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HOT 97 ON DA REGGAE TIP 2012 WITH MAVADO, ELEPHANT MAN, BABY CHAM, KONSHENS, ALISON HINDS & MORE
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Every year the HOT 97 family celebrates the diverse music and culture that continues to emerge from ...Every year the HOT 97 family celebrates the diverse music and culture that continues to emerge from the Caribbean islands. On Da Reggae Tip brings the biggest and brightest reggae and dancehall artists to New York City just before the annual Labor Day parade. The highly anticipated show serves as the kick-off to the festivities for many islanders and Americans alike. Colorful flags waved in the air as concert-goers enjoyed acts like Baby Cham, Konshens, Christopher Martin, Allison Hinds, Mavado, Elephant Man and more. Thanks to our sponsors Nutrament and OOVOO, we were able to hook a lucky winner up with a meet and greet with Mavado and Alison Hinds. If you missed the show, check out the videos below!
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Vegas, Alison Hinds, 'Bruk It Down' on Vevo
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Mr Vegas's Bruk It Down remix is now on VEVO, the number one YouTube site in the United States. The ...Mr Vegas's Bruk It Down remix is now on VEVO, the number one YouTube site in the United States. The remix features soca queen Alison Hinds and the video displays scenes from Trinidad, Barbados, Jamaica and New York.
Jamaica's radio disc jock DJ Bambino also made a cameo appearance in the video's intro, speaking in classic patois language.
Mr Vegas also kept the video authentic by employing the skills of Jamaica's dance crew, Dance Xpressionz who gave a vivid display of the Bruck It Down move.
The scene with Alison Hinds was shot in Barbados and she attempted the dance move on a beach with the sea lingering in the background and Mr Vegas by her side.
The video for Bruck It Down remix was directed Jay Will, and according to the director, the music video shows personal translations of the popular dance move.
"The video features a variety of personal versions of the dance style. We show different women from different walks of life all sharing a common ground with this infectious dance tune," he said.
Alison Hinds spoke highly of Mr Vegas and expressed that the working process was fun. "I thoroughly enjoyed working with Mr Vegas on the song and the video shoot. He is so much fun and had me laughing the whole time we were filming. I love to laugh so that just made the shoot so much more fun. I know we will work together again in the not so distant future and I eagerly look forward to that time," Hinds said.
Bruk It Down is included on Mr Vegas' new double disc album, Sweet Jamaica (MV Music), released on May 29 in tribute to Jamaica celebrating 50 years of Independence this year.
Bruk It Down made the top of the Billboard Reggae singles chart as well as reaching No.1 in Jamaica, BBC 1Xtra, Choice FM in the UK, Trace TV/Trace FM based in France and MTV Base Africa.
Mr Vegas' Sweet Jamaica album also propelled to No.34 on Complex Magazine's 'Top 50 Albums of 2012 and into the top 10 on Billboard's Reggae album chart.
Mr Vegas' Sweet Jamaica European 2012 Tour starts this month, and there is a Canadian Back-to-School Tour set for September and a US band tour in the fall.
The VEVO music video website was launched in December 2009 and the same month became the No.1 visited site in the United States.
There are only a few Jamaican artistes who own a VEVO account, among them Buju Banton, Jah Cure, Sean Paul, Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Wayne Marshall, Tami Chynn and Brick and Lace.
The original Bruck It Down video has over seven million views and the VEVO remix video currently has over 20,000 views since its upload.
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REVIEW: Alison Hinds and Thandiswa Mazwai deliver stellar performances at Pan Jazz 2012!
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On June 16th, Abstract Entertainment presented Pan Jazz ™2012's production of Music – The Original S...On June 16th, Abstract Entertainment presented Pan Jazz ™2012's production of Music – The Original Social Media which took place at the Frederick P. Rose Hall at Jazz at Lincoln Center, in New York City.
The 8th annual highly anticipated event featured an all star ensemble of some of the Caribbean and the world’s greatest musicians, with two stellar headliners, Africa’s very own Thandiswa Mazwai and Bajan Soca Queen, Alison Hinds.
This year’s Pan Jazz ™was conceptualized by Darryl Ramsey, who solidified that, music is indeed one of the original forms of social media.
Jazz aficionados were pleased to hear the musical arrangements by the all star band, under the directorship of trumpeter, Etienne Charles and featuring Victor Provost and Leon Foster Thomas on the steelpans, world famous Ronald “Boo” Hinskon on guitar, Jacques Schwarz-Bart on the sax, Damon DueWhite on drums, Etienne Stadwick from Suriname, with first time appearance by South African Bassist Bakithi Kumalo and Mino Cinelo.
The all -star musical team aroused the crowd with jazz renditions of vintage calypso and Caribbean favorites as well as their modified versions of classical pieces.
Thandiswa took concert-goers on a musical pilgrimage to the motherland. The sounds of the African drum, a source not only for entertainment, but a vessel used as a communicative tool. With the rhythmic beats of the drum fused with the jazz elements of the steelpan and classical instruments, Thandiswa delivered an intriguingly arousing performance. With her seemingly primal screams, reminiscent to mating calls, the voluptuous mohawked beauty, delivered her sound over intoxicating melodies coupled with the infectious movement of her waistline, to sensual reggae beats accompanied by her intermittent foot stomping.
Thandiswa surely is Miramba Mkeme reincarnate.
During her flawless performance, she took the time to acknowledge Youth Day, as June 16th marked the anniversary and remembrance Soweto’s student-led uprising comprising of 20,000 students back in 1976.
More photos of Pan Jazz 2012 can be found HERE.
Alison Hinds sure knows how to captivate a crowd. As one of the most popular Caribbean performers, the Soca Queen chose an eclectic and electric mixture of her music to serenade those in attendance. The Bajan artiste started her set with an acoustic version of her hit song, “Roll It Gal,” adorned in a floor length sequined Jewel Shannon gown.
The bodacious and curvaceous star turned it up a notch, tearing apart her detachable gown to reveal an eye-popping mini and then later on, changing again, into a sliver, bejeweled short Zena Soca-warrior-princess number!
Alison’s repertoire included some of her biggest hits to an equally engaging crowd, who were literally moved to their feet.
Abstract Entertainment dedicated Pan Jazz 2012 to the memory of the legendary Ralph MacDonald. The Grammy-award winning percussionist, producer and songwriter of hits such as “Where Is The Love” and “Just The Two of Us” passed away December 2011.
The lovely engagement was hosted by Former Miss Universe and current Pan Jazz™ Ambassador, Wendy Fitzwilliam, who did an outstanding job with her duties and looked lovely during her two wardrobe changes.
Who else could’ve delivered a show based on sending a message – the origins of social media, than two phenomenal women (with help of dynamic men). For we all know women can surely deliver a message and create an impact!
Thandiswa and Alison, we heard you loud and clear!
Great job divas!
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Shaggy, Alison Hinds, Tarrus Riley shine at JazzReggae Fest
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Midway through her explosive set of modern soca music during the second day of the JazzReggae Festiv...Midway through her explosive set of modern soca music during the second day of the JazzReggae Festival at UCLA on Monday, singer Alison Hinds, her hair twisted in short purple dreadlocks and wearing spangled black short-shorts and matching top, took an informal census of the thousands dancing and picnicking before her.
How many Jamaicans are here today?” she wondered, and a big burst of applause rang out. “Who’s from Barbados?” -- another pocket of applause, similar in volume to when she then asked about the Trinidadians and Dominicans. When she polled for West Indians, a huge swath of the audience cheered. Caribbean currents are evidently strong in Los Angeles.
Hinds, the self-proclaimed “Queen of Soca” -- a blend of American soul ("so") and Caribbean calypso ("ca") -- was one of the highlights of Day 2 of the UCLA-student-organized fest, and typified the day’s tone by merging the many rhythm-heavy sounds of the West Indies into one electrifying whole. She and the rest of the roster of the annual reggae day, part of a festival now in its 26th year, delivered an afternoon of Caribbean party sounds, of romance and worship music ranging from soca to reggaeton to roots reggae, lovers rock and beyond; much of it mixed into a blend that island-hopped to a new kind of fusion. (Sunday’s American-heavy bill featured, among others, the Roots, Booker T and the MGs and Gary Clark Jr.)
PHOTOS: JazzReggae Festival at UCLA
Headliner Shaggy, born in Kingston, Jamaica, but relocated to Brooklyn, mutter-rapped in his thick patois over jumbo reggaeton beats -- at least when he wasn’t wooing the ladies with some mutter-crooning; singer Tarrus Riley delivered an updated, inspired variation of smooth roots reggae, one of the building blocks of all of the day’s performances. Laid back Bermudian American (born in New Orleans) Collie Buddz brought a rich, smooth blend of reggaeton and R and B to the stage, and former Black Uhuru singer Don Carlos offered classics from throughout his repertoire.
But, then, fusion is endemic to the Caribbean. Within both the oft-frantic soca dance beats and the smoother reggae music you could hear the fundamental Calypso rhythms birthed in Trinidad and Tobago nearly two centuries ago when French and British colonists immigrated with their slaves to the region. But you can also hear the influence of American R and B and soul music, and hip-hop, and Miami bass, and Colombian cumbia.
But mostly, you can feel the island culture and the openness that creates new styles. With the sun bearing down on the unprotected intramural field in the middle of UCLA's campus, each artist delivered tight, hit-laden 50 minute sets.
After early performances by Cris Cab and Kes the Band, Black Uhuru's Carlos, a devout Rastafarian whose songs of praise honored Jah and love, offered music from throughout his career both as a member of Black Uhuru and as a solo artist. On "Little Girl," about a young girl in love with Rastas (and their dreadlocks) despite her parents' protestations, he tackled lust and worship simultaneously, and on "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," he sang of the discrimination suffered among Rastafarians.
Hinds, of Barbados, rose as a soca artist with the group Square One, whose work in the 1980s and '90s hit throughout the Caribbean and gave rise to the singer's moniker as the Queen of Soca. She and her band expanded that title by adding many different accents. On her version of Square One's hit "Roll It Gal," she fused reggae, soca and R and B to create a message of female empowerment.
After a decent if unmemorable set by Bermudian American dance hall singer Collie Buddz, reggae vocalist Tarrus Riley, the son of early Jamaican rock steady vocalist Jimmy Riley, showcased the depth and enduring vibrancy of roots reggae. The classic Kingston sound of the 1970s, whose best known practitioner, Bob Marley, brought the peaceful, easy vibe of reggae to the world, rose to become one of the most influenti
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Queen of Soca, Alison Hinds to lend her signature vibe to the 26th annual JazzReggae Festival on Monday, May 28th at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
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Miami, Fl - Philanthropist and Soca music pioneer, Alison Hinds, is set to deliver another high ener...Miami, Fl - Philanthropist and Soca music pioneer, Alison Hinds, is set to deliver another high energy live performance at the 26th annual JazzReggae Festival on Monday, May 28th, in Los Angeles, California. The JazzReggae Festival has evolved into the largest student run music festival on the campus of University of California, Los Angeles. Taking place in the intramural field at UCLA, the JazzReggae Festival’s outdoor scene will facilitate the limitlessness of the smooth sounds of jazz as well as the rhythmic beats of reggae. Hinds adds to this musical recipe with her Caribbean soca flavor.
Bearing the name the Queen of Soca, Hinds is known for her irresistible, hook-laden songs and her crowd rocking performances. She is set to perform on the 2nd day of the two- day music festival at UCLA. Hits like “Roll it Gal” featured on her solo debut album Queen of Soca has placed Hinds under the global eye. Hinds has done several collaborations including “Can’t Let my Luv Go,” featuring Shaggy who is also performing at the JazzReggae Fest.
This year’s lineup of entertainers is set to feature soulful jazz, original hip-hop, vibrant soca, and jammin’ reggae. Live performances include The Roots, Booker T. Jones, Gary Clark Jr., Thundercat, Seluh Sue, Sonnymoon on Jam Day, May 27th and Shaggy, Tarrus Riley, Collie Buddz, Alison Hinds, Don Carlos, Cