Usain Bolt returns from crash with World Record

MANCHESTER, England – Usain Bolt ran the world's fastest 150 meters to win a soggy street sprint on Sunday that marked his return to competition after a car crash left him requiring minor foot surgery.
The triple Olympic champion ran down Manchester's main thoroughfare in windy conditions, finishing in 14.35 seconds to break Donovan Bailey's 12-year-old world best of 14.99 in the rarely run 150. Pietro Mennea of Italy ran in a hand-timed 14.8 in 1983.

To read more, click here.

Chat 'Bout Cleveland (finally) on FACEBOOK!

Okay, we get it.

Chat 'Bout Cleveland likes to be up to the time (yes, we are a little late) BUT, we can take a hint...

So for all the CBC readers in Cleveland and beyond suggesting we get on Facebook, here is goes:

Chatbout Cleveland's Profile Create Your Badge


Now, be our friend, PLEASE???

Worried about Twitter,

Bashy

Detroit announces Dancehall Queen Competition, June 20, 2009

Reggae Gurlz Entertainment in association with Big Head Promotions present The Detroit Dancehall Queen Competition on Saturday, June 20th at the Kind Grand Lodge neat Downtown Detroit.

To read more, click here...

Hip Hop Showdown at 'Best of the Best' in Miami....

It's proven that hip-hop originated from rap, which was spawned from dub, which is the stepchild of reggae, whose current offspring is dancehall. It's also a fact that no other music event in North America showcases reggae and hip-hop like BEST OF THE BEST....



To read more, click here.



Got tickets?



Bashy

Mother's Day Playlist

What better way to honor mom with some great tunes? Chat ‘Bout Cleveland decided to dig deep to find a list of reggae/dancehall tunes dedicated to dear mom...

Here are a few from the list:

Mama, Alaine
Mama’s Blessing, Anthony Cruz
Mama Cry, Beenie Man
Mother’s Cry, Buju Banton
Mama’s Blessing, Anthony Cruz
Honour Your Father and Mother, Desmond Becker

My Mama, Einstein

Mama, Gyptian
This Is One for You Mama, Jah Cure
Mother’s Call, Judy Mowatt
Mamma Don’t Cry, Mavado
Mother, O Mother, Reggae Bubblers
Mamma I Love you, Sean Paul
Mama Still Hungry (Stinkin’ Rich), Serani
Thank U Momma, Sizzla

Mamma, Vybz Kartel
Mama, Wrath Riley

Think you know a few we may have missed? Link us! chat_bout_cleveland@hotmail.com

Happy Mother's Day!

Bashy

Going South? Collie Buddz in Columbus CANCELLED (dammit!)

Roots announces the cancellation of the May 16th Stage Show featuring Dancehall sensation Collie Buddz in Columbus, Ohio. The promoter, Roots, cites reasons 'beyond their control' for the cancellation. For information regarding ticket refund inquiries, contact Roots Records at: 614.294.7611 or by email: www.rootsrecords.com.

(deeeeep sigggghhhhh),

Bashy :(

Beres Hammond, Queen Ifrica, Mavado amoung winners at 28th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards

To read more and view list of 2008 winners, click here.

Packy Malley announces 18th Annual Midwest Reggae Festival at Nelson Ledges!

Beres Hammond! Freddie McGregor! Tarrus Riley and MORE! For information, click here!

Can't Wait,

Bashy

Vybz Kartel banned from Grenada

One of Dancehall's best lyricists Vybz Kartel has been banned from performing on Grenadian soil at a concert scheduled for Saturday (May 2, 2009).



To read more, click here.

May 24th - Miami - WOW!!!

All roads lead to Miami - Memorial Day Weekend!!!

Here is a partial list of performers - More to come...

Bounty Killa
Beenie Man
Capleton
Ce’Cile
Cocoa Tea
Elephant Man
Flippa Mafia
Kiprich
Jabba
Marcia Griffiths
Matterhorn
Mavado
Serani
Spice
Wayne Wonder

Can I go with you?

Bashy

CGP Flag Party Review and Pics posted on www.chatboutcleveland.com!

...The big party vibes CGP's 3rd Annual Flag Party creates a feeling of Caribana and Carnivale - another great event for 2009!

Missed it again? To check review and pics, click here!

Can’t wait until NEXT year!

Bashy

Top 100 Reggae Songs Selected by UWI

The University of West Indies, Mona Campus gathered to select the 100 reggae songs from 1957 to 2007.

The list was comprised by a panel of professional musicians, disc jockeys and soundsystems. Each made thier selection based on record sales, radio airplay and how the song influenced musical trends....

The UWI also hopes that all 100 songs will ultimately be compiled into a box set.

To read more and view the top 10 songs, click here!

Waiting to see the next 90 tunes,

Bashy

Cleveland Detroit LINKUP! Review and pics from Destiny's 40th Earthstrong on detroitreggae.com!

In case you missed Destiny's 40th Earthstrong Bash in Detroit, check out the review and pics posted on detroitreggae.com.

Special guest DJ - Cleveland's own Powerstone, was in the building as well as other Clevelanders came to represent at the dance, including Coco T.

To read the review, click here..

Want more? To see pics, click here....

The Gully God in April 2009 VIBE Magazine

Be sure to pick up the latest copy of VIBE Magazine (with rapper T.I. on the cover). Inside you will find the 6 page interview by Rob Kenner entitled, Mavado, The Real McKoy....

To read more, click here!

'A Caribbean Dance Fundraiser' Review and Pics posted on Chat 'Bout Cleveland!

Missed the event?

To see review and pics:http://chatboutcleveland.com/event_reviews_

With Cleveland's support Ten Thousand Villages raised donations for their mission. Stay tuned! Organizers promise more Zumba inspired events soon!

Enjoy,

Bashy

www.Chat 'Bout Cleveland.com - A time for change...

(okay, okay, I HAD to....)

Log on to www.chatboutcleveland.com and you may notice a new thing or two on our homepage...

Now, if I tell you - it won't be as fun. Will it???

Enjoy,

Bashy!

Singer Luciano charged with harboring a fugitive....

Reggae singer Luciano was charged with harboring a fugitive by detectives from the St Andrew Central Police Division.

"He spent the weekend in jail and was charged a short while ago," head of the division, Superintendent Terrence Bent told the Observer last evening.

Luciano, real name Jepther McLymont, was arrested on March 27th questioning with his attorney present. Shortly after the proceeding, the artist was arrested and charged shortly after the filing of a writ of habeus corpus by his attorney.

To read more, click here.

T OD A Y !!! ''A Caribbean Dance Fundraiser'! A great time for a great cause!

A Caribbean Dance Fundraiser

Sunday, March 29th

(that's today!)

Ten Thousand Villages Cleveland at Trinity Commons

2254 Euclid Avenue

3-5 pm

Sunday, March 29th, Ten Thousand Village Cleveland presents ‘A Caribbean Dance Fundraiser’. It’s a great event for music, food, prizes and FUN!!!

“The event we had earlier this year was so well received,” says, Christel Turner of Ten Thousand Villages Cleveland. “Due to popular demand, we are back again with another fun Sunday afternoon event.”

‘A Caribbean Dance Fundraiser’ will feature music by local band, Hottstuf, playing live Reggae, Soca, Calypos and Latin tunes. The fun will be lead by Cleveland’s leading Zumba instructors – guaranteed to make you MOVE! (What is Zumba?, Click here.)

“We want people to come out and get ready to MOVE! Dress comfy and even represent their country!” Says Turner, “This is a true dance experience without all the fuzz of going to a club.”

Ten Thousand Villages Cleveland (2254 Euclid Avenue, across from Cleveland State University) is the exceptional source for unique, handmade gifts, jewelry, home decor and personal accessories representing the diverse cultures of artisans in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. Ten Thousand Villages helps support people in some of the poorest parts of the world, including Haitian people in the Caribbean, by purchasing their handicrafts for a fair price and then selling these items in our stores here in North America.

“This event will also give people an opportunity to visit our store and see what we have to offer. It’s a great place to buy gifts, so if you don’t pick up something on Sunday, you can keep us in mind for the future.” Voted best place to buy gifts in the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Cleveland Scene and Cleveland Jewish News, Ten Thousand Villages Cleveland is the city’s best kept secret.

So, come on out and dance Cleveland! The Caribbean Dance Fundraiser is THIS Sunday, March 29, 2009 at Ten Thousand Village Cleveland at Trinity Commons, 2254 Euclid Avenue, across from Cleveland State University. Admission is $15 (partial proceeds go directly to support Ten Thousand Villages' non-profit mission and programming). Free parking at Trinity Church lot at 22nd and Prospect.

See you there for this POSITVE event!

Ready to move,


Bashy

Zumba - uses rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program. Zumba Fanatics achieve long term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exhilarating hour of caloric-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life!

Looking for a unique shopping experience while supporting a great cause?

The place is right in your own backyard……..

Ten Thousand Villages, located at 2254 Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland is the exceptional source for unique, handmade gifts, jewelry, home decor and personal accessories representing the diverse cultures of artisans in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

Want to learn more? Click here.

Review and pics from KC Platinum Earthstong bash posted on Chat 'Bout Cleveland.com

Hey!

One of the few who missed KC Platinum's birthnite bash last Saturday?

