2020 TALLAWAH MUSIC AWARDS: The Complete List of Nominations

RECORD OF THE YEAR 

“Best of Me” 

Romain Virgo 

“Breaking News” 

Dexta Daps 

“Hamants Convo” 

Govana 

“Lockdown” 

Koffee 

“Promise” 

Popcaan 

“Royalty” 

Protoje feat. Popcaan 

“Then You… And Me” 

Vybz Kartel 

“Together We Stand” 

Richie Spice 

“Trust” 

Buju Banton

“Win” 

Jada Kingdom 

SONG OF THE YEAR 

“Breaking News” 

Dexta Daps 

“Carry Me” 

Kevin Downswell 

“Lockdown” 

Koffee 

“Memories” 

Buju Banton feat. John Legend 

“Never Make Her Sad” 

Romain Virgo 

“People Like You” 

Gramps Morgan 

“Royalty” 

Protoje feat. Popcaan 

“The Sidechick Song” 

Shenseea 

“Together We Stand” 

Richie Spice 

“Win” 

Jada Kingdom 

ALBUM OF THE YEAR 

Fixtape 

Popcaan 

Higher Place 

Skip Marley 

In Search of Lost Time Jamaica 

Protoje 

Now I Rise 

Dre Island 

The Experience 

Lila Iké 

To Tanesha 

Vybz Kartel 

Upside Down 2020 

Buju Banton 

BEST NEW ARTISTE 

Answele 

Indie Allen 

Jafrass 

Jaz Elise 

Khalia 

Maestro Don 

Tamo J 

BEST REGGAE SONG 

“24 HRS” 

Bugle 

“Be Okay” 

Dre Island feat. Jesse Royal 

“Frustration” 

Jafrass 

“Got To Be Tough” 

Toots & the Maytals 

“I Am a Jamaican” 

Buju Banton 

“It’s Alright” 

Chalice feat. Wayne Armond 

“More Strength” 

Busy Signal 

“Never Make Her Sad” 

Romain Virgo 

“Pressure” 

Koffee 

“Together We Stand” 

Richie Spice 

BEST DANCEHALL SONG 

“Aircraft” 

Aidonia

“Bandulu” 

Squash 

“Breaking News” 

Dexta Daps 

“Cree” 

Alkaline 

“Me, Myself and I” 

Rygin King 

“Mr. Universe” 

Skillibeng 

“Number Don’t Lie” 

Popcaan 

“Rich” 

Masicka 

“The Sidechick Song” 

Shenseea 

“Watch Dem” 

Ding Dong 

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 

Comar Campbell (Frankie Music) 

Dane Ray 

Jordan McClure (Chimney Records) 

Romeich Entertainment Rvssian 

Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor 

ZJ Chrome 

BEST COLLABORATION 

“Cane Fields” 

Natural High feat. Wayne Marshall, Jesse Royal and Kabaka Pyramid 

“It’s Alright” 

Chalice feat. Wayne Armond 

“Lighter” 

Tarrus Riley feat. Shenseea and Rvssian 

“Memories” 

Buju Banton feat. John Legend 

“One World, One Prayer” 

The Wailers feat. Shaggy, Skip Marley, Farruko and Cedella Marley 

“Pioneer” 

Maestro Don feat. Bounty Killer 

“Royalty” 

Protoje feat. Popcaan 

“Same Prayer” 

Chronixx feat. Kabaka Pyramid 

“Slow Down” 

Skip Marley feat. H.E.R

“Something New” 

D Major feat. Busy Signal 

BEST GOSPEL ARTISTE 

Chozenn 

Christopher Gayle 

DJ Nicholas 

Jermaine Edwards 

Kevin Downswell 

Levy’s Heritage 

Rondell Positive 

BEST GOSPEL SONG 

“Carry Me” 

Kevin Downswell 

“Come” 

Christopher Gayle 

“Na Sell Out God” 

Levy’s Heritage 

“One Dose (of the Holy Ghost)” 

Treisha Williams 

“Our Response” 

David Sutton 

“The Mirror” 

Rondell Positive 

“Watch Over Me” 

