Reggae History 70s-80s by Donald Spence


Reggae History 70s to early 80s

The Reggae beat has been through many stages since its formulation in Jamaica in the early 1960s. It began with the Ska beat which derives from a strong influence of rhythm & blues, and then Rocksteady, before reaching it's worldwide appeal as Reggae during the Seventies to early Eighties and producing such artist's as: Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Junior Delgado, Burning Spear, Third World, Pat Kelly, Matumbi, Black Uhuru, Black Roots, Big Youth, The Mighty Diamonds, One Blood, Junior English, Bunny Wailer, Prince Lincoln , Pablo Gad, Aswad, Steel Pulse, Carol Thompson, Louisa Marks, Janet Kay, Sister Love, and many more big name Reggae performers. We must remember that Bob Marley was the fore runner for all the above mentioned artist's. The 12" 45rpm vinyl record was first introduced during this period of reggae history, and toasting (an early form of rapping) was a also a seventies invention. It was started by Sound System DJs at dances to futher entertain their audiences and became so popular that many artist's began adding toasting to their records to make their tunes unique. The Reggae beat also became faster and more sophisticated musically, to keep up with the new sound coming in from the USA called Funk which used the aid of the new electronic musical instruments and included the famous syndrome used on many a tune. Meanwhile artist's and musicians living in the UK had a hard time establishing a foot hold in the Reggae market due to Jamaica's dominance. Up to now Reggae did not have a romantic side, and it was felt that the lovers amongst us should be catered for, so Lover's rock was born right here in the U.K, showing a softer side to this wonderful music. Lovers rock also covered many of the popular pop songs in the UK charts and made cover versions almost the norm. Even the vinyl records suddenly changed colour from their usual black, to green, white, yellow, blue, multi and many others in between. Roots music, which had a heavy Reggae bass line and lyrics to match, really captured the mood of what life is like living in the ghetto. It also became the fore runner for another style, called Steppers, an almost dance beat that you step to. Last but not least Rockers derives mainly from taking the old Rock Steady rhythms and revamping them with a new bass line and beat. Think of it as early remixing of a slow tune into diso dance tune which is used today throughout the music industry.

You can find these tunes for sale on this site.

This period was also a very enterprising time for creating your own records labels although most of them are no longer around, but this website has many exhibits of these labels, plus many more to come, they are a rarity in their own right.


About the Author
During this period I was an avid record buyer and as a consequence I built up a vast and extensive collection , I also ran my own recording studio until the late 90s. which equiped me with a sound knowledge on the subject. http://www.reggaerevive45.com/acatalog/Reggae_History.html

Planning A Nautical Wedding Theme by Buyweddingfavorsonline.com


Above deck! Dead ahead is the wedding ceremony of the decade. Are you a sailor? Absolutely love the water? This may be the wedding theme you've been searching for. Read on for how one bride created the nautical wedding of her dreams..

Start off by sending save the date and invitations that have a nautical look and feel. Sailboats, shells, lighthouse - whatever evokes the feeling of being at the ocean.

You can hold your nautical wedding in a country club, dockside, or around a crystal blue lake. A beautiful red, white, and blue color scheme makes it easy for you to start off the planning of your wedding. No frilly white dress for you - you're a practical sort of woman. One who wants to be able to move and enjoy her wedding day. A classic empire waist wedding gown sets the tone for your elegant nautical wedding. Your beautiful A-Line cut dress with pearls and Swarovski crystals spread across the bustline accents your athletic curves. After all, you're in fantastic shape from sailing and spending long days on the water. Your light summer tan provides you with a beautiful base and you glow throughout the day naturally.

Accent your wedding dress with an elegant, yet simple classic pearl and Swarovski Crystal bridal jewelry set. Your bridesmaids look positively radiant in the shimmering dresses you've selected - the exact blue of the sea that you love so well. To finish off your bridal party's gorgeous look, select jewelry for bridesmaids in blue crystal These bridesmaid necklace sets make a great thank you gift for the support and help they've provided you in getting your day pulled together.