No worries, click here!

Enjoy!

Bashy

Chat 'Bout Cleveland + Columbus Caribbean LINK UP!

Chat 'Bout Cleveland has teamed up with Columbus Caribbean to let the Columbus masses in on 'all things Reggae' here in Cleveland.

To check out the first monthly installment, "Ten (Reggae) Reasons to Visit Cleveland", click here!

Big head, Bad girl promotions and chicagoreggae.com proudly present: 4th Annual Dancehall Queen Competition (Chicago)

Big Head promotions + chicagoreggae.com + Bad Girl Promotions present the 4th Annual Midwest Dancehall Queen Competition on Saturday, July 11, 2009 location TBA, Chicago, IL.

The winner of the 2009 contest will attend The 11th Annual International Dancehall Queen Competition in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

To read more, click here!

TONIGHT! Watch Mavado shine at BET 'Rip the Runway' '09 + Cleveland top Model Riya Foster!

Set the DVR's as Mavado performs 'So Special' as BET's RIP THE RUNWAY returns for its fifth season displayed the latest styles in fashion, the hottest entertainers and models on the runway. The night's event was hosted by "Notorious" star Derek Luke and one of the sexiest actors/model, Joy Bryant.



Big up Cleveland top model, Riya Foster who strut her stuff with the likes of Toccara Jones and Rabbitt (Real Chance at Love).


BET's RIP THE RUNWAY will premiere TONIGHT on BET at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT* and will re-air on Thursday, March 5 at 8:00 p.m. and Friday, March 6 at 10:00 p.m

"Classic Freakum" Review and Pics posted on www.chatboutcleveland.com!

Missed the dance last Saturday?

No worries!

Check out the review and pics from the event:

http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/event_reviews_.

Enjoy!

Bashy

TONIGHT! “Classic Freakum” - CLEVELAND – CINCINNATI – DETROIT – PITTSBURGH = LINKUP!

U/Can Entertainment alongside Fred G and Breakthrough Records presents “Classic Freakum” tonight! The first stage show for 2009 promises to be a night of pure MADNESS with LIVE performances by Vicious (formerly Lil’) performing tunes like ‘Nika’ and ‘Freaks’, Fudgie Springer (Pittsburgh and beyond) and Cleveland’s own, Blacka. The chat ‘bout is the Club Center will be filled with people from Detroit, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dayton and the ‘Burgh, so Cleveland, REPRESENT!

Adding to the madness, music by Pittsburgh sound, Vybz Machine, Firehouse Sound from Cincinnati alongside Cleveland Sounds New Horizon, Star Temple and Organik Sound (2008 Criss List Best Sound Winner). Special guests, Detroit’s own Nocturnal Dance Crew.

It’s all about live video by Step-N2- the Light and - did we mention FREE SHOES??? Yes, Cinderella, you read it here – Shoes Galore will give away 1 pair of shoes EVERY HOUR- AFTER midnight – what more can you ask for?

It’s all about ‘Classic Freakum’ TONIGHT at The Club Center!

See you there!



Bashy

To read more about Vicious, www.myspace.com/littlevicious
To read Chat ‘Bout Cleveland interview with Fudgie Springer, click here
To read more about Vybz Machine, click here
To read more about Nocturnal Dance Crew, click here

Mavado: "So Special'....

Think pink (and white) Cleveland - TONIGHT!!!

Is all about XXX Car Wash and Shoes Galore as they present Cleveland’s first theme dance of 2009 – The 4th Annual ‘Pink and White Affair’ tonight at Dailey’s Blue Mountain Inn (3019 East 116th Street). Music by New Horizon, Star Temple and Organik Sound (voted Best Sound for 2008 Criss List).

The Cleveland masses truly look forward to this dance as the fellas pull out the pink blazers and ties and all the bashment girls wear anything from white bustiers and vests to dresses and trench coats.

The Chat ‘Bout this event has been growing strong for the last few weeks, so this is sure to be 2009’s first can’t miss event!!

Feeling pink,


Bashy

BOOK ON JAMAICA’S CUISINE TO BE FEATURED AT JAMAICAN CONSULATE

The Consulate General of Jamaica, New York will showcase another book in the “Arts & Literary Salon” series highlighting works by Jamaican authors & visual artists. In a major collaborative effort with the Harlem Book Fair, the “Salon” will feature its first cookbook.

To continue reading, click here:http://www.chatboutcleveland.com

Happy Birthday, Bob Marley!

From Jamaica to the US, Germany, Japan and everywhere in between, today, February 6th or sometime this week- the world will pause to celebrate the birthday of reggae legend, Robert Nesta Marley. Many will pay tribute to the man and his music that is still rocking the world…

To check out the timeline of the legend, click here: http://chatboutcleveland.com/home

Enjoy!

