2013 Northwest World Reggae Festival
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On Saturday, we ars blessed to have the 10 time Grammy nominated -- Third World. More than just one of the top Reggae bands of all time, it is an institution. An institution that stands for producing and performing music that, while holding firm to the cultural and ancestral roots of it's members, still pushes forward the cutting edge of music worldwide. It is an institution whose themes are positive, progressive and internationally relevant. Formed in 1973, Third World is committed to the excellence of reggae music by combining Jamaican Reggae and Folk music with all strains of African Rhythms, American Pop, Rhythm & Blues, Rap and Classical music. After over three decades, Third World is one of the longest running and most diverse bands Jamaica has ever produced.
For some time, Prezident Brown has been reggae’s best kept secret. Born in the hills of Clarendon, Jamaica he was first called Junior Ranking by his mother because he would grab the microphone and chant at schoolyards dances. Later as he grew to over 6’4’, he was given the moniker of Slim Brown by his first mentor, U Brown. Famed producer and sound system operator Jack Ruby saw something special in young Slim Brown. He took him under his wing, re-named him Prezident Brown and appointed him resident M.C. of his Hi-Power Sound System, traveling worldwide. Since 1989, touring with his band and 10 albums later, Prezident Brown has left a wave of conscious music throughout the world.
Living in Florida singer Shauna McKenzie, where she was studying to become a nurse, left her college to join the female pop-R&B trio - Gift. While shooting a music video with the group she defied the overtly sexual stereotypes forced upon female artists and walked off the set, protesting the requisite attire of lingerie and stilettos and invasive camera angles.
Returning to her birthplace, Jamaica, with the intention of opening an internet cafe, she had a fateful meeting with 5th Element Records, Richie Spice’s management at the time, resulting in her selection as one of Spice’s backup singers and eventually her own recordings deal. She chose the name Etana, which means ‘the strong one’ in Swahili; her strength was manifested, this time around, by pursuing a musical career strictly on her own terms. With the release Etana’s third set “A Better Tomorrow”; recorded at Kingston’s legendary Tuff Gong Studios, this by far is her most confident and cohesive work to date, fully recognizing the power of her music and its widespread influence, especially upon the youth. With her new child (born last November), her own powerful band and 228,000 facebook fans the festival so blessed the have “THE STRONG ONE” in the house!!
No female artist has managed to fuse ethno-soul, jazz with ethno-ragga in one song as singer, songwriter Nkulee Dube has in such a short space of time since entering this challenging industry. Born in South Africa to the family of music legend Lucky Dube, Nkulee Dube has big shoes to fill and she is filling those shoes extraordinarily well. She glides and slides with ease in between her songs as she traverses between ragga and ethno-soul as if she was born on stage. Her new show will take Nkulee and her 7 piece all South African band across the globe in 2013 -- NWWRF will be welcoming them in true Northwest style.
Keron "Kabaka Pyramid" Salmon is a multi-talented artist and producer coming straight from the streets of Kingston, Jamaica with a unique musical style blending the lyricism of Hip hop, with the energy and melody of Reggae and Dancehall. He is based out of the Bebble Rock music camp and through his liquid and hypnotizing delivery spreads the positive messages of spirituality and conscious evolution that forces you to listen. The name "Kabaka" is Ugandan for "King" and Pyramids are thought by the artist to house the mathematical proportions of Universal Laws that are eminent in the creation of this universe.
“With a solid list of skills not only in the booth but on the mixing board, and an array of lyrics that preach a message of love, self-awareness and African pride, Kabaka Pyramid is well on his way to a career that should not only lead to greatness but also lead a lot of fans to righteousness” Aesthetics Now Mag.
Raging Fyah is one of the most talented and dynamic groups to hit the Jamaican music scene in recent years. Divinely united, six stunning musicians- Anthony Watson, Courtland White, Demar Gayle, Delroy Hamilton, Kumar Bent and Mahlon Moving – set out to rekindle a flame of positivity in the music industry.
Though their versatility enables them to play all genres of music, most of their songs - influenced by passion, purpose and life experiences- assume a roots rock reggae flavour. They write their own songs and ensure that every word touches the soul of the listener, uplifting and motivating people from all socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
The Band is committed to changing the world, note by note, melody by melody- spreading light in areas of darkness, growing when conditions seem most bleak, demolishing obstacles without remorse; the band just keeps blazing...
like a raging fyah!
