Melissa Steel | Kisses For Breakfast

The UK has a new artist that is sure to get everyone dancing this summer. Her name is Melissa Steel and she hails from Bradford. Her debut single is called "Kisses For Breakfast" and features top Dancehall artist Popcaan which was produced by UK's very own Wunda. It is a very fun dancehall pop song, which is being released just in time for the summer.

The music video was filmed in Jamaica and Melissa explains that, “The song has a summer, island feel to it which is pretty much why we envisioned Jamaica as the perfect place to shoot the video. I literally had the time of my life shooting it. I had a blast!”

Melissa is currently working on her debut album with producers Kz, Bless Beats and Jamaican producer Baby G. You can buy her debut single when it is released on 14 July 2014. In the meantime check out the music video for the single below.

Samantha J| Jamaica's Latest Crossover Act

Samantha J is a new artist from Jamaica. She was born in Kingston but  has lived in the parish of St. Anne. Samantha has garnered international success with her answer back to the infamous track "Tight Up Skirt" by Dancehall artist Red Rat. Samantha's song uses homegrown Jamaican talent to bring it alive including popular dancehall artist and songwriter Alaine.

Whilst Samantha J whose real surname is Gonsalves started off as a model for Si Mi Ya Agency she has made a smooth transition into the music industry. She is said to have been doing alright as a model and now her music career has started off on the right foot. The video for Tight Skirt has over 2 million views on youtube and has proved a popular hit in the Caribbean and America. Classic and modern dancehall dance moves such as the willy bounce to the one drop all feature against a colourful and lively backdrop. It is a very fun and vibrant music video.

I asked a few people what they thought of Jamaica's new musical talent and they all agreed that she reminded them of Bajan singer Rihanna. Though based on her next single  Hot Gyal, which just has the audio video up she may just stick closer to her roots and give a nice mix of Dancehall Pop fusion. As a Caribbean artist the comparisons will come with those who came before but the music and the personality will stand on its own merit.

Samantha has just signed a major record deal with Columbia records so I imagine we will hear quite a lot more from the teen singer in the future. Have you heard of Samantha J before? Share with us your thoughts. Check out the video for Tight Skirt below.

Lucas DiPasquale Covers PopCaan

My friend sent me this video to look at of Lucas DiPasquale who hails from Canada. He has done a really good and impressive acoustic cover of Reggae Dancehall artist Popcaan's songs. The feedback has been good too on his video. So good that he has been featured in the Jamaican Gleaner.

Vybz Kartel - Guilty

The verdict is in Dancehall Reggae artist Vybz Kartel aka Adidja Palmer has been found guilty of murder along with his co-accused. Throughout the trial text and blackberry messages were retrieved and read out which pointed to one of the most heinous crimes being committed. Although a body has never been found, the evidence suggested the body was disposed of as a way to cover up the truth.

Kartel's loyal fans have been demonstrating and chanting free"World Boss". Since the verdict was announced many have been divided over the verdict. Some have argued that the justice system is messed up. However many argue that finally they can see the justice system working the way it should be and that fame and fortune is not being held above justice. What are your thoughts?

Mr Vegas Black and Proud

Well anyone who follows Dancehall music knew this was on its way. Vybz Kartel appearing lately in many shades lighter than what he was when he emerged as an artist worth a listen. He is very candid about his skin bleaching and compares it to sun tanning. Though he may have a point the effects are not the same and both detrimental health. Plus one has a far more negative message considering the history of the people.

In true form Dancehall artists have been making songs either in support or against this. Mr Vegas latest offering is pretty much to the point, no mincing words. Black and Proud. Like James Brown many years before him, Mr Vegas is keen to let you know that he is Black and proud and loves the skin he is in. So do I.

Beenie Man - Time of my life

I am always skeptical when people take a classic such as the anthem to Dirty Dancing , Time of my Life. The Black Eye Peas did a cover sample which at first I did not like, but it grew on me. Now I am hearing popular Dancehall Reggae DJ Beenie Man has his own version too. Beenie Man who has reconciled his relationship with his wife who is also a Dancehall artist has infused lyrics of love for his wife. I actually love this Beenie man and friends riddim. This song is so lovely.

R.I.P. Gregory Isaacs

The legendary Reggae singer Gregory Isaacs (19 July 1951- 25 October 2010) has passed away. He had ben battling lung cancer for sometime. During his career he had released 100s of albums. One of his most famous songs was Night Nurse which is still popular today.

Friday Feeling - G Whizz Life

I am hoping to chill out this Friday. This song is bubbly and chilled out at the same time. Perfect for that Friday feeling. Enjoy!

Friday Feeling – Reggae culture mix 1

I absolutely love these songs. I hope you enjoy your weekend!!