Jermaine Edwards 

BEST ALTERNATIVE/SOUL/R&B/CLASSICAL ARTISTE 

Chevaughn 

Dalton Harris 

Dean Fraser 

Khalia 

Natel 

Sevana

Shaun Antoine 

* Special 2020 Category * 

BEST COVID-19 LIVE PERFORMANCE 

Agent Sasco – Sascoustic Live 

Buju Banton – “All Will Be Fine” (BET) 

Chronixx – Irie Jam Virtual Concert Series 

Dalton Harris – “Graveyard” 

Konshens – Digicel Unplugged 

Romain Virgo – Digicel Unplugged 

Tessanne Chin – Digicel Unplugged 

BEST REGGAE ARTISTE – Male 

Buju Banton 

Bugle 

Chronixx 

Dre Island 

Jahmiel 

Protoje 

Richie 

Spice 

Romain Virgo 

Skip Marley 

Tarrus Riley 

BEST REGGAE ARTISTE – Female 

Etana 

Koffee 

Lila Iké 

Naomi Cowan 

Queen Ifrica 

Shuga 

Tanya Stephens

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR 

Children of the Icons Tour 

Dennis Brown Tribute Concert 

Digicel Unplugged series 

Jamaica Rum Festival concerts 

Reggae Wednesdays in the Park 

Reggae Sumfest 2020 

Sagicor 50th Anniversary concert 

BEST MALE VOCAL PERFORMANCE 

“Carry Me”

Kevin Downswell

“Cry” 

Dalton Harris 

“Little Apples” 

Christopher Martin 

“Lost My Heart” 

Kumar Bent 

“Never Make Her Sad” 

Romain Virgo

“People Like You” 

Gramps Morgan

“Something Special” 

Gyptian 

BEST FEMALE VOCAL PERFORMANCE

“Forget Me” 

Lila Iké 

“I Can’t Breathe” 

Queen Ifrica 

“Mango” 

Sevana 

“One Night” 

Tanya Stephens 

“Quarantine” 

Ce’Cile

“Rock My Body” 

Etana 

“Win” 

Jada Kingdom 

BEST DANCEHALL ARTISTE – Male 

Alkaline 

Dexta Daps

Ding Dong 

Govana 

Konshens 

Popcaan 

Rygin King 

Squash 

Teejay 

Vybz Kartel 

BEST DANCEHALL ARTISTE – Female 

Ce’Cile

Ishawna 

Jada Kingdom 

Lisa Hyper 

Macka Diamond 

Shenseea 

Spice 

BEST MALE VIDEO 

“24 HRS” – Bugle 

Director: Damaniac Visuals 

“Best of Me” – Romain Virgo 

Director: Kurt Wright 

“Dela Move” – Chronixx 

Director: Nabil 

“Nice Up the Dance” – Kabaka Pyramid 

Director: 300K 

“Royalty” – Protoje 

Director: Storm Saulter 

“Then You… And Me” – Vybz Kartel 

Director: Jay Will 

“Trust” – Buju Banton 

Director: Kieran Khan 

BEST FEMALE VIDEO 

“Climbing” – Naomi Cowan 

Director: Kia Moses 

“Could It Be” – Jah 9 

Director: Samo Kush and Fernando Hevia 

“Forget Me” – Lila Iké 

Director: Shane Creative 

“Mango” – Sevana 

Director: Sevana and Yoram Savion 

“Truly” – Etana 

Director: Prof and Krys Rass 

“W” – Koffee 

Director: Matt Baron 

“We are Jamaica” – Sakina Deer

Director: Patrick Brown 

VIDEO OF THE YEAR: Viewers’ Choice Award 

“Dela Move” – Chronixx 

Director: Nabil 

“Mango” – Sevana 

Director: Sevana and Yoram Savion 

“Royalty” – Protoje 

Director: Storm Saulter 

 “Then You… And Me” – Vybz Kartel 

Director: Jay Will 

“Trust” – Buju Banton 

Director: Kieran Khan 

“W” – Koffee

Director: Matt Baron 

“We are Jamaica” – Sakina Deer 

Director: Patrick Brown

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2021 GRAMMYS: Buju Banton, Skip Marley head list of contenders for reggae prize

BEST OF THE BEST: The 5 albums vying for music's highest honour.

IN 2005, Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley scored two Grammy nods: Best Reggae Album for Welcome to Jamrock and Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the single of the same name – a rare accomplishment for Jamaican and Caribbean artistes. Marley went on to win in both categories.

Fast forward almost two decades later and his nephew Skip is nominated in two categories: Best Reggae Album for Higher Place and Best Reggae Song for his chart-topping collaboration “Slow Down” with H.E.R. 

But to take home the coveted awards, Skip Marley has some stiff competition, especially in the reggae field. Buju Banton could secure his second career Grammy win for his critically acclaimed comeback disc Upside Down 2020; The Wailers are nominated for One World; Maxi Priest is in the running with It All Comes Back to Love, while the late Toots Hibbert (and the Maytals) made the cut with Got to Be Tough.

The winner will revealed come Sunday, Jan. 31. 

Meantime, R&B-pop superstar Beyoncé leads this year’s pack of nominees with nine bids, including four mentions for her hit protest anthem “Black Parade.” Dua Lipa, Roddy Rich and Taylor Swift each picked up six nominations. 

Talk show host Trevor Noah will host the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards ceremony will be broadcast on CBS, live from the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.

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LIFE & STYLE: MasterCard says Koffee’s The One / Tastemakers Brett and Leisha Wong host ‘Remy’ party / The wonders of natural lighting

THE PERFECT CHOICE: The new MasterCard ad captures a heartwarming mother-daughter moment between Koffee and her momma Jo-Anne Williams. Helping families connect has always been of paramount importance for the team at MasterCard, who have appointed the Grammy winner their first Caribbean ambassador. “[She] is one of Jamaica’s youngest and most gifted musical talents, and she remains grounded and humble and finds time to give back to the community,” says Marcus Carmo, head of marketing for the company’s Caribbean division. “The decision to partner with her was an easy one, as her authenticity, creativity and spirit of philanthropy are aligned with our own values.” And Koffee is super-thrilled to serve as ambassador. “I am very excited to be a part of MasterCard’s initiative,” she says, “to educate, increase financial literacy and help Jamaicans reach their financial goals.” 

FINE COMPANY: On November 6, power couple Brett and Leisha Wong played hosts for a Frenchmen’s Remy Martin VIP tasting at their tony upper St. Andrew digs, for an evening of good friends, good vibes and great wine. L-R: The fab couple shared a moment after welcoming guests; Stephen Price was super-happy to score an invite; Brett Wong shows off the good stuff; Great taste! A swell time was had by all. 

A LIGHT TOUCH: For author and interior design maven Justina Blakeney, few elements make a room more inviting and relaxing than natural light. “Figure out ways to harness natural light. If you don’t have a lot of windows, hang mirrors opposite your windows to help magnify the amount of light that comes in,” she advises. “The places where we spend our time can really affect our mood.”

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MADE IN JAMAICA: Three cool things you should know about

HEAVEN ‘SCENT’: Set the mood with Allay Scent candles. Containing natural essential oils, these are 100% eco-friendly soy candles whose ‘flavours’ range from lavender, peppermint and eucalyptus to mangosteen, orchid and grapefruit. 

FORM & FUNCTION: With the gift-giving season right around the corner, you might want to consider items from Baughas Design Studio, which specializes in Jamaican hand-craft pieces, including ceramics, lighting and other home fixtures, as well as woods, clays and porcelains. 

EXOTIC BLEND: Who better to venture into culinary product design than a pro with a knack for tantalizing tastebuds? Chef/entrepreneur Lucian Dunn has brought to restaurant tables and supermarket shelves his Mosaic Foods Pepper Jelly, a flavourful condiment years in the making. With an “improved recipe” of home-grown ingredients, it’s sure to spice up your favourite dishes.

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TALLAWAH BOOK CLUB: JC’s rich history and legacy / K. Sean Harris takes us behind the music / Three distinctive new women’s voices

IN HER SHOES: “Sometimes we forget that we have a voice we can use to inspire other women around us, women who share the same struggles and cannot seem to find their way out,” says Patrice Simpson. Living up to her beliefs, the young first-time author has published SHE, a collection of vignettes inspired by the struggles and myriad experiences of everyday women. Featuring 70 pieces, the self-published effort explores intimate relationship matters, emotional and physical abuse, self-esteem and depression. Simpson, who became an unemployed single mother in 2017, hopes her book strikes a chord with women of all walks. “We all go through something in life,” says the Falmouth native, “but we can all be victors if we believe in our capabilities. I encourage [you] to think positively through all adversities.” 