Jahdan hails from Guyana but moved to Brooklyn when he was young, soaking up all the music that city had on offer. Hip-hop heads might know him from his lyrical collaborations with DJ Premier, Afu Ra or Dead Prez. Reggae and Roots fans might know him from his band, Noble Society or his recent collaboration with Diplo and Switch on their Major Lazer project.
He has teamed up with producers Matt Shadetek and DJ Rupture to produce his debut solo album, Buzzrock Warrior. Jahdan’s intensity on the mic brings this palette of sounds together cohesively with thought- provoking lyrics and a pop sensibility that commands your attention.
“In live performances, Jahdan’s generosity is amazing. He gives and people feel it. In the studio, Jahdan Blakkamoore is such a monster because his sense of harmony and melody is deep. He could write these incredible choruses all day long. But most of all, at a daily level, Jahdan Blakkamoore is a humble dude with open ears. “ Jace Clayton aka DJ /rupture.
Born Greg Rose, in the cool hills of Bamboo, parish of St. Ann. His father owned several jukeboxes, giving him full exposure to the rhythms of Jamaica. After leaving York Castle High School, he moved to Kingston for a music career,
hanging out at studios such as King Jammys and Arrows.
A Rastafarian, Perfect’s lyrics are deep and straightforward yet unforgettably melodious, leaving you to listen over and over. Simply put, he keeps his lyrics real and unapologetically uses music as his medium for education and self-awareness.
PERFECT Giddimani is about more than music these days. His owns Perfect Papers, material for handmade cigarettes and he has also got involved in the Southern California skateboard community as producer of Perfect Giddimani skateboards.
"There are a lot of skateboarders who love reggae music and support us as artistes, so why not combine the two?"
Musically, he is working on his latest album, which is being produced by Sam Gilly -- drummer and bandleader for the Austrian band, House of Riddim.
w/ Irae Divine - Razteria - Queen Makedah - Sol Atash
EMPRESS MEDITATIONS Tours showcase features strictly conscious reggae and world beat female artists from around the globe. Hailing from Jerusalem, Philadelphia and Berkley they will perform together and as solo artist during this magical set. 2013 tour theme is Women for Peace, and features dynamic performances by
Irae Divine, Razteria, Queen Makedah, Sol Atash and back by the Fyah Squad Band!
featuring PAAPA WASTIK, BLACK I, JAH-THUNDA WISDOM & RUFFA ONE
Paapa Wastik is a conscious African roots-life reggae artist whose musical talent blossomed at age of five in his hometown of Cape Coast, Ghana where music was a predominant part of his culture. By 2002 Paapa Wastik was featured on "Top Radio Street Carnival," the largest festival in Ghana, which left the crowd with a lasting impression, as a result of his energetic stage performance. Within that year Paapa continued the efforts toward releasing his first album "Mama Africa" to rave reviews. 2003 saw him making progressive steps in his talent and music mission by crossing over to the United States where he established an independent record label, Asaase Music Foundation. By September 2012 Paapa Wastik launched his latest album UNITY FOR AFRICA in New York, and is currently on tour in the North America to promote the album. NWWRF will feature an not only Paapa Wastik but a talented showcase of African talent -- Roots at it Root!
with The Escort Service Band
Soulmedic brings forward potent reggae and dancehall music. Soulmedic delivers vocal versatility with songs of inspiration rooted firm in truth and rights; Medic is known for entertaining and energetic stage shows, uplifting the massive with the message of love and unity.
Born to a German immigrant mother and California native father- Soulmedic was raised in Southeast Asia, California and Florida and now resides in Hawaii and Northern California. Exposure to different cultures and musical styles influenced Medic greatly in his childhood; from traditional Malaysian, Philipino and Chinese folk music to Reggae, Hip Hop, and R&B. As part of The Lion Camp Crew, he has been burning up the stages throughout the world. Being the change you want to see in the world and strength of unity are some of Medic's most echoed messages. As a father of 3 children, Soulmedic remains progressive and on the grind with "world wide musical healing as the goal".
The Escort Service is the Northwest’s premier backing ensemble. Led by its indomitable drummer, Scottie “One Drop” Valpey, who assembles the best musicians for each different artist and situation, the band varies as to who is most suited and available since all of the musicians have established careers in music. The end product is a great mix and a different sound each time.
