A Look Back

Blogging about Caribbean events has been a interesting journey for me. I began as just a commentator and by the end I was promoting Caribbean events myself. Writing this blog made me realized that I was actually a niche member in the niche audience I was trying to reach. I also enjoyed sharing my thoughts on my culture and the culture of other Caribbean islands. This blog also illustrates that Caribbean culture is prevalent all over the world and touches people from all walks of life.

I interviewed Caribbean students in the area to get their opinion of events in the area. I also interviewed DJs in the area.

The Caribbean scene in Baltimore is more geared to patrons 21 and older but they are a few that are held for college age students. Most of events are held closer to the city or in the Park Heights area.

I think that this scene is constantly getting bigger with more events being planned and organized.

Lengendary Stone Love Grew in Baltimore

Blood Tear Promotions presents The Annual History on Saturday June 20. 2009.
This party features two sounds directly from Jamaica. Stone Love is the most recognized DJ crew in the island and been so for more than two decades. The other grew is called Bass Odyssey. Three Djs that have been mentioned in previous post will also be playing at this party. High Rollaz, Upsetta and Raw Deal will be in the building.

The flyer does not give a lot of information so I can not provide anymore.

Dancehall artist: Sean Paul

Sean Paul is on of the top dance hall artist and is one of more recognizable Caribbean artist in America. He is responsible for top charting hits like "Jus give the light," "We be Burning," and "Get Busy."
Sean Paul stands out in the dance hall scene because he is an uptown boy(middle class), while the majority of dance hall artist are from downtown(poor areas). Sean is also a mixture of Chinese, Black and Portuguese which contradicts the stereotype that believes all Jamaicans are blakc and have dread locks.

Sean Paul's fist hit was Infiltrate this song was hot for over two years in Jamaica and still gets ratings whenever it is played in parties. This song was his launching pad into star down and he did not turn back. Sean Paul is now the top selling dance hall artist of all time with two multi- platinum albums, Trinity and Dutty Rock.

Sean is one of my favorite artist because I am also an uptown boy and I think he does a great job of promoting a positive image of dance hall music. Sean's lyrics are also great to sing and dance to with girls, that boy could sweet talk any girl in my opinion and girls love dancing to Sean Paul Songs.

Baltimore's Own Dance Hall Queen Compettion

Zodiak Promotions, Ricky Chin and High Rollaz Booking Agency presents Baltimore's 4th annual Dance Hall competition on June Friday 12, 2009.
The dance hall queen is a dance competition that originated in Jamaica. It is a dance off where women do all kinds of scandalous dance moves. This is definitely an adult event and is rated R. To give a mental picture it is like being at a strip club but the girls keep their clothes on and men are not throwing money at them. When I was a child growing up in Jamaica my mom banned me from watching the dance hall videos my friend had.

With the warning out the way, I think this would be great event to attend to get a first hand experience of an authentic dance hall tradition.
Ladies if you are trying to win some money and a trip to Jamaica this competition is for you. The winner's prize is $1500 and a trip to Jamaica, 2nd place gets $1000 and 3rd gets $500. The promoters will also will be giving away a I POD Touch as a gate prize.

Event Details:

When: Friday June 12 2009

Where: Sankofa Center for Cultural Enrichment.

Cost: $20

Music:High Rollaz, Upsetta and Raw Deal





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Ragga Showdown

I found this event on Facebook while going through all the events that I have been invited to. It caught my eye because my boy DJ Lawless will be playing there. Lawless has played for events that I have planned and attended, he one of the hottest dance hall DJs in the college party scene.
The party is being hosted my North Face Entertainment. I have not heard of this group before, but if they have booked Lawless I know they have good taste in music, at least. This party is also an 18 and older event so this party is definitely for you college students out there.

Party Details

When: Friday May 15th 2009

Where: Bobby's Lounge 8200 Pulaski Highway, Baltimore Md.

Cost: Ladies Free before 11 p.m. Gentlemen $10 before midnight.

Dress Code: Ladies; Fly and Sexy. Gentlemen; Casual

DJs: Lawless and Raymond


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Caribbean Dance: World Dance

World Dance is another dance created legendary Jamaican dancer Bogle. The dance looks gooffy but is really fun to do, and once you got the move down its an easy but cool dance to know. World famous dance hall artist Beenie Man sang the song and the video features Bogle doing the dance in an Jamaican neighborhood.

I decided to share this dance with you guys because this was my first favorite dance hall dance. I remember watching the music video for the dance and mimicking what I saw. My maid would critique me until I could do just like Bogle did in the video. The dance was popular for three years straight. There were teachers at my prep school that even knew the dance(yea, it was that popular.