Bashy

Event Review and Pics: 1st Annual Reggae Awards Bash

Missed the 1st Annual Awards Bash? Shame on you! No worries! Check out the pics and review.

1. Go to: http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/
2. Click 'event reviews'
3. Enjoy!

Bashy

Cleveland's 'Best of the Best' The Results are in!

Congratulations!!!

2008 Criss List Winners

Best Stage Show:
Beenie Man @ Club Center, Sample Jack

Best Family Friendly Event:
Sunday Soccer at the Park

Best Radio Personality:
Rich Lowe, Night of the Living Dread, WRUW, 91.1

Best Promoter:
Packy Malley

Best Local Band:
Umojah Nation

Best Local Artist:
Sunshade

Best Male Crew:
New Horizon

Best Annual Event:
Midwest Reggae Festival, Promoter: Packy Malley

Best Theme Dance:
Strawberry Fantasies/Linerie Dreams, CGP

Best Female Crew:
Bashment/Barbie Doll Crew

Best Sound:
Organik Sound

Best Selector:
DJ Chubby

Best Bash of the Year:
Reggae Boyz Birthnite Bash @ Dailey’s

THANK YOU CLEVELAND!!

...for supporting the 1st Annual Awards Bash!

Much, Much Love,

Bashy Bloggette and See-shellz

TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT!!!! It all comes down to this....

Chat 'Bout Cleveland alongside Packy Malley

presents:

You voted Cleveland!

Now come and see who is named the

'Best of the Best in 2008'!

...Are you Red Carpet Ready?

..Speaking of Awards -

RETV STAGES THE FIRST MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS IN THE REGION

Reggae Entertainment Television is pleased to announce the first staging of the RETV MVP (My Video Pic) Awards. This will be the first Music Video Awards of it’s kind to be staged in Jamaica and the Caribbean. The RETV MVP Awards was developed as a spin off from one of RETV’s Flagship Programmes, MVP (My Video Pic) which has reinvented a timeless favourite, viewer’s choice ranking. Today’s audience wants to control their programming and what better way to do that than through an audience selected, top 10 video countdown TV programme in viewers have an opportunity to “text” using their mobile phones the videos which they want to see in the MVP Countdown.

To read more, go to: www.chatboutcleveland.com/news

Mavado + BET '106 and Park': 'So Special' World Broadcast Premier THIS Monday

Mavado, one of dancehall’s leading artists, is set to release The World Premier video of his latest tune, ‘So Special’, Monday, January 26th on the BET flagship show, ‘106 & Park’.

The video, directed by Rass Kassa, has generted an early buss as show hosts started to promote the upcoming world premiere of "So Special" with early 'shout outs' on the daily program to create a huge anticipation for Monday’s show.

“It’s a great look for the Artist,” says Mavado manager Julian Jones-Griffith. “Usually when a Dancehall song shows crossover potential, there is no campaign behind it to push it to that next level. This video will certainly help Mavado connect with new fans and markets.”

"So Special" continues to rise on the Billboard Hot 100 Hip Hop and R & B charts, along with “No Games” by Serani. Mavado’s sophomore album “Mr. Brooks - A Better Tomorrow” is expected in stores on March 3, 2009.

2008 Criss List - Thank You Cleveland!

The polls for the 2008 Criss List are officially closed!

Chat ‘Bout Cleveland

would like to thank everyone who helped select the

'Best of the Best’ for 2008.

SO, come on Cleveland! You voted! NOW come out and see who won..

The 1st Annual Reggae Awards Bash

Saturday, January 31st

2008 Criss List Winners announced LIVE!!!!

For more information about this event, log on to: www.chatboutcleveland.com

See you there!

2008 Criss List - Last week to vote!!!

Due to popular demand....

Criss List 2008 Voting EXTENDED to Monday, January 19th at MIDNIGHT!

So, you STILL have time to vote!
To vote: Log on to: http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/click Criss List tab Vote!


Join the over 400+ who have already sounded off to vote Cleveland's Best of the Best!

Winners announced LIVE, January 31st at the 1st Annual Reggae Awards Bash @ The Beachland Ballroom! For more information regarding this event, log on: http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/ or http://www.beachlandballroom.com/!


Keep Supporting Cleveland!

Bashy

BREAKING NEWS: Blacka's Birthnite Bash NEW LOCATION!!!!!!!

Blacka's Capricorn Bash has been MOVED to Dailey's Blue Mountain Inn (3019 East 116th). The artist, Glama Wayne IS here!!!!


Getting comfy and cute,


Bashy

Chat ‘Bout Cleveland/Cleveland Reggae Link up!

The Criss List buzz is catching on! Packy Malley, a true Cleveland reggae icon has teamed up with Chat ‘Bout Cleveland by placing the link to voting on clevelandreggae.com.

Take your pick – clevelandreggae.com or chatboutcleveland.com, whatever you do, we want to hear from you! Due to popular demand, voting has been extended to MONDAY, JANUARY 19TH AT MIDNIGHT!

So, log on and vote! (Sorry, can't click the pic!)


In demand,


Bashy

It's Coming! The Criss List Reggae Awards and Bash - Saturday, January 31st!

Chat ‘Bout Cleveland alongside Packy Malley

present:

“The Criss List Reggae Awards and Bash”

Saturday, January 31st

Beachland Ballroom
15711 Waterloo Road
Cleveland, Ohio

10pm

Come out and see who Cleveland voted

The Best of the Best in 2008!

Awards presented for:

Best Stage Show
Best Promoter
Best Local Artist
Best Local Band
Best on Air Personality
Best Sound
Best Selector
Best Crew (female and male)
Best Family Friendly Event
Best Annual Event
Best Theme Dance
Best Bash of the Year

With performances by:

Best on Air Personality
Best Selector
Best Sound
..And more!

Happy New Year!

The Year in Review: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly....

to read more, click here: www.chatboutcleveland.com

Enjoy!

Bashy

Here it is Cleveland! 2008 'Criss List' VOTE NOW!!!!!

Can we hear YOU now?

The word is out!

Chat ‘Bout Cleveland

presents

The 2008 'Criss List'.

This poll, consisting of 14 categories,

will give Cleveland reggae fans the opportunity to select their favs of 2008.

Categories include:
Best Stage show
Best Local Artist
Best Local Band
Best Selector
Best Promoter
Best Sound
Best Crew
Best Radio Personality
Best Theme Dance
Best Annual Event
Best Family Friendly Event
Best Bash of the Year!

To vote now:

click the link below:

http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/2008_criss_list__

Voting closes on Monday, January 5th at midnight. Results will be announced Friday, January 9th via chatboutcleveland.com, chatboutcleveland.blgospot.com and myspace.com/chatboutcleveland.

Start voting!

Bashy

NEWS: "Gully Creeper" inventer, Ice, dies in shooting

The dancehall community and Jamaica in general is very sad today. Dancer, Ice accredited with inventing the best dance to come out of Jamaica for 2008 was gunned down early Friday morning (December 26th).

Thirty-six year-old dancer, David Alexander Smith otherwise called “Ice”, of Kingston, creator of the famous dance hall move “Gully Creeper”, was shot and killed by gunmen at a bar at Newark Avenue, Kingston 11 this morning.

Early reports say the dancer was shot while he sat in his vehicle on Keesing Avenue in Kingston. Additional information received by the CCN states that at about 7:55 a.m., Smith was at the establishment when men armed with guns entered. The armed hoodlums immediately opened fire on the dancer where he died immediately on the scene.
During the investigation, Half Way Tree Police, also reported that Smith’s Champagne Mitsubishi Lancer which was taken by his attackers.

Ice’s latest dance craze, “Gully Creeper” was made popular this summer by Usain Bolt in celebration for winning the gold medals in Beijing.

Happy Boxing Day!

In the spirit many of us who use this day to return those undesired gift, many in United Kingdom, and other countries in the Commonwealth of Nations celebrate Boxing Day. Contemporary Boxing Day in many countries is now a "shopping holiday" associated with after-Christmas sales.

Historically, the day is named for St. Stephen's Day. Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr, being stoned to death in Jerusalem around A.D. 34-35 - 26 December, which is a public holiday in most countries in Europe and many countries around the world with predominantly Christian populations. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, St Stephen's Day is celebrated on the 27th of December, although in Greece the Greek Boxing Day is also celebrated as a public holiday on the 26th of December and is not related to the English version.

It is usually celebrated on the 26th of December, the day after Christmas Day however, unlike St. Stephen's Day, Boxing Day is not always on the 26th of December, its associated public holiday can be moved to the next weekday if the 26th of December is a Saturday or Sunday. The movement of Boxing Day varies between countries.

....So head out to those malls and big box stores for your Boxing Day celebration!

Been 'celebrating' Boxing Day for years,

Bashy!

PRE-STING SHOW FREE LIVE STREAM TODAY!!!

On Friday, December 19, 2008 YourRadio105 will be streaming (through USTREAM) a Pre-Sting Show Live From New Kingston, Jamaica. Show starts approx. 1pm - 10pm.

This is a talent show for upcoming artists, plus some quick special appearances by some VERY well-known artists who will be performing @ STING 2009....

You can also tune in to the Live Stream throughout the days leading up to STING 2009, to catch interviews with artists like Vybz Kartel, Mavado, Bounty Killer, and more.