You may hear them back an artist from Jamaica one week, then a local Hip-Hop artist the next, but you'll always see the worlds finest reggae musicians.
Christopher Muchabaiwa, bassist for Dr. Thomas Mapfumo’s Blacks Unlimited Band, has formed De Solution with a group of other world touring musicians now based in Eugene, Oregon. Mbiras and guitars blended together with drums and bass to send your body moving to this world of music. The bits within the music makes you jump up and wanna dance. Singing in Shona and English be prepared enjoy this unique blend of musical talents.
This septet of heavy hitting Northwest Musicians writes original reggae music for the 21st century. Current lyrics, foundation Caribbean rhythms, and dynamic live performances mark this new force in world music, uniting audiences on the dance floor throughout the west coast.
SYNRGY is high energy, positive reggae crew that has gained a reputation for their heavy touring lifestyle and their incredible live performance.
Planted in Flagstaff AZ, grown in Humboldt County, blossomed in Southern Oregon and smokin’ all over the world, SYNRGY is a reggae massive movement spreading Positive Motivational Music that blossoms the soul. Join in with SYNRGY!
Sol Seed brings a distinct sound combining the best elements of Reggae, Rock, Hip Hop and Psychedelic Jam to form a positive musical fusion that is uniquely their own. With conscious, thought-provoking lyrics, infectious reggae-laden grooves and high-energy, impressive live performances, Sol Seed creates an unforgettable live-music experience for people of all ages to enjoy. Thru their live show the group shares their message of perspectivism and unconditional love through uplifting music rooted in the soul. Sol Seed has certainly dug their roots.
THURSDAY NIGHT
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Soljah Sound is a homegrown Oregon sound system inspired by the works of Rastafari and reggae/dancehall music representing Rasta culture and conscious livity and the One Love vibration for the Portland, Oregon, NW, US, Earth massive! From Portland to the world Soljah Sound breaks the barriers of style and genre while still keeping true to the roots vibe and staying official to Rasta music.
Selectahs Red Fyah and Bamboo have run many dancehall/ reggae and hip hop nights in the Portland since they formed in 2006 and can be found be found opening for many big names around the Portland area. Red Fyah took Soljah to the next level in 2009 when they began to host shows and has since become one of the biggest promoters of reggae music in the NW under Rebel Lion Music. "Straight outta Jah Army Soljah come fi battle di wicked. The dance floor ah di battlefield and Jah Music is InI Weapon and when it hit dem they feel no pain!"
Jagga Culture is Portland's true original dancehall Rasta straight outta Montego Bay, Jamaica.. With authentic Jamaican style Jagga's versatile sound can go from hard dancehall to roots lover's rock vibes and all sounds between. When Jagga performs the stage burn up every time. Cyaan cool the man so the fyah haffi burn hot!!!
Cahli Roots Love aka Sister Soljress aka Koreen Elizabeth is one of Portland's premier bellydancers and is an original core member of Apsara and founding member of Gypsy Roots. Cahli is the creator of roots-fusion bellydance style, which combines Tribal Fusion Bellydance with the sounds, vibrations and movements of roots reggae music, and is also creator of bellydancehall fusion which combines Tribal Fusion style with riddims and dances from Jamaican dancehall. Cahli lights up stages every time she performs as people are mesmerized by her beauty and talent. Dont miss her spotlight performance on Thursday with Soljah Sound and check for her with Gypsy Roots later in the weekend.
FEATURE ARTIST ON THE LION STAGE
Gypsy Roots, the world’s FIRST Reggae Fusion Belly Dance Crew is based in Portland, Oregon since early 2011. Gypsy Roots is a co-creative effort with
Sister Soljress, JayaRose Oneness, and Empress MaurEye.
Striving toward alignment with the Rasta Way of life, mindset, and social movement, Gypsy Roots offers an authentic form of expression through dance. Gypsy Roots Reggae Fusion bellydance is our collective contribution to the art forms and cultures of Bellydance, Reggae, and the Rastafari Movement. Our purpose is above all to honor and elevate women and men in the spirit of LOVE and UNITY.
Denbaya Drum and Dance is a non-profit organization based in Eugene, Oregon, that promotes intercultural understanding through performing arts and education. Denbaya means ‘family that we serve’ in the Mande language. They are an all-embracing family of artists, dancers, musicians and students sharing our inspiration with the community.