Your guests are having the time of their life drinking Blue Hawaiian Cocktails and nibbling on crab cakes with fruit and cheese appetizers while waiting to enter the ballroom. Your carefully selected music sets the mood for relaxing and having a good time. Think Beach Boys, Jimmy Buffet, and throw in some Bob Marley for a reggae beat your guests are sure to move to.

Your red, white and blue theme looks absolutely stunning to your guests as they enter the room designated for dinner. Each table has red, white, and blue tablecloths with alternating red, white, and blue napkins on top. Your guests are treated to a great nautical candle wedding favor at each place setting.

Your gift table also carries the red, white, and blue nautical look with your white wedding card holder sitting majestically in the center. Your stunning wedding cake has red roses cascading from the top down to the bottom layer.

The food you serve should remind guests of a trip to the beach. A great shrimp pasta dish is the perfect main course but be sure to offer a chicken pasta dish for your guests that don't eat seafood. If you prefer a buffet, the meal will be even easier. Think carving roasts and turkey breasts with various cold salads. Sprinkle seashells throughout the buffet table.

After dinner, kick off your heels and head to the dance floor. Your guests are sure to quickly follow since the music you selected makes you want to get up and dance. If you're holding your reception outdoors, this is the perfect time to launch red, white, and blue balloons to get the party rolling.

Now head off to that tropical beach for your honeymoon in delicious lingerie sure to bring a smile to your husband's face. Enjoy your honeymoon because you've certainly earned it!


About the Author
Nautical and Beach Party Favors - BuyWeddingFavorsOnline.com

Caribbean Art Brightens More Than Walls by Jennifer Smith


Arts have always been one of the most important aspects of Caribbean culture. As more and more artists from the region attract international acclaim and attention, the unique style of Caribbean painters is becoming accessible to wider and more diverse audiences.

Music and literature are, perhaps, the best-known Caribbean art forms, with famous names like musician Bob Marley and poet Derek Walcott creating works the whole world enjoys. But painting is growing as a recognized form of expression. Such colorful depictions of island life are especially popular in Cuba, Haiti, and Jamaica.

Art History

The unique sights and sounds of the Caribbean have always been an inspiration to any who experience them. The bright colors of the region's landscapes and vibrant personalities of its people are particularly important in the region. The Caribbean's art history does contain a few surprises. Both Camille Pissarro and John Audubon, famous artists, were born in the Caribbean. Although their styles are not typical of the area, they have been influential in the development of regional art.

Pissarro was born on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then at the age of 12 he moved to France. After he completed school, Pissarro returned to St. Thomas. When he moved to Paris a second time, Pissarro became very influential among the Impressionists. Similarly, John Audubon was born in Haiti and moved to France at a young age. His study of birds took off during his later move to America.

However, Europe may only lay claim to some of the influences behind Caribbean artwork. African and Latin American styles are also strongly represented. African colors and people are often the subjects of paintings, with shades of Latin American styles to influence the images.

Artistic Discovery

Fine Caribbean art can be found on many islands, but Cuban artists have been flourishing since the beginning of the 20th century. The political strife on Haiti and Cuba in particular have provided island artists the opportunity to express complex emotions and political beliefs through their paintings.

Cuba's Wilfredo Lam was one of the first Caribbean artists to gain worldwide recognition. An associate of both Picasso and Georges Braque, which added to his success, he was widely respected. The popularity of Lam quickly turned the art world's attention toward the entire region.

Fine works of art can be found on islands throughout the Caribbean, including Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. The Internet has also helped art aficionados access these unique styles by allowing people to view artists' works online without having to catch a plane or physically travel to a gallery or museum that features Caribbean artists - though many of the world's most famous galleries now have Caribbean collections.

However, fine works of art from many countries throughout the Caribbean also make popular souvenirs for those who do visit. Travelers enjoy bringing them home, and, luckily, fine arts are not included in the customs allowance for travelers returning to the United States from the Caribbean.

For anyone who craves visual art that is unique and refreshing, the beautiful works of Caribbean painters are a breath of fresh air. Artists who use the Caribbean's one-of-a-kind scenery and lifestyle as the basis for their art provide a new and creative way to view paradise.


About the Author
Jennifer Smith writes for Jamaica-Guide.info, StKitts-Guide.info, and other Segisys travel Web sites.

© 2005, Interactive Internet Websites, Inc.
Article may only be reprinted if it is not modified in any way, and if all links remain live.

How to make your dream wedding in the exotics of Jamaica
by Groshan Fabiola


Jamaica lies south of Cuba in the western half of the Caribbean. Jamaica is the perfect place for a vacation wedding or a Jamaican honeymoon. It was for several centuries under British rule and has maintained close ties with the United Kingdom since independence in 1962. Jamaica is among the most distinctive of Caribbean isles, primarily as the birthplace of Rastafarianism, which suffuses the culture, as does the music of the island's most famous native son Bob Marley.

Jamaica prides itself on being a perfect wedding and honeymoon destination. Many resorts specialize in this market. Some, such as SuperClubs and Sandals (both known for their all-inclusive, couples-only resorts) even offer free wedding packages. The all-inclusive concept was born in Jamaica and no other destination has so successfully matured and marketed the concept.

There are many all-inclusive resorts, which are run to very high standards. However, my favourite romantic retreats lie at the other end of the spectrum, in small boutique hotels offering a combination of ultra-chic ambience and intimacy that is synonymous with romance. Again, Jamaica excels, with local entrepreneur Chris Blackwell's Island Outpost group having conceived some of the most welcoming and delightful boutique hotels in the world. They draw notables from Naomi Campbell to Pierce Brosnan, but fortunately most are surprisingly affordable.

Weather wise, there are only two seasons: wet (May-Nov) and dry (Dec-April). The best time to visit is during dry season, when rainfall is at a minimum and most of the island basks in sunshine.

In summer, prolonged afternoon showers or heavy downpours are typical island wide. Several days or even weeks of unbroken rain are also possible in summer, however, especially in the northeast, although this varies year to year. Summer and fall are also hurricane season, although the chance of a hurricane actually striking the island is relatively slim.

Though rimmed by coastal plains and fine sandy beaches, Jamaica is predominantly mountainous. In the east, the Blue Mountains (known for the world-famous coffee grown here) rise to 7,402 feet. Despite its relatively small size, the isle boasts several distinct climates: the mountainous northeast, centered on the old banana-shipping port of Port Antonio, receives copious rainfall and is exceedingly lush, whereas the relatively flat south-central coast, centered on Treasure Beach, lies in a rain shadow and the predominant vegetation is cactus and thorn scrub.

Jamaica is remarkably well developed in terms of activities. Visitors can choose from jet skiing, scuba diving, and sunset boat trips to mountain biking, crocodile safaris, and horseback rides.

Flight service to Jamaica which is well served by both scheduled and charter service varies according to season, although there is daily service from throughout Canada and the USA year-round. The best airfare deals are off-season, in summer.


About the Author
For more resources about Jamaica Wedding or even about Negril Wedding and of course, about Jamaican Wedding please review these links.

How to make your dream wedding in the exotics of Jamaica
by Groshan Fabiola


Jamaica lies south of Cuba in the western half of the Caribbean. Jamaica is the perfect place for a vacation wedding or a Jamaican honeymoon. It was for several centuries under British rule and has maintained close ties with the United Kingdom since independence in 1962. Jamaica is among the most distinctive of Caribbean isles, primarily as the birthplace of Rastafarianism, which suffuses the culture, as does the music of the island's most famous native son Bob Marley.

Jamaica prides itself on being a perfect wedding and honeymoon destination. Many resorts specialize in this market. Some, such as SuperClubs and Sandals (both known for their all-inclusive, couples-only resorts) even offer free wedding packages. The all-inclusive concept was born in Jamaica and no other destination has so successfully matured and marketed the concept.

There are many all-inclusive resorts, which are run to very high standards. However, my favourite romantic retreats lie at the other end of the spectrum, in small boutique hotels offering a combination of ultra-chic ambience and intimacy that is synonymous with romance. Again, Jamaica excels, with local entrepreneur Chris Blackwell's Island Outpost group having conceived some of the most welcoming and delightful boutique hotels in the world. They draw notables from Naomi Campbell to Pierce Brosnan, but fortunately most are surprisingly affordable.