The dance is easy to learn, just watch the video and focus on the movements of the legs and the arms. Once you got that down all you got to do is learn the rhythm of the dance.

Caribbean Night each and every Saturday

Caribbean Nights goes down every Saturday at the Windsor Inn and is hosted by Celebrity Entertainment and Golden Touch Productions.

The promoters are marketing this party as playing the best in Caribbean music. If they are right this event should be a priority to attend for lovers of Caribbean music. Three Djs will be mixing DJ Smally, DJ Signal and DJ Acid who actually are the members of Golden Touch Productions.


For more information contact Tony at (410)-336-3814.



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Caribbean Dance: No Linga

The dancehall dance, No Linga, looks to be the next hott dancehall dance, and could eventually taker over the Willy bounce's reign as the most generic dancehall dance style. The dance was created by Jamaican dancer/artiste, Ova-Marz,of the Ravers Clavers dance crew, which is the biggest and most respected dance grew in Jamaica. Members of Ravers Clavers are students of dance king Bogle.
Elephant Man making a song for No Linga gave it a stamp of approval in the dancehall scenne. Elephant Man has done videos for classics like Willie Bounce, Scobby Doo, and "rude boys'" favorite Gully Crepper.




I was introduced to the dance in December 2008 by my cousin-in-law in Toronto, while we were talking about new dancehall dances. I have yet to master it, so I will not be in this instructional video. However I have embedded the a video of Ova Marz doing the dance, linked the music video for the song by Elephant Man, plus an instructional video I found of YouTube(I wanted to embed this one but the option was disabled on the site)

DJ Ablaze 3rd Annual Birthday Bash

This event is being hosted by Gansta Marv and Kanaris and is celebrating the birthday of DJ Ablaze.
I picked this party from the yahsomideh website because I know about DJ Ablaze.
Someone gave me one of his mixtape CDs after leaving a club and it was really good. My friend, Mathais, and I played it in my car for a month straight. I also met someone from Jamaica who is personal friends with DJ Ablaze. Ablaze lives in Maryland.


I think this party could be pretty good because it is a birthday party for one of the more popular dance hall DJs in the Baltimore area. There will also be a live video recording that will be seen on Reggae Unplugged T.V. So with that said dress to impress!

Here are the Details.

When: Saturday May 9th 2009

Where: The Rio Bravo, 2031 University Blvd. Hyattsville Md.

Music: Danger from Philly, Half Krazy, Amplex

Cost: $20 before 1 a.m.

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Niche Audience Member Interview: Roland Roberts

Roland is the co-president of Towson University's Caribbean Student Association. Roland is originally from Grenada, and grew up New York before moving to Baltimore to attend school.



Roland is musician at heart and plays the bass guitar. He also likes to attend concerts of a varied musical genres like reggae, rock, metal and alternative. I interviewed Roland because he knows about some of the DJs in the area, so I thought it would be interesting to have do a video interview for Blogival.

Noche Latina: Carnival

All of my previous blogs about Caribbean events in the Towson/Baltimore area have been from English speaking islands. However, there are Spanish speaking islands in the Caribbean as well; Cuba, Puerto Rico and The Dominican Republic. Blogival's purpose is to spread awareness off all Caribbean events, so I found an event with some Latin flavor.

Towson University's Latin American Student Association will be hosting Noche Latina(Latin night) on Friday May 8th. Carnival will be the theme for this semester's Noche Latina. With that theme in mind I definitely recommend wearing brightly colored attire.
LASO's night of cultural celebration will feature Latin cuisine, a Capoeira exhibition, a salsa performance and work shop, and carnival mask making.
Music genres from across the Caribbean will be played salsa, reggaeton, samba, reggae and merengue.

Details:
Where: Towson University's University Union, Susquehanna Terrace
When: 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. 5/8/2009
Price: FREE!!!!!

Niche Audience Member Interview: Greg Martin

Greg is a junior at Towson University and is from Brooklyn NY. His family is from Guyana which is in South America but is considered a Caribbean country. He is also a member of Towson University's Caribbean Student Association.



Greg has a love for Caribbean music, especially the old school stuff. Beres Hammond is his favorite artist. To put that into context for you, it is like having a college friend whose favorite singer is Smokey Robinson. Greg also hooks me up with hot new Caribbean songs on my ipod, for free I might add lol.

Yahsomideh Baltimore Caribbean Event website.

While searching the web for blogs related to Blogival's topic, I found a website that's a perfect resource for people interested in finding Caribbean events in the Baltimore, Towson area. I checked out the site and it is a credible source with many party listings. For example there is a picture on the homepage of DJ Sir Bingz, who is one of the top DJs in the area.TheYahsomideh also has other features like a photo gallery from past events, a forum and links to other related sites.

The name of the website clearly pays homage to Jamaican patoi(broken English). Yah so mi deh is roughly translated to "This is where I am,". This gives the site instant approval from Caribbean people because our accents are one of our most unique characteristics.

Definitely check out this website you will find something to attend, hear fresh music from the Caribbean and learn about people in the Baltimore Caribbean event scene.

Caribbean Party of the Week

I found the flyer for this party at the Blue Caribbean Lounge which is a Caribbean hot spot in the
Baltimore area. It features two DJs that were recommended by my friend DJ Sir Bingz, who is one of the best DJs in this area.

The name of the party is The Annual Girls Gone Wild and is being hosted by 2D Hardway Promotions.

When: Saturday April 25th 2009. 10:00 p.m.

Where: Sankofa Center for Cultural Enrichment. 2901 Druid Park Drive, Baltimore Md. 21215

How Much: $20 for Ladies and Gentlemen before 1 a.m.

Sounds: High Rollaz, Half Krazy, C4 and Kalico


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Rep Your Flag Party. Saturday

Wild Out Ent. and 4 My People Production presents Rep Your Flag, this Saturday, April 18th at Portofino Lounge.
Come represent your island, country, hood, suburb, school etc. at this party. Bring a Flag or wear something that symbolizes where your from. We want to see as many different places represented as possible. Help us bring the world to Towson. I myself will be proudly wearing blue and yellow(colors in Barbados' flag), and you will catch me waving my flag high in the air.

Here is the 411 for the Rep Your Flag.

When: 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

How much: Ladies free before midnight,$5 after. Gentlemen $5 before 11 p.m., $12 after. 18 to enter 21 to drink.

DJs: DJ Lawless and DJ Jahstone

Niche Audience Member Interview: Melissa Hamm

Melissa is an International student at Towson University. She is a member of Towson's CSA and is from the island of Anguilla. Melissa is new to the Towson area, but because she is from the Caribbean she brings that unique island mentality about night life. That is why I interviewed her for Blogival. Melissa also contributed to the planning of the CSA's Island Fever earlier this semester. Island Fever turned out to be the best Caribbean house party this semester at Towson. Well it won by default because it was the only I knew about or attended, but it was difinately a raver.

Niche Audience Member Interview: Nefertede Sterling

Nefertede a member of Towson University's Caribbean Student Association, is someone that I have seen at many of the Caribbean events I have attended in my 3 years while at Towson. She has also attended parties I have planned.(Thanks for the support girl). I thought she would be a great person to interview for Blogival because she is a active niche member, which gives her some authority on the topic of my blog.

Nefertede has a Jamiacan parent and grew up in Bronx, NY. She is a senior Biology major.

International Fridays, April 10th

There was an observation from last Friday's Dancehall Fridays. The patrons were from countries from all over world Burma, Kenya,Mexico,Jamaica,Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Nigeria just to name a few. So with that in mind we made a little change.

The name of the party is now International Fridays. It will be held at the same place as last week's event, Portofino Lounge.

Sounds will be provided by DJ Lawless, DJ Jah Stone and for the first time DJ Spektakula. These DJs will definitely help you get your "freak on" on the dance floor lol.

Here are the party details.

When: 10:00p.m. to 4:00a.m. April 10th

Cost: Ladies $3 before 11:30, Fellas $7 before 11:30


Come and check out the new hot dance spot on a Friday night in the Towson area, You don't have to be International to party with us, we welcome everybody.

Caribbean Dance: Willie Bounce

The Willie Bounce is the most generic dancehall dance style, it even has its own music video. Mr. Bogle, the dancehall king, created Willie Bounce shortly before his death. This is the main reason why the dance became so popular because it will always remind dancehall lovers of Mr. Bogle and all his legendary moves. Willie Bounce is now three years old but has yet to go out of style, I personally think it never will. Any dancehall party you attend you will see at least one person Willie Bouncing, I guarantee you.

The Willie bounce is hard to describe with words, and must be seen to get a full grasp of the moves and rhythm of the dance. I will be doing an instructional video with one of my Jamaican friends that attends Towson University. I will also embed Sean Paul's video "We Be Burning", which features the Willie Bounce through out the entire video. Watch and learn so you can impress you friends with you correct Willie Bounce techniques.

Interesting fact; Michelle, the girl in the beginning of the linked Willie bounce video is a friend of Hnin, the Willie bounce instructor. What a small world. lol

DJ Jah Stone Interview

DJ Jah Stone is one of the main Djs for Dancehall Fridays. I did a video interview with him at the start of last night's party, to get his thoughts about the Caribbean scene in the Towson area. Jah Stone is from the island of Trinidad and Tobago.

Dancehall Fridays review

Last night was the first Dancehall Fridays at Portofino's, which was brought to you by Wild Out Entertainment and 4 My people Productions.
The dance floor filled slowly but by 1:00 a.m., it got crowded and the people in attendance started dancing. DJ Jah Stone and DJ Lawless played on the one and twos. They played more than dancehall which I think is good because it got the entire crowd into the party. Some of the hottest songs in hip-hop, African, and soca was played.
One thing thing I noticed was that people came out dressed to impress, especially the ladies who were rocking heels and "sexy outfits" lol.

This would have been an amazing party if people showed up a little bit earlier and if say 15 more people attended. However the people who attended definitely had a fun time and raved till 4 a.m. I myself being one of them is really tired and woke up Saturday at 1:30 p.m in the afternoon. What can I say; it's college.lol

See you next Friday at Dancehall Fridays at Portofino's. Its going to get bigger and better in the weeks to come.

Look out for the DJ Jah Stone Interview.

Chris Ma-Umba of 4 My People Productions Interview

Chris is a friend and business associate of mine. I did this interview with Chris so that you readers out there could get to know one of newest and hardest working promoters in the college Caribbean scene. Sorry for the poor lighting. My camera is not that good, I had three lights on in the room. Hope you still enjoy it.

I'm Back in Business, Time to Wild Out

I am happy and excited to announce that my entertainment company Wild Out Entertainment is back in business and will be hosting Caribbean events in the Towson area. The first event will be Dance Hall Fridays which will be going down each and every week at Portofino's Lounge.
I took a break from planning and promoting parties for two reasons: I wanted to concentrate on school for my last semester and there was a lack of venues in this area that would have 18 and older events.
I decided to get back into the Caribbean party promoting scene for three reasons: I am writing a blog about Caribbean events so why not throw them myself, my friends and I found a location willing to have 18 and older events and I need money,being broke is not fun.

I founded Wild Out Entertainment with my friend and roommate Mathais Okpo in January 2008. The mission of Wild Out Ent. is to bring authentically themed Caribbean events to Towson University and surrounding colleges. We felt there was void of dance hall parties for college students and the ones that were going on where usually more than 30 mins. away from school. Wild Out Ent. also aims to portray Caribbean culture in the most positive manner as possible.

So come and Wild Out with me and my friends each and every Friday @ Portofino's Lounge.

Jimi Payne(pink hat) and Mathais Okpo of Wild Out Ent.

Calling All The Dancers!! This Wednesday April 1st

Flyy Society presents "Nuh Linga and Sweep"
Flyy Society is one of the premiere college Caribbean event promoters in the Towson/Baltimore area. The members of the group attend Morgan State University. Their patron base, however also includes students from Towson University, Goucher College, Loyola andUMBC.
If you are a dance hall dancer or want to see the newest and hottest dances from Jamaica this party is definately for you. Here are the detials.

When:
Wednesday April 1st 2009. 10:00 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Where:
The Glass House, 4339 York road, Baltimore Md.

How Much:
Ladies free before 10:30 p.m.
Fellas $10 before 10:30 p.m.

DJs:
DJ Buddah,DJ Lawless, DJ King Dave and S Squad Entertainment.

Specials:
Shuttle leaving Morgan State University at 10:30 p.m.
Open Bar Specials

Contact Information:

443 813 3321 ask for Jay
Flyysociety@gmail.com

Good News--Dance Hall Fridays

Towson's Caribbean night life scene is very small especially when it comes to college aged people. Well I have some great news for all you dancehall and soca lovers out there in the baltimore area.
4 My People productions,good friends of yours truely, will now will be hosting events every Friday night at Portofino Restuarant. Portofino's is walking distance from Towson Univeristy, so this will make it very easy to check out these parties. Here is the icing on the cake: These parties WILL Be 18 and Older.

These parties will feature some of the top DJs in the area. I know DJ Lawless (repping Trinidad) and DJ Natty B(repping Jamaica) will definitely play at some of the parties, since they are associates of Momo and Chris, founders of 4 My People Productions.

Contact Info: 442 822 2632

Stay Tuned for more Details.