So - make sure you tune @ 1pm (est). It's FREE!!

Tuning In...

Bashy

The Chat 'Bout: Reggae Boyz & Ms. Trini Reign Supreme!

Be sure to log on to :www.chatboutcleveland.com for these news stories:


Jamaica win 2008 Digicel Caribbean Championships

The Reggae Boyz reign over regional football opened a new chapter on Sunday night in Kingston, as the new Digicel Caribbean Champions penalized a gallant Grenada, who gave it their all...

For full story: http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/

Miss Trinidad places third in Miss World
Trinidadian Gabrielle Walcott was placed third in the Miss World pageant held over the weekend in Johannesburg, South Africa. The winner was Miss Russia, Ksenia Sukhinova, and in second spot was Miss India, Parvathy Omanakulan.

For full story: http://www.chatboutcleveland.com/news.



Enjoy!

Bashy

Matisyahu LIVE at The House of Blues TONIGHT!!

Once again Cleveland, another great stageshow comes this way as Cleveland.com presents reggae artist, Matisyahu LIVE at The House of Blues THIS Sunday, December 14th. The show also features acts K'Naan and Trevor Hall.

Matthew Miller, a self-described “white suburban teenager,” grew up in White Plains, New York, to Jewish parents. He describes his teenage years as being filled with drugs while listening to hip-hop and reggae music.

Now, Matisyahu Miller, an observant Chassidic Jew and top-selling artist on the Sony-BMG label. The name, Matisyahu is an Ashkenazi Hebrew and Yiddish pronunciation of the Biblical name Matthew. The Modern Hebrew pronunciation is Mātityāhu. The name means gift of God.

Since 2004, he has released two studio albums, ‘Shake off the Dust…arise’ (2004) and ‘Youth’ (2006) with an upcoming 3rd album release scheduled for 2009. These albums include conscious tunes such as ‘King without a Crown’ and ‘Youth’.

Through his short career, Matisyahu has teamed up with some of the biggest names in reggae production including Bill Laswell and duo Sly & Robbie.

Since his debut, Matisyahu has received positive reviews from both rock and reggae outlets. Most recently, he was named Top Reggae Artist of 2006 by Billboard Magazine as well as being named a spokesperson for Kenneth Cole

"All of my songs are influenced and inspired by the teachings that inspire me. I want my music to have meaning, to be able to touch people and make them think”, says Miller, “Chasidism teaches that music is 'the quill of the soul.' Music taps into a very deep place and speaks to us in a way that regular words can't.” (Source: wikipedia)

Doors open for the show at 7pm with Showtime at 8pm. Tickets prices are $23.50 & $32. For More information and tickets, call 216.523.BLUE or log on to: www.HOB.com/Cleveland.

To learn more about this artist, log on to: http://www.matisyahuworld.com/

See you at the show!
Bashy

Burning Spear, Elephant Man, Sly & Robbie among 2008 nominations for Best Reggae Album (uhhhhh).

The results are in. The 2008 nominations for Best Reggae Album are: ‘Jah is Real’ by Burning Spear, ‘Let’s get Physical’ by Elephant Man, ‘Vibes’ by Heavy D, ‘Repentance’ by Lee “Scratch” Perry, ‘Intoxication’ by Shaggy and ‘Amazing’ by Sly & Robbie.

Ummmm, Okay.

Is it me or does anyone else think people at The Grammys are OUT OF TOUCH? So, you are appeasing that segment of music by giving a Reggae music category (#73 out of 110, no less) and THEN clump them all together?

How can you put dancehall (Elephant Man) and Roots and Culture (Burning Spear) and then Shaggy and Heavy D (Damn!) somewhere in between? I am confused. That’s like trying to put hmmm, let’s say Lil’ Wayne in the same category with Al Green – hey, it’s all music!

The ‘category’ was just created in about 1985, in which it was called ‘Best Reggae Recording’ from 1985 to 1991. As I take a look at the nominees from the past 30 + years, they have all been a WTF type of thing.

I have listed the winners and nominees from 2000…..

2007 - Ziggy Marley, ‘Love Is My Religion’
Nominees: Buju Banton ‘Too Bad’, Matisyahu ‘Youth’, Sly & Robbie
‘Rhythm Doubles’, UB40 ‘Who You Fighting For?’