Weather wise, there are only two seasons: wet (May-Nov) and dry (Dec-April). The best time to visit is during dry season, when rainfall is at a minimum and most of the island basks in sunshine.

In summer, prolonged afternoon showers or heavy downpours are typical island wide. Several days or even weeks of unbroken rain are also possible in summer, however, especially in the northeast, although this varies year to year. Summer and fall are also hurricane season, although the chance of a hurricane actually striking the island is relatively slim.

Though rimmed by coastal plains and fine sandy beaches, Jamaica is predominantly mountainous. In the east, the Blue Mountains (known for the world-famous coffee grown here) rise to 7,402 feet. Despite its relatively small size, the isle boasts several distinct climates: the mountainous northeast, centered on the old banana-shipping port of Port Antonio, receives copious rainfall and is exceedingly lush, whereas the relatively flat south-central coast, centered on Treasure Beach, lies in a rain shadow and the predominant vegetation is cactus and thorn scrub.

Jamaica is remarkably well developed in terms of activities. Visitors can choose from jet skiing, scuba diving, and sunset boat trips to mountain biking, crocodile safaris, and horseback rides.

Flight service to Jamaica which is well served by both scheduled and charter service varies according to season, although there is daily service from throughout Canada and the USA year-round. The best airfare deals are off-season, in summer.


About the Author
For more resources about Jamaica Wedding or even about Negril Wedding and of course, about Jamaican Wedding please review these links.

Universal Orlando from A to Z
by Ryan Wiseman


With two amazing theme parks - Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure - as well as the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex and three luxurious hotels - Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort - Universal Orlando definitely has something for everyone. Below are just a few of the Universal Orlando rides, attractions, restaurants, specialty shops and annual events that you can discover and explore during your vacation getaway to Universal Orlando . . .

Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: A one-of-a-kind indoor thrill ride at Marvel Super Hero Island in Universal's Islands of Adventure that combines live action and state-of-the-art special effects.

Bob Marley Reggae Fest: A celebration of the music of legendary Reggae singer Bob Marley at Universal CityWalk that features lively performances from some of today's top Reggae superstars.

CityWalk: A 30-acre entertainment complex at the entrance to Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios that features a variety of themed restaurants such as Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and Hard Rock Café, as well as specialty shops and Universal Cineplex.

Dueling Dragons: The world's first inverted, dueling roller coasters (Fire Dragon and Ice Dragon) at The Lost Continent in Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Earthquake - The Big One: An indoor thrill ride at San Franciso/Amity in Universal Studios that allows you to experience an earth-shattering quake that measures 8.3 on the Richter Scale!

Fievel's Playground: A themed play area at Woody Woodpecker's KidZone in Universal Studios that is based on the classic animated adventure, An American Tail.

Grinchmas at Universal Studios: An annual holiday celebration at Seuss Landing in Universal's Islands of Adventure that features a tree-lighting ceremony, Whoville Whobilation musical show and more.

Halloween Horror Nights: An immensely popular annual fright fest held at both Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Islands of Adventure: One of Universal Orlando's two world-class theme parks that features five uniquely themed islands - Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, Marvel Super Hero Island, Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon.

Jurassic Park River Adventure: A water-based ride at Jurassic Park in Universal's Islands of Adventure that features animatronic dinosaurs, a "Raptor Containment Area" and 85-foot plunge into a splash pool.

Kingpin's Arcade: An immense video-game arcade that lies next to Dr. Doom's Fearfall at Marvel Super Hero Island in Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Lost Continent: One of the five "islands" at Universal's Islands of Adventure that features such attractions as Dueling Dragons, Poseidon's Fury, The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad and The Flying Unicorn.

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios: The largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans with live concerts, colorful parades, delicious cuisine, plenty of beads and much more.

New York: One of six themed areas at Universal Studios that features Twister . . . Ride It Out, Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride and The Blues Brothers.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish: An aerial adventure that soars you high over Seuss Landing in Universal's Islands of Adventure aboard Dr. Seuss-inspired, fish-shaped vehicles.

Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges: A thrilling whitewater rafting adventure at Toon Lagoon in Universal's Islands of Adventure that winds its way around the Me Ship, The Olive play area.

Quint's Surf Shack: A themed specialty store located in the San Francisco/Amity area of Universal Studios.

Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride: An incredible, indoor "psychological" thrill ride that features an army of "warrior mummies" at the New York area of Universal Studios.

Shrek 4-D: A thrilling, state-of-the-art 4-D adventure that takes you along with Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona on a new adventure as they battle the evil ghost of Lord Farquaad.

Terminator 2: 3-D: An amazing indoor attraction at the Hollywood area of Universal Studios that combines live action, state-of-the-art 3-D technology and incredible special effects.

Universal Studios: One of Universal Orlando's two world-class theme parks and known as the "No. 1 movie studio theme park in the world."

Velvet Sessions: An award-winning rock 'n' roll cocktail party held at Velvet Bar in the Hard Rock Hotel that features live music from some of today's hottest bands.

Woody Woodpecker's KidZone: One of six themed areas at Universal Studios and home to E.T. Adventure, A Day in the Park with Barney, Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster and Animal Actors on Location.

X (a.k.a. Destination X): An annual pro wrestling pay-per-view event from Total Nonstop Wrestling (TNA) that is scheduled to be taped at the Universal Studios' IMPACT! Zone soundstage on March 11, 2007.

Yertle the Turtle: A character from one of Dr. Seuss' famous children's books and resident of Seuss Landing at Universal's Islands of Adventures.

Zydeco Hellraisers: One of the talented New Orleans bands scheduled to appear at Mardi Gras at Universal Studios, which takes place nearly every Saturday night until mid-April.


About the Author
Orlando, Florida Guide, the best guide to Orlando, offers discount Universal Orlando tickets, discount Disney World tickets and discount SeaWorld Orlando tickets, as well as discount Orlando hotels and individually tailored Orlando vacation packages.


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Let's Dread Together and Feel Alright
by Kristen Lem


Dreadlocks are a great way to completely change your look and make a statement with your hair. Its Rastafarian origins are linked as far back as the biblical Samson who wore his hair in dreadlocks and lost his unsurpassed strength when Delilah cut off his seven locks. Contrary to the belief that dreads are always tied to drugs, they are also a symbol of non-violence and non-conformity, and worn as a heavy spiritual statement.

If you've decided you want to try this bold and unique hair style, there are many ways to go about it. After much research and mellow conversation, I've found the most versatile and natural method is one called "backcombing." This technique is all natural and will work on virtually any hair type that is 3 inches or longer. Also, hair will look like dreads once completed, compared to the "neglect" method which takes at least 10" of hair and 3 years. Be warned, this is a labor intensive process and will take several hours - nothing a couple of good friends and a Bob Marley CD can't handle!

Backcombing

1. Start with hair that is clean and completely residue free. Use a purifying shampoo such as the Back to Basics Cleanse Clarifying Citrus Sage. Do not use a conditioner. Make sure hair is completely dry before starting the backcombing process.

2. Section the hair into 1"-2" squares - these will make round dreads. Temporarily secure the sections with a rubber band.

3. Start close to the scalp (not more than 1" away) and use a dread comb to comb the hair towards the scalp until the hair starts to pack up at the roots. Do not twist the hair, but rather roll the hair between your fingers as you are backcombing.

4. Continue working towards the end of the hair, keeping the dread as tight as possible. Secure the end with a rubber band.

5. Secure the dread at the scalp with another rubber band to keep it tight at its base. These rubber bands can be cut later once the dreads have matured.

6. When all the hair has been completed apply a petroleum-free dread wax to each dread.

Your dreadlocks should be in full affect once the process is done, however they will begin to tighten and smooth as they mature. With proper maintenance, full maturity can be reached in as little as 3-4 months. Be sure to continue using dread wax that does not contain petroleum and a purifying dread shampoo.

For difficult dreads, keep a rubber band on the scalp end. Also try rubbing the root of the dread in a clock wise direction against the scalp to help it lock up.


About the Author
Kristen is a Hair and Beauty Product Writer and Specialist for popular brands including FHI, Crede, Yuko System, Paul Mitchell, Redken, ISH Ionic Rescue, Alterna and more