With the help of the community they have completed our new studio located at 1325 Jefferson St, near 13th Ave. They have a full schedule of classes and special artists that pass through from out of town. Join their mailing list for workshops, unique events and Denbaya shows and check our schedule page for an up to date list of classes.
Loveness Wesa spent over 14 years’ as an experienced dancer, choreographer, actress, singer, and producer in her native Zimbabwe. She was first exposed to the traditional music and dance of her country as a small child watching her mother, aunt, and grandmother, who were Sangomas, the traditional spirit mediums who use song and dance to channel ancestral spirits.
In 1989, while still in secondary school, Loveness Wesa joined the Amakhosi Theatre in Bulawayo where she studied music, dance, acting, choreographing, scriptwriting, and stage design with the leading artists of Zimbabwe. In 1998 Loveness founded the Kgotso African Dance Theatre as a vehicle for bringing works by women artists to Zimbabwe’s stage. She then spent many year touring around the world with as a singer and dancer with Dr. Thomas Mapfumo’s band. Moving to Portland in 2002, Loveness has continues to perform and record with her band the Bantus, as well as teaching classes in dance, music, and traditional crafts.
IN THE DANCE HALL LATE NIGHT
FRIDAY
Brimstone Sounds is amplifying the revolution NOW!
DJ Crown is a human that loves humanity, all of it, and strives to overstand what it is that makes certain people tick; anthropology in action. 1, 2 DO GOOD order. free yourself from your own inhibitions and touch the sky.
Brimstone Sounds selects the best in reggae, dancehall and hip hop music at least 3 nights a week in Eugene, Oregon; new joints, the classics, the obscure, and the rarities. He will be bring it to a long four set to the festival for Friday night. Also don’t forget to check out their craft booth Blessed Botanicals.
SATURDAY
The West Coast is the Blessed Coast. From North to South, East to West, Blessed Coast Sound rams the dance with everything from classic Reggae to hot off the press dance music from around the world. From producing top notch mixed CD’s & Remixes to facilitating tours for International artists, Blessed Coast Sound takes Reggae & Dance music from the west coast to the 4 corners of the earth and has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
Founded in the early 1990’s with a love for reggae music and a growing vinyl collection, Ryan-I and Lionize started Blessed Coast Sound in Northern California. As Blessed Coast grew, Lionize and Ryan-I expanded the sound south to Santa Cruz and north to Seattle. In 2005, Blessed Coast found a new home in Bellingham, WA and joined forces with the mighty selecta from Kalamazoo Michigan, DJ Triple Crown. They have the a force in the NW movement ever since. For DJ booking, soundsystem events, remixes, artist bookings and world tour management, link the Blessed Coast Sound!
A rich life balances both hard work with the luxuries afforded by one’s labor. To understand Bobby Hustle, you’ll have to understand the origins of this Seattle, Washington native. Bringing reggae to a city known for Hendrix, Nirvana and the grunge alike, Bobby reminds the masses that Seattle has room for reggae. Representing Seattle and its own islands with the support of Dynasty Records, Bobby Hustle invites you to his…well, his hustle. The Hustle’s music is a result of his lifelong love for reggae and tireless hours in the studio finding his voice. Bobby’s message fits in with the overall mission of the Dynasty Records crew, to bring modern reggae to a wider audience of listeners and in so doing help build the "dynasty" for reggae worldwide. Considered an up-and-coming talent, the support and producing expertise of Dynasty Records allows Bobby to be a total artist. His knack for writing strong hooks and flowing on the latest trends in music are clear signs that this is an artist whose time to shine is here.
SUNDAY ON THE MAIN STAGE
On a mission to create positive energy thru music and herb! The Herbal Crew is on an Irie vibe to spread wisdom and love through the gift of music. The band is new, however, the collective years of music experience between the band members helped us jump right into the local scene and begin etching our name amongst the local dub-soldiers. Stay tuned 541, they just get this party started! "The hardest working band in Oregon" says Gary Potter of Lost Forest Recordings.
In life, we all face the choice of following the conventional “mainstream” or following our hearts and embracing a road designed by a higher power to help us make good on our purpose. When faced with that decision, Portland, Oregon born, bred, and based artist Madgesdiq chose to set his hoop dreams and family legacy aside, to spread his message of love and unity through the power of words and music.When Madgesdiq steps onstage, you’re not just witnessing an M.C. whose positive energy ministers the universal message of self‐acceptance and meaningful living, you are also encountering an infectious spirit who is ready to take the world by storm in the name of love and divine purpose.When it comes to truth that shines an undeniable light through eloquent lyricism and ordered steps, you need not look any further than Madgesdiq. In him, you find an engaging personality destined to touch the lives of many, all while staying true to who he is and doing what he loves, inspiring others to do the same
From the Heart of Cascadia ( Aka. the Pacific North West) Sara Tone & the Earth Tribe Gospel are offering up the music of and for the land. Salmon Nation, Mountain Streams, Rivers and Creeks back to the Ocean, Back to the Sea....This is Musical Medicine for the People. To Inspire and Unite, Unity through Sound CommUnity through Music....Exploring the Realms of Deep Roots, Gospel~Kirtan, Acoustic Mystical Soul Dub with some deep Rainbow Inspiration...Music to Sing, to Dance, to Laugh and to Cry.....May this Music Stream in Peace, Songs of Blessings & Thanks, Healing and Remembrance. Come open to this Big Love Emanation~ In Peace and Unity~
This Powerful Music has been involved in Sacred Arts and Sustainability events throughout the NW, West Coast, Hawaii and East Coast...
Since his early youth in Texas, Newel has done one thing better than most -- play guitar. Moving to the northwest hotbed of music Eugene, Oregon in the Mid 1980’s, he performed with many of the regions seminal acts including Curtis Salgado and the Stillettos. Forming Dub Squad in 1988, they went on to tour the world with a fusion a reggae/ska base, topped with a helping of rock and soul, some jazz and funk, and a dash of other Caribbean styles bound together with conscious and positive lyrics and musical imagination.
Family life and a need to stop moving, Newel settle in Portland. He continuing to move the music as a member of the horn driven reggae unit, The Instigators and as a sideman for many acts in Portland. He has been a music educator and is a grandfather. Newel has performed on our stage all 9 years, one in nine acts. He will be performing for and teaching the youth
both Saturday and Sunday in the Oak Grove.
Acoustic Mystical Soul, bringing in the newest old sounds to help all remember where we've come from in hopes of helping steer where we're going into a good path. She offer this musical stream as a Big Love Emanation.Sara will bringing in the 'new venue' via community gathering's of co-empowerment. She is the “Musical Midwife” of the New Paradigm Sara will also be performing with her band, The Earth Tribe Gospel - Sunday on the main stage.
Tyleena Winslow aka The Fairy Funk Mother, has been educating and entertaining the youth in the Portland area for many years. She will be reading stories, setting them to music and playing instruments as the Children at the NWWRF's Oak Grove sing and dance the day way! These days she is hosting private Children's Birthday Parties, where they play musical games, sing and dance together and she is leading the Pre-School music lessons that involve Music and Movement at several NW Portland schools. The Youth will be mesmerized and motivated by TFFM's message of love.
2013 WEEKEND SELECTAH'S
The I-nification Movement is a project of Toby Newburgh aka King Toby.
The I-nification Movement is a militantly conscious Reggae Sound System.The I-nification Movement is a graphics design and visual arts studio. The I-nification Movement offers Architectural design and consulting services.
The I-nification Movement is ready for any righteous works striving to uplift humanity and praise JAH without apology.
After experimenting with various musical instruments in his formative years, DJ/Selecta Element started rapping as MC Element in 1993, at the age of 13. It wasn't until 1997 that Element, with a move to the Northwest, started spinning records in Seattle. This is when Element discovered that DJing was a true calling and committed to crafting his style and developing his art. Zions Gate Sound was formed in 1998
In early 2009 DJ Chukki (Dynasty Records Official DJ) joined Zions Gate Sound, along with MC Ras Malawi.
Look out for big things from Seattle's Champion sound - ZIONS GATE SOUND
Long time reggae selector...started on KBOO in 1987, moved to Jamaica in 1996, operated a sound system and worked at various clubs and events...returned to PDX and KBOO in 2002...Live and Direct Reggae Radio Juggling Tuesdays 12 - 3 AM on KBOO 90.7 PM
2013 WEEKEND MC'S
Line up Subject to Change.