2006 - Damian Marley ‘Welcome to Jamrock’
Nominees: Burning Spear ‘Our Music’, Sean Paul ‘The Trinity’, Shaggy ‘Clothes Drop’, Third World ‘Black Gold & Green’

2005 - Toots & the Maytals ‘True Love’
Nominees: Jimmy Cliff ‘Black Magic’, Sly & Robbie ‘The Dub Revolutionaries’, Steel Pulse ‘African Holocaust’

2004 - Sean Paul ‘Dutty Rock’
Nominees: Buju Banton ‘Friends for Life’, Burning Spear ‘Free Man’, Third World ‘Ain't Givin' Up’, Wayne Wonder ‘No Holding Back’

2003 - Roger Lomas (engineer/mixer & producer) & Lee "Scratch" Perry (producer & artist) ‘Jamaican E.T.’,
Nominees: Alpha Blondy ‘Merci’, Bounty Killer ‘Ghetto Dictionary: The Mystery’, Capleton ‘Still Blazin’, Freddie McGregor ‘Anything for You’

2002 - Arlick Thompson (engineer), Stephen Marley (producer) & Damian Marley ‘Halfway Tree’
Nominees: Beres Hammond ‘Music Is Life’, Ky-Mani Marley ‘Many More Roads’, Luciano ‘A New Day’

2001 - Beenie Man ‘Art and Life’
Nominees: Dennis Brown ‘Let Me Be the One’, Gregory Isaacs ‘Private & Confidential’, Pato Banton ‘Life Is A Miracle’

2000- Burning Spear ‘Calling Rastafari’
Nominees: ‘Aswad’ Roots Revival, Beenie Man ‘The Doctor’, Steel Pulse‘Living Legacy’

…see what I mean? I am sure this is not a new issue with Reggae music and The Grammys, and I sure it will not be the last. But with so many different types of reggae music (lover rock, roots, dancehall, gospel) is it even worth a category?

But, I guess, at the end of the day – does it matter? People like what music they like NO MATTER what any awards show says. Trust me it was not any awards that make us fall in love with the melodies of Beres Hammond or the bass of a new Serani tune... so, does it matter?

Wow!

Bashy

Usain Bolt named 2008 'World Athlete of the Year' by IAAF

Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt can add another honor to his title: World Athlete.

For more, log on to: www.chatboutcleveland.com/news.

Bashy

Keyboard player for Fanton Mojah killed in car crash

Howard 'Pele' Manning, Keyboard Player for Fantan Mojah's Macka Tree Band died in a car accident in Portmore St. Catherine on Monday (December 1st).

The statement was released via the singer’s MySpace Blog and further states:
Condolences goes out to his family from from Fantan Mojah and the Macka Tree family "Our prayers are with you during this time of bereavement".

No other details have been released.

To leave condolences for Howard ‘Pele’ Manning, log on to: www.myspace.com/mojahfanton

10 things Chat ‘Bout Cleveland are grateful for….

1. Begins with a O and ends with an A…. Our 44th President, Barack Hussein Obama, or as I like to call him, Barry!
2. Finally – www.chatboutcleveland.com - our baby is growing more and more everyday….
3. My Space – who knew? Next stop - Facebook….
4. Gas FINALLY going down (now I can resume my road trips).
5. The Club Center – Cleveland’s new dancehall (now if only we can get Big Family back...)
6. Sunday Soccer at Woodhill Park – all about family!
7. CGP – The Flag Party, The Boat Ride (see, I remembered!), Leisa Engel’s Ling Ling bash, and the ‘Black Out Party’ landing RIGHT on Halloween this year, need I say more?
8. The great stage shows this year – Movado, Luciano, Baby Cham and Beenie and (of course Beres) made me realize the Cleveland still has ‘it’…..

9. The friends and supporters Chat ‘Bout Cleveland has come to know and love this past year, Big Up – Vybz Machine, Fudgie Springer, Punkie, Super Dee, Detroit Reggae, Roots Rock Sound, Reggae Source Magazine, Columbus Caribbean, Higher Vibes with Jomo Benn, DJ Tommy Fox, Rich Lowe, Chicago Reggae, Hot gal Lavonia, Ms. Shavon, DJ Lava Ranks and his better half DJ Jellie, Mitch from Razdabar, Trini, Selebrity, Destinee – you can never have enough (dancehall) friends!

10. All the love and support from family…

Of course, the list could go on…

So, what are you thankful for?
Bashy

Popular Bronx DJ and dancer, Skerrit Bwoy, recovers from near fatal car crash...

Popular Bronx DJ and dancer, Dale Richardson, AKA Skerrit Bwoy and crew were struck by an 18-wheeler truck while en route to a Washington D.C. performance. The car occupying the DJ and crew members was totaled on impact. ...

To read more on this story, go to: www.chatboutcleveland.com/news.

Bashy

Gives thanks. TOK on Columbus Thanksgiving Night!