Into DA Dancehall Interview

Jarrel Taitt is a Towson University alumni. More importantly Taitt is from the island of Guyanna, and loves dancehall and soca music. I have known Taitt for about two years now and he is a regular in the Towson University Caribbean party scene. One of the best Caribbean house parties in the Towson area I have attended was at Taitt's house and he was the Dj of the night. e

I interviewed Taitt at Into Da Dancehall to get his thoughts of the party and also for are You guys out there to get a chance to hear an authentic Caribbean accent.

Into DA Dancehall..Cant Miss Party

4 MY People Production & Afrodynamix presents: Into Da Dancehall

Let me just say. I guarantee this party is Going to Be a Dancing Frenzy, I personally know the two top Djs playing. DJ Lawless is one the hottest dance hall djs in the Towson/Baltimore area. If you go to an 18 and older dancehall party in this area chances are DJ Lawless,or someone in his grew, will be playing.
The party is walking distance from Towson University, on the corner of Washington Ave. Here are the Details.

When:
Friday, March 27th 2009 from 10p.m till 4a.m.

Where:
Portofino Lounge, 200 Washington Ave. Towson, MD 21204

How Much:
Ladies: $12 after midnight. Groups of four or more ladies get in for $8 after midnight.
Gentlemen: $12 before 11 p.m. more after that.

DJs: Dj Lawless, Dj Jerell, DJ Jah Stone and DJ Raymond

Specials:
All drinks $4 before midnight. Ladies in groups of four or more free before midnight.

Dress Code:
Dress to impress. No baggy jeans, no sweatpants, no hoddies, no boots,no baseball hats.

I will be doing some video blogs for this party so stayed tuned.

5 Questions with DJ Bonnie Natty B

First impressions are lasting impressions. I say that because I will never forget the first time I met, DJ Bonnie Natty B, the subject for my five questions, he saved me and my business partners from a possible disastrous party that could have ruined the reputations of our entertainment groups, Wild Out Entertainment and IV My People Productions.
Here is a summary of my initial encounter with this talented DJ. The party was suppose to start at 10:30 p.m. and the DJ with the speakers was not there and he was not answering his phone. Natty B however was on time, which was very professional of him. The DJ with the speakers showed up one and half hours later.
Patrons were starting to show up and there was no music at a dance party. I felt so embarrassed that I wanted to hide in the corner, but I kept my cool and told the patrons to please be patient while we solved the music problem.
We finally got the speakers set up at 12:00 a.m. Right before Natty B started mixing I grabbed him to the side and said something along the lines of, "I need you to bring the tunes when you go on, hit them with the hits. You have to get these people on the dance floor before they leave and tell their friends never to attend one of my parties ever again. I can't f*#!ing afford that, literally! I need you Natty to bring it and I mean bring it."
Boy did he bring it. The dance floor was soon a sea of people dancing, it was like magic how he saved the day. Friends of mine were coming up to me asking, "Who is that DJ," others were amazed by how he seemed to play everyones' favorite song that night.
I personally forgot about the two hour delay, danced all night with beautiful girls, and the party was very profitable(what else can you ask for lol). It was all because of Natty B and I will be forever be thankful to him.
Well I hope you enjoyed that short story, here are the five questions.

Q: How long have u been a DJ, and why did you want to be a DJ?
A: I have been a DJ for like three years now. I wanted to be one of those spreading positive messages through music and create a vital connection with the rest of the world.

Q: Who are your DJ mentors? how did they influence you?
A: My mentors are legends who have been in the game for quite some time. DJs like Trigga, Prince, Biggz, Teflon, Ablaze and Upsetta.

Q: In your opinion where are the hot spots for Caribbean events in the Baltimore/Towson area?
A: Blue Carribean, Windsor Inn, Sankofa, CrossRoads, Potters Place, Boyz n' Girlz Club.

Q: Do you know of people or websites that blog about Caribbean events in the area? if yes list all that you know.
A: You can find out more about whats going on in the DMV by checking out http://www.blogger.com/www.yahsomideh.com

Q: What cultural effects do Caribbean events have on this area?
A: These events create awareness and bring people together hence promoting unity and spreading life changing information especially through music.

Check out Natty B on Facebook, search his name. To listen to some of his mixes check out the site I linked to his name.

"Have another Island Fever Party Soooooooooon!"

As I stated in the previous post the party Island Fever was a great success. It was one of the best parties I have ever been involved with socially and financially.
I wanted to interview someone who attended the party to get their perspective of the event so I could have evidence from another source backing up my praises of Island Fever. I also wanted a non-Caribbean person's opinion of the party in an attempt to see how my culture affects people and if Caribbean culture can be appreciated by them.
Megan Bidgood,19, is a sophomore at Towson University. She is from New Jersey but unlike the majority of her Jersey counterparts Megan socializes with mostly non-New Jersey people. I admire her openness to diversity and have personally seen her at a wide variety of parties at Towson. Here is Megan's take on Island Fever.

Q: Will you attend another party hosted by the Caribbean student association of Towson? If yes, why?
A: Yes! I had a lot of fun. I thought everyone was really nice and it was very official with the people pouring the drinks.

Q: What was your favorite part of that night?
A: My favorite part was the atmosphere and the island fever drink...very yum.

Q: Do you think your friends enjoyed themselves?
A: Yes I know they did, we can't wait until the next one!

Q: Did u like the music that was played at the party?
A: Yea, I'm a big fan of all music so any type is good with me.

Q:Has this event opened your eyes to attending more Caribbean themed parties?
A: Definately, Next time I hear of a caribbean party I will be totally down for going.

Caribbean Student Association Party

Island Fever, the party the Caribbean Student Association at Towson University held last weekend was a smash hit, which had patrons requesting for another one ASAP. This was one of the best parties I have been to this weekend, and everyone that attended I have talked to said they loved Island Fever. It also should be noted that most of the people at the party were not from the Caribbean, this proves that people fro all walks of life can have a good time at a Caribbean party.
The CSA is back at it again this Friday with The Wine Down Spring Break Jump off. This event will classier and will be held at the Akbar lounge in Randallstown. Music will be provided by DJ Davey from Trinidad and Tobago. DJ Davey has a very diverse stlye, he knows how to keep the crowd's energy going and he plays new and old dancehall, reggae, hip hop and soca.
Gentlemen come dressed to impress and ladies break out your favorite dress and high heels for this event. The details of the party are on the flyer, see you tonight.

Dancehall King Bogle Tribute Party

Gerald "Bogle" Levy, 1964-2005, was and will forever be the king of dancing in the dancehall scene. Bogle is the inventor of classic dances such as the 'Bogle Dance' and 'Willy Bounce.' He also gave credibility to the dancing scene in Jamaica and across the world. A party this Saturday Feb. 28 will be hosted in tribute to this legend.

The name of the party is Dancin' Extravaganza part III, The Annual Dancers Linkup. It is being held at Sankofa Center for Cultural Enrichment 2901 Druid Park Drive Baltimore Md. 21215. Music will be provided by High Rollaz, Vybz Machine and Upsetta. An array of local and international dancers will be performing. Featured dancers include Dip Squad(D.C.), Show Stoppa(Miami), Krazy Hype(NY), Famous Yute(VA), Lethal(Jamaica) and Ricky Chin(Baltimore).

For anyone who loves dancehall dances or wants to learn more about this unique cultural art form, this party is definitely a priority this weekend. R.I.P Mr. Bogle.

For more information call: 443-629-3166

Caribbean Dances

I love dancing to dance hall, reggae, calypso, and soca music and so does about every Caribbean person, its in our blood. The rhythms, beats and melodies of the music makes you move, it has such an energetic vibe to it.

The most basic dance is whining. you whine by rolling your hips in a clockwise motion to the beat of the music. It can be seen is basically every dance hall or soca music video. Whining can look like what is called "freak dancing" in the U.S., when done really fast when a man and woman are dancing together. Whining can also look like salsa when done slowly.

I personally love to whine, it is a Bajan (native of Barbados) thing. I remember being in elementary school and teachers teaching the students how to whine. I was a natural from the start and could whine down to the ground and back up. I couldn't wait to show of my moves my first time in a Carnival, I practiced in my costume for a week before Crop Over day(name of the carnival day in Barbados.)
Being able to whine also comes in handy when I dance with girls in the states because I can follow their waists' wherever they go. it's fun to hear, "you are such a good dancer." I just follow their lead, it's really not that hard.
Whining is a easy and fun dance to learn and do, so next time you hit the dance floor, whine up your waistline.

Here are some videos showing this classic Caribbean dance move.

Towson University Caribbean Student Association Event

I am particularly excited about this post because it is a Caribbean event that I am planning and promoting for one of my clubs at Towson University. I serve on the Caribbean Student Association's events board and this our first event of the year.

The name is Island Fever and it is being thrown as a funding raising event for the Caribbean Student Association. Since this we are doing this to raise money for our club we will be charging five dollars at the door, and this will allow you to drink our house drink,Island fever, all night. We welcome people from all walks of life being from the Caribbean is not a requirement for entry.

Island Fever goes down on Friday 27th and begins at 10:30. The address is 1301 Colbury Rd. Apt. J. Music will be provided yours truly so you know the music is going to be bumping all night long. If you like dancehall, soca, reggae and hip hop this party is for You! Come dressed to impress in bright, lively colors.

I will be posting some blogs this week about different dancehall dances that could done at Island Fever, so stay logged on to Blogival.

I.C.E Carnival Custome company interfiew.

Carnivals have been part of Caribbean culture since the times of slavery. For the slaves it was a chance to get away from the hard labor and a chance to wear something different than their ragged work clothes. West Indian people now celebrate carnivals in our respective islands to pay homage to our slave ancestors and also because is just really really fun.

Costumes are the most important thing for any carnival, they set the mode and the atmosphere. In my profile picture I am in costume for Carnival in Barbados.

I.C.E Carnival is one of the premiere costume making companies in the country. Founder Brian K. Jordan and his wife, who are originally from Trinidad and Tobago started the company because they felt the could fill a void. It should be noted that there is a Carnival that is held every summer in Washington D.C.

Q: Why and When did you start Ice Carnival?
A: "I.C.E. Carnival was an off-shoot of I.C.E. Entertainment, my promotional company. It was started in 2004 when many of my event patrons and my wife suggested that there was a void when it came to quality costumes in the DC Carnival parade. My wife asked if I would be interested in working with her to produce a section with another band, and the rest shall we say is history."

Q: What is the Caribbean nightlife like in the Towson, Baltimore area?
A: "Caribbean nightlife is fairly subdue in the Baltimore-Towson area. It's not as active as the DC area, That's for sure. Partly due to a lack of venues, and partly due to few promoters willing to take a chance on investing on events, due to the smaller Caribbean student population."
Q: Do you think there is a void in Caribbean events in the Towson, Baltimore area?
A: "There is a void and we'd love to work with the various student promotional groups to fill that void. Our Caribbean culture is too rich not to have it properly represented in the area."
Q: Do you know of Blogs about Caribbean events?
A: "Our friends Arious Entertainment are the only local blog that has been consistent and around for the last many years. Their blog is not only about Caribbean events but about other socio-political issues affecting the Caribbean-American population."


This is great company owned by honest hard working people. here is their website if you would like to look at designs of their costumes.
www.icecarnival.net

DJ Interview: Duane Powell of Stone Love

Meeting people that interest you or inspire you are some of the many reasons people decide to become journalist. As a journalist you have the opportunity to get a glimpse into people's lives through interviews. This interview is one I will never forget because I got to talk to Duane Powell of Stone Love. Powell is the son of founder, Winston "Wee Pow" Powell, and has been playing for eight years.
Stone Love Music is the number one sound system group in Jamaica. Stone Love was founded in 1972 and has become the perennial force in the industry. I remember growing up in Jamaica and hearing my older cousins and friends talking about Stone Love DJs and parties. How the parties are always corked(full), how loud the speakers were and how they danced with all these pretty girls to the hottest songs at that time.
This interview was not planned. After I finished my interview with DJ Sir Bingz he pointed to a guy sitting down and said he plays for Stone Love. I replied with asking, "Stone Love from Jamaica, Stone Love,? I introduced myself and jotted down a quick list questions to ask Duane.

Q:What brings you to Baltimore?
A:"I'm playing at a party tonight. Ricky's Valentines day bash."
Q: Is this the first time you have played in Baltimore?
A: "first time for me, but other guys from the group have played in Baltimore and in other places in the U.S."
Q:Who are the DJs that make up Stone Love.?
A: "Wee Pow, Rory, Billy Slaughter, G-Fuss, Bill Cosby, Diamond, Ice Berg, Duane Powell, Fire Ras and Black Fox."
Q: What makes Caribbean parties one of a kind?
A: "Well in the islands they you can party until the morning, and most of the times they are outside. But in general, all the different dances you see the dancers come up with. The dances catch on and then everyone is doing it along with the dancers."


http://www.imexpages.com/stonelove/

Dancehall Wednesdays and Hot Thursday

The Blue Caribbean Lounge is the hot spot for Caribbean parties in the Baltimore area. When I asked DJ Sir Bingz about the this subject he and another man in his barbershop quickly replied the Blue Caribbean.

I also have found memories of the Blue Caribbean Lounge. I happened to go there one night because one of my best friends from Jamaica, Chase, who now goes to school in Washington DC. was visiting me and I wanted to take him to place that played Caribbean music. I called a DJ friend of mine and he told me to meet him at the lounge. I'm glad we did because Chase and I had definitely were feeling the vibe all night, the music and the atmosphere made us feel like we at a session(party) back in Jamaica.

The Blue Caribbean host two parties on a weekly basis; Dancehall Wednesdays and Hot Thursday. Hot Thursday is described on its promotional flyers as the, "Biggest Caribbean party in Baltimore."

The party on Wednesdays starts at 8 p.m. and admission is free. All events at the venue are 21 and older. Dress code: no plain white T-shirts.

The party on Thursdays begins with a happy hour at 6 p.m. that features a free buffet, drink specials and apple martini. The dance party starts at 9p.m. Admission is free before 9:30.
Music provided my Jamdown Promotions and DJ Easy E.

The Blue Caribbean Lounge 5402 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, Md.

DJ Interview: DJ Sir Bingz of Jamdown

When you think of a Caribbean party what is the first thing that comes to your mind? I don't know about you, but loud music is my first response. Every Caribbean party will have music playing, the music is what sets the vibe and most people go to the parties to dance. I interviewed DJ Sir Bingz for this post so you guys out there can get to know more about one the best Caribbean DJs in the Baltimore area.

Sir Bingz, who is one of the founding members of the DJ and promotion group Jamdown, has been playing at Caribbean parties since 1991. He says his best quality is that he is versatile and is comfortable playing any kind of music to any type of crowd.

I can attest to this. I first met Sir Bingz at a party he was playing at. I danced all night to old and new songs of dancehall and soca. He was so good that I asked him for his business card, and have used his services for one of my own parties.

Since Bingz has knowledge about Caribbean events in this area he was an ideal person to find out where parties are, who promote them and in his opinion of the scene.

Q:Where is the hottest Caribbean night spot in the Towson, Baltimore area?
A: "The Blue Caribbean."
The Blue Caribbean located on 5402 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, Md.
Q: What promoters throw the best parties in this area?
A: 'Lone Star Promotions, Rebels Promotions and Jamdown Promotions."
Q: When and Where will you be playing next?
A: "At the Blue Caribbean, I am there every Thursday night."
Q: Describe the patrons of these parties, are they diverse?
A: "Yes it is diverse. There are people from different Islands, African Americans, Africans and even some English."
Q: In your opinion, what cultural effects do Caribbean events have on the Towson, Baltimore area?
A: "It definitely brings diversity to the area. It helps people from different cultures and backgrounds interact in a social environment."

I wanted to ask him more questions but he was in the middle of giving someone a haircut, so I didn't want to distract him to much.

www.jamdownworldwide/myspace.com

Legandary Stone Love playing at Valentines day Party

Stone Love is the premiere DJ grew in Jamaica and one of their members will be playing at this party. It starts at 11 p.m. so you still got time to make it.

High Rollaz Booking Agency in association with Flava Kids United presents: Ricky a.k.a Richie Rich Annual Valentines Birthday Bash @ Potters Place 3333 Frederick Ave. Baltimore, MD 21229.

$20 with a ticket, more at the door. A bottle of champagne for the first 50 Ladies before 1a.m. Free roses for all Ladies!

Music by: Duane Pow of Stone Love, High Rollaz, King Raw Deal and Emperor.

Happy Valentines Day.
http://www.imexpages.com/stonelove/

Party This Thursday: Sex Appeal

Here is the 411 for the party.

The name is Sex Appeal and it is being hosted by DJ Lawless. It goes down Thursday 12 with the doors opening at 9:00 p.m. The venue is Kildaries Lounge which is located at 6826 Hartford Rd. Baltimore Md. Kildaries Lounge is new bar located at the lower level of Finn bar and grill. There will be a live DJ every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

This should be a fun party because it is a new hot spot and because DJ Lawless will be playing the music. From personal experience Lawless knows how to get the crowd on the dance floor. Lawless has been the DJ of many of my most memorable Caribbean parties. He does an excellent job of mixing rap, reggae, dancehall and soca, so everyone gets to hear their favorite dance music.

This is a party you definitely should check out.
http://www.facebook.com/wall.php?id=39601958&banter_id=18419537#/event.php?eid=49346632927

Introduction

Hi my name is Jimi Payne and I am a senior broadcast journalism major at Towson University. My blog will be about Caribbean events in the Towson, Baltimore Maryland area. Blogival will be a place where people interested in Caribbean culture can come and find out about events to attend. I will also try to attend as many parties as possible so I can give a first hand critique of the events.

So why should you read my blog?

I am from the Caribbean. Born in Barbados, lived eight years in Jamaica.
I have know promoters and DJs in the Towson/Baltimore Caribbean night life scene.
I have organized and promoted Caribbean Events with my own company Wild Out Entertainment.
I listen to dancehall, soca, calypso and reggae music on a regular basis.
I serve on Towson University's Caribbean Student Association board as director of social events.

So stay tuned for more Blogival.