Staff Writer2014 A BAD YEAR FOR LOCAL REGGAE MUSIC—01/04/15
According to Billboard magazine, Jamaica is losing its hold on reggae to markets overseas. The publication showed that United States reggae acts outsold Jamaican reggae acts in June 2014, while by September, research by Billboard indicated the same situation. Non-Jamaican reggae performers dominated its 2014 list of the 15 reggae best-sellers as well. Only four Jamaicans were included in the top 15: Ziggy Marley, Chronixx, Sean Paul, and Maxi Priest.
LEGENDARY MARLEY ALBUM MARKS 50 YEARS—01/05/15
The album “Legend” released by Bob Marley and the Wailers turned 50 in 2014. In recognition of the anniversary, the Universal Music Group is releasing a definitive and remastered edition of the recording. The new edition includes a double vinyl set and a CD/Blu-ray audio set containing the studio version of “No Woman No Cry” and previously unknown versions of two other tunes. “Legend” was first released on vinyl in 1984 and has sold 25 million copies around the world.
JAMAICAN ARTIST PETER DEAN RICKARDS DIES—01/06/15
Peter Dean Rickards, noted Jamaican photographer, cinematographer and director, died on December 31, 2014. The artist had been suffering from cancer for some time. He was known for being ahead of time for his unique view of the world. Rickard has been characterized as the “consummate creative” and “edgy” and “off the wall”. During his illness he turned to social media to discuss his personal thoughts and his art.
LUCIANO SET FOR SHOW IN MALAWI IN MARCH—01/07/15
The Jamaican reggae artiste Luciano canceled a scheduled trip to Malawi in October 2014 due to fears of Ebola in West Africa, but he is now set to perform in Malawi at the end of March 2015. Luciano will perform courtesy of Born African Productions.
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