Yes, it’s yet another hot stageshow coming in 2009 as Roots Records (Columbus) presents T.O.K. in concert! It all goes down Thanksgiving night, NEXT Thursday, November 27th. The reggae style crooners haven’t made it to Ohio in more than a few years (since The Odean, I remember), but these fellas present a show full of high energy leaving many audiences impressed…

The four singers began T.O.K. -- the acronym originally stood for Touch of Klass consists of Alistaire McCalla, Roshaun Clarke, and Craig Thompson who all met in the school choir at Kingston's Campion College, while friend Xavier Davidson attended Calabar High School.

T.O.K. began by performing R&B covers, but that inevitably changed. As Davidson explained, "We're Jamaican. That has to come out in the music, and that's what happened, gradually."

By 1993, the harmonious quartet placed second in the annual Tastee Talent Contest. Though they didn't win, their appearance helped bring them to Nuff Records, where they recorded a few tracks for the label, although nothing hit the charts. By 1996, they were on Sly & Robbie's Taxi label, where the single "Hit Them High" appeared, again making no real impact. From there it was on to Main Street, where they encountered engineer Richard Browne, who was about to start his own label. T.O.K. opted to go with the engineer, who was just a couple of years older than them.

Their first successful effort for his new High Profile label went nowhere, but the follow-up, "Hardcore Lover," which teamed them with dancehall queen Lady Saw, rose to number four.

After this success, T.O.K. followed up by releasing a series of singles like "Whoa" and "Ill Nana" that kept crashing into the charts. Wanting to return to
dancehall which had become a much bigger influence and their sound, the 1998 release of "Eagles Cry" (a nod to Prince's "When Doves Cry") gave the band their first number one.

Other hot tunes by the crew include; the heavily political and most frequenylt heard, ‘Chi Chi Man’, (2000)’, ‘My Crew, My Dawgs’ (2001) - , T.O.K. released on their own X.C.A.R.R. label and the recent single, ‘Footprints’ and ‘She’s Hot’ from the latest ‘Unknown Language’ released in 2005.

Once again, it’s all about a road trip Cleveland! For more information about this concert, log on to: www.rootsrecords.com!

Hoping they sing ‘Money 2 Burn’,

Bashy

Ten to One Promotions present: Shashamane International!

Cleveland promoters bring yet another great event to the Cleveland masses as Ten to One Promotions present from Shashamane International LIVE to the Club Center THIS Saturday, November 15th.

Shashamane International emerged in 1984 as Papa Bingi formed 'DREAD BROTHERS PROMOTIONS and SHASHAMANE INTERNATIONAL'. Shashamine International consists of Rev Dida, the late Pupa Davis, Oga Sura Mbaya, Daddy Chosh,Youthman Terry, and Ras Ken.

“We started playing out the Sound around Nairobi Kenya in Clubs like, ‘The Starlight’, ‘Halliance’, ‘Hollywood’ and around the country promoting Reggae music”. Say founding member, Papa Bingi.

By 1985, Papa Bingi set off for Europe leaving behind the rest of the crew. Shashamane has played in countries like Germany, Holland, England, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France and Swizerland. In 1990, Papa Bingi decided to move to New York City where he build another set. The New York crew includes; Six Killer, James Bond and Little Fox.

Currently, Shasashamane has three major bases: New York Headquarters (with Owner Papa Bingi), Denmark (with Ras Akally and Princess T)and Nairobi.

“Shashamane is a clash and juggling sound”, says Papa Bingi, “have clashed and played with Sounds like Killamanjaro, Stormforce, Love Star, King Addies, King Barka, Stereo Five, Black magic, Black Terror, Blunt Posse and many more.”

Yes, Cleveland, come and check this legendary sound THIS Saturday at the Club Center, 8800 Woodland Avenue with music by all Cleveland Sounds. Live Video and food will be in the place. See you there!

CGP's 'Black Out Affair' review and pics posted on www.chatboutcleveland.com!

What?

Don't tell me you missed ANOTHER CGP event... No worries, check out the pics and review posted on www.chatboutcleveland.com/event_reviews_.

Feel better now?

Bashy

Ohio votes for change! I love THAT ONE!

Once again, Ohio – making history!

Yes, Ohio and all it’s glory was yet AGAIN at the center of this historic election. As predicted, the favor of our great state determined the 2008 presidential race.

Thanks Ohio and beyond to help elect Barack Hussein Obama as this nation’s 44th President! May his journey be productive and prosperous for us all.

Finally able to turn away from CNN (almost)-

Bashy

Election Night - Bring in this historic event at Caribbean Flavor!

JUST ANNOUNCED!

Election Day

Tuesday, November 4th

Caribbean Flavor

321 Babbitt Road

Euclid, Ohio

Bring in this HISTORIC election with Caribbean Flavor
(we'll either be all laughing or all crying - together!)