HUSTLE AND FLOW: Dancehall Don, the latest from prolific home-grown storyteller K. Sean Harris, follows talented schoolboy Trystan, who transforms himself into a fierce dancehall entertainer named 6Lock. Before long, 6Lock ascends to the top of the industry, buoyed by his lyrical skills, chart-topping hits and the kind of street smarts that keep haters, detractors and gold-diggers in check. True to the Harris formula, Dancehall Don delivers “a gritty and entertaining” thrill ride, while exploring ambition, human relationships, family and revenge served ice-cold. 

HEAD OF THE CLASS: If there’s one thing Dr. Kasan Troupe knows, it’s how to improve student performance. Her foremost concern? The increasing importance that parental engagement must play in improving kids’ grades. In her new book, Education’s Missing Link, the veteran educator offers a “well-researched” and “comprehensive” study filled with practical advice and strategies to foster greater home-support engagement for student success. 

HALLS OF LEARNING: Jamaica College: A Sugar Planter’s Legacy by renowned old boys Hylton Dennis and Ian Andrews chronicles the fine achievements of the St. Andrew-based school’s distinguished alumni as well as its unsung heroes, while highlighting sports achievements and the great possibilities that lie ahead for the venerable institution. 

>> From our readers: Doin’ Hair by Pauline Binder 

Binder spins a “rollicking” and “laugh-out-loud funny” tale about Charlene and Neva, two immigrant Jamaicans trying to make their way in the Bronx, New York, while grappling with issues concerning friendships and family and sisterhood.

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HOT TOPIC: What gave Golding the edge over Hanna?

HE HITS THE 'MARK': Golding and his supporters celebrate his ascension to the party presidency.

A new era has dawned for the People’s National Party. On Saturday, November 7, Mark Golding was elected to succeed Dr. Peter Phillips as president of the nearly 80-year-old organization, which is still smarting from September’s massive General Election defeat – and a gaping divisiveness that threatens to crumble the party’s foundations. 

For many, Hanna was a clear frontrunner to take the reins from Phillips, but Golding rapidly gained on her in a close race that eventually resulted in a 296-vote win for the Southern St. Andrew MP. So what gave Golding the edge? Senior party insiders and public commentators have been weighing in. Here’s a sample of what they’ve been saying. 

>> “Under the leadership of Mark Golding we will see people calling for the PNP, the majority of [Jamaicans] calling or the PNP within a couple years….. It was no secret that the party was at a financial low when I took over as General Secretary. A year or two later, Mark Golding came on board as treasurer and his fundraising ability at that time was instrumental in turning around the fortunes of the party.” – Peter Bunting 

>> “He brings a lot of know-how, knowledge and is equipped with an understanding of where the party ought to go. By now he would be very much aware that the most critical and important thing right now is to unite the party. I believe that he is up to it and I believe that he will do it.” – Delano Franklyn 

>> “Mark Golding is a strategic thinker, and in any modern political organization this is a much-needed trait… [He] is a man of impeccable integrity and character. Let us be reminded that 63 percent of the Jamaican electorate never voted in the last election, and this is largely attributed to the growing trust deficit in our political leaders. Mark’s character and integrity will aid in this rebuilding of public trust.” – Dr. Floyd Morris

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LIFE & STYLE: Lisa Hanna’s fashion game-plan / Celebs add star power to Grace’s new cooking series / Why chocolate is good for you

‘PARTY’ GIRL: Get Lisa Hanna’s fab on-the-campaign-trail style 

The trendsetting fashionista and PNP presidential contender consistently scores high marks for her appealing mix of feminine silhouettes and sharply tailored fits. L-R: Piping Praise women's jacket; Etro Women's Silk Crepe Palazzo Pants; Parisis Black/Ebony belt bag; Bob Marley Jamaica crew-neck graphic tee...

HOME COOKING: Grace Foods whets appetites with new online series 

Ever coming up with up-to-the-minute ways of connecting with consumers at home and abroad, Grace Foods has kicked off an online cooking show, Chillin’ with Grace. It’s a Jamaican foodie’s treat. Hosted by the lovely Talia Soares, it has already featured such guests as sprinting sensation Briana Williams, dancehall hotshot Ding Dong and Jill-of-all-trades Yendi Phillips showing off their culinary skills and sharing top-secret recipes with viewers. Watch episodes on YouTube and via Grace’s Facebook page. 

SO GOOD: The awesome benefits of consuming chocolate According to dieticians and nutrition experts, what makes dark chocolate healthy is its high cocoa (or cacao) content. Cocoa contains flavonoids, which are essentially antioxidants that can help decrease inflammation and improve heart health. Dark chocolate, with at least 70% cocoa, has the strongest benefits. 

EXPRESS SERVICE: Get your favourite fast food meals delivered to your home or office via hellofoodja.com. Download their app on Google Play and via the App Store. Call them at 876-619-MEAL and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @hellofoodja.

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NEWS FEED: New ODPEM head appointed / MPs to get $3M each for flood-damage repairs / 'One Laptop or Tablet Per Child' initiative launched

THE MAN FOR THE JOB: Leslie Harrow is the new Director-General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Harrow, a career civil servant known for his work with the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ), takes the up the post effective November 2. In confirming the appointment, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie hailed Harrow as a fine choice for this very important job. "I am confident that his skills and experience will serve the agency and country well. He assumes office at a particualrly busy time, as ODPEM discharges its responsibilities in the midst of the current, intense weather systems," the minister said. "[Harrow] brings to the [post] over 23 years of service in the public sector."

DAMAGE CONTROL: Close to $2 billion will be spent under a newly announced programme by the Holness administration for repair and rehabilitation works to be undertaken across the island as a result of the recent flood damage. Each Member of Parliament will receive $1.5 million from the Housing Fund to assist with house repairs, while another $1.5 million [each] from the Labour and Social Security mininstry will go towards rehabilitation grants for the neediest cases identified in the constituencies. "This is the start," PM Andrew Holness told Parliament. "And as we go through and decide on reallocations, we may be able to do more." 

E-LEARNING: Eliminating [the digital] divide begins with the Government and the private sector coming together, as we are doing here, to put a laptop or tablet in the hands of every Jamaican child, especially those familiies near or below the poverty line," said Education minister Fayval Williams, addressing the recent virtual launch of the 'One Laptop or Tablet Per Child' initiative on Thursday. The Government is providing approximately 148,000 PATH programme students with devices. Still, an additional 100,000 students (not on the programme) are in need. The estimated total cost to provide the laptops and tablets is $4.5 billion.

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MAN IN THE MIRROR: Self-discovery and artistic zeal bring it home for Ashé’s Marlon Tomlinson

QUICK STUDY: “My ultimate goal, really, is to serve as a creative director for young artists,” Tomlinson says.

MARLON Tomlinson was searching. That’s how he explains the post-adolescent period of his life marked by a stark rebellious streak – wild red hair, manic life-of-the-party energy – that people came to associate with him. “I think I was using that period of craziness to define my role as an artist. But as you start to understand yourself you stop searching and you start honing,” he tells TALLAWAH. 

As he got deeper into his 20s, more knowledgeable about the world around him and more sure of what he wants out of life, he called off the search. He’s found his purpose, and what a personal transformation it has brought. “I’d say I grew up,” he admits in a masterpiece of understatement. “I’m now a proud loner.” Indeed, the laid-back, reflective and calm Marlon Tomlinson of today is a far cry from the wild child of a decade ago. 

You’ll get similar narratives from young artists across the Caribbean: they had some maturing to do in pursuit of their passion and purpose. On a deeper level though, what precipitated Tomlinson’s evolution was a deep desire to commence a fresh chapter in his life. He got it. 

At the Ashé Company, where he’s been working since 2010, Tomlinson wears many hats. “I’m an artistic executive. But I’m also a dancer, a choreographer, a singer and an actor. I want to master my craft to provide a range of services. My ultimate goal, really, is to serve as a creative director for young artists,” shares the Edna Manley College grad, who holds a BFA in Performance and Choreography. 

To wit, his Edna Manley College years were pivotal to his evolution. “It helped me get more grounded. I had to become a blank canvas all over again,” he remembers. “It was a big challenge for me. But by my third year I was getting A’s. It felt like for the first time I was finally able to express and be my true creative self.” 

Longtime colleague Ifidel Williams has witnessed Tomlinson’s growth up close. “When he just came to Ashé we used to laugh at him because he was really awkward,” Williams recalls. “He’s become the consummate professional; someone who is serious about an international career.” 

Tomlinson’s work at Ashé is two-fold: artistic pursuits and health-care/outreach. As a case manager in their outreach department, he helps young HIV+ persons get the help they need. “It is fulfilling. It’s like you’re a humanitarian,” he says. “My responsibility is to provide them with information and to assist them emotionally. It helps them get back to appreciating their self-worth again.” 

At the same time, he’s been building Brand Marlon Anthony. “Everything I do is deliberate and intentional. I’ve found my purpose, and I’m moving more and more in that direction. No distractions,” says the young artist, who took home a Prime Minister’s Youth Award in 2019 and has offered his dance/choreography skills to a range of local projects, including the Wolmer’s Dance Troupe annual season and music videos for such stars as Jada Kingdom and the African act Falana. His dream job? To join Rihanna’s creative team. “I want the opportunities to come,” he says. “It’s part of building my legacy.”

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ON THE SCENE: OHJA Herb House officially opened… CBA treats Mandeville frontline workers… Birthday floral tributes for Sangster and Williams… New EU Ambassador visits J’ca House

GUEST OF HONOUR: Oct. 29, St. Andrew: As is the custom when a new diplomat is posted to the island, new EU Ambassador to Jamaica, Marianne Van Steen, recently paid a courtesy call on PM Andrew Holness at Jamaica House, where she was warmly welcomed with a gift and later spoke with the PM about multilateral issues. (Photo: Jamaica House) 

110 IN THE SHADE: Oct. 26, Kingston. Government officials (including PM Holness and Mayor Delroy Williams), civil servants and members of the public gathered at National Heroes Park for a floral tribute to mark the 109th anniversary of the birth of the late former Prime Minister Donald Sangster. (Photo: Ministry of Culture) 

RESPECT DUE: Oct. 26, Kingston. Also at Heroes Park, Culture minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange led a floral tribute in commemoration of the 108th anniversary of the birth of beloved cultural icon Ranny ‘Mas Ran’ Williams. (Photo: Ministry of Culture) 

HIGH GRADE: Oct. 23, St. Andrew. The official opening of the OHJA Herb House on Lady Musgrave Road drew appearances from reggae star Richie Spice and members of his team (among others), who posed for photo-ops, while congratulating the proprietors on a successful venture. (Photo: Skkan Media) 

SPECIAL DELIVERY: Oct. 15, Manchester. A team representing the Chinese Benevolent Association (CBA) recently treated staffers at the Mandeville Hospital to hot lunches, showing appreciation for their tireless efforts in the face of COVID-19 restrictions. (Photo: Southern Regional Health Authority)

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HOT TOPIC: What’s next for Junior Flemmings?

ON THE BALL: The versatile playmaker, who has voiced support for the LGBTQ movement, is looking forward to moving on from the incident.

HE recently won the coveted Golden Boot Award for scoring the most goals (14) in the 2020 United Soccer League (USL) championship, but Junior Flemmings’ laudable achievement has become a footnote to the much bigger story: he’s been suspended from competing in the league for the remainder of his season contract, which expires on November 30. 

Following an investigation by league officials, the decision was made to suspend the Jamaican midfielder and Phoenix Rising star player over allegations that he referred to a San Diego Loyal opponent as a ‘b-boy’ during a Phoenix-San Diego encounter. 

The offended player, Collin Martin, who is said to be openly homosexual, filed a complaint. Flemmings has strongly denied that he uttered the Jamaican anti-gay slur. League rules strictly forbid the use of “foul and abusive language.” 

Flemmings and the Phoenix Rising camp have also been charged an undisclosed fine. “The results of the investigation from the USL [say that] they were unable to confirm that the slur was directed at anyone in particular, but they do believe that an inappropriate term or language was used on the field,” Phoenix General Manager, Bobby Dulle, said in a recent interview. 

But in taking the long view, Dulle believes the Collin Martin episode and its subsequent chain of events should provide an eye-opening experience for the 24-year-old Reggae Boy. “I do know that Junior wants to look forward. He wants to take this, just like we [do] as an organization, as a learning moment,” Dulle said. 

He added, “I do know that he has some things in mind that he’d like to do, but he wanted to wait, to understand what the investigation and the league ultimately decided. And he wants to look forward in steps, which include reaching out to Collin Martin and San Diego. [These are some] things that he expressed to me that he’d certainly like to do.”

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NEW MUSIC REVIEW: Fresh tracks from Wayne Marshall and co, Protoje, Chalice and Koffee

Koffee – “Pressure” 

Melodic and laden with timely social commentary, the Grammy winner’s latest finds her ruminating on weighty themes that continue to occupy her gaze: humanity, socio-economic woes and rising above great odds. A- 

**  

Protoje feat. Lila Iké – “In Bloom” 

Protoje’s collabos always yield fascinating results, and this sexy-spiky track with his reggae-soul label-mate Lila Iké is no exception, capturing the essence of what happens when a relationship is tinkering on the edge. B+ 

** 

Chalice feat. Wayne Armond – “It’s Alright” 

Any conversation about the great reggae bands of all time must include Chalice, an enduring group whose fusion of timeless word-sound-power and rootsy musicality continues to churn out big hits like this repeat-worthy gem that hits all the right notes. A- 

** 

Natural High feat. Wayne Marshall, Jesse Royal and Kabaka Pyramid – “Cane Fields” 

Wayne Marshall, we feel your pain. The ace singjay brings poignant vocals and take-no-mess swagger to this all-star team effort (Jesse and Kabaka are in fine form, as usual) that tackles hardships and oppression, struggle and survival, with thought-provoking results. B+

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THE E-BUZZ: Buju Banton pays it forward / Vintage reggae hits updated / Remaking Marley’s “One Love”

>> New compilation album updates classic reggae/dancehall hits 

Ole time sinting come back again! Veteran record producer Jeremy Harding is currently putting the finishing touches to Dancehall Anthems, a compilation of fresh recordings of classic dancehall and reggae tunes. On the album, the likes of Sean Paul, Wayne Marshall, Bugle, Blvk H3ro, Runkus, Royal Blu and Agent Sasco render their versions of popular vintage hits by Ken Boothe, Tenor Saw, Louie Culture, Papa San and several others. Among the notable contributions: Kabaka Pyramid’s take on Michigan & Smiley’s “Nice Up the Dance” and Beenie Man’s update of “Zungguzungguguzungzeng” by Yellowman. 

>> Why Buju Banton is giving his Festival Song winnings to charity 

Buju Banton has donated his cash winnings from this summer’s Jamaica Festival Song Competition to a charity of his choice: the Sunbeam Boys’ Home, based in Old Harbour, St. Catherine. “I am just doing [this] to show these youths that someone cares. I want them to be part of their future and make an impact,” he said in an Observer interview. “For me, helping [charities] goes across the board, not just the ones that sound good and are prestigious. I also work with the Mount Olivett Boys’ Home in Manchester, and this is just part of my efforts to give these youngsters some hope.” Banton’s winning entry “I Am a Jamaican” copped $3 million in cash and prizes shares among the entertainer, the songwriter and producer. 

>> UNICEF and Marley family team up for “One Love” remake 

Released this past summer, the new version of Bob Marley’s call-to-action classic “One Love” has been dubbed “a global anthem for 2020.” The track features members of the Marley family, established and iconic musicians, artistes from conflict zones and children living in vulnerable communities. All proceeds from sales of the recording will benefit Reimagine, UNICEF’s global campaign to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic from becoming “a lasting crisis for children.” The jewelry brand Pandora (a UNICEF global partner) will match every dollar donated by the public to “One Love,” up to the value of $1 million. Says UNICEF, “We are delighted that the Marley family and Pandora have lent their generous support, creativity and love [as we] reimagine a more equal, less discriminatory world for children, through global solidarity and cooperation.”

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