in Wembley, UK.

Aside from the live show, additional music will be provided by selectors Dr. Hawkeye, Groovemaster and Papa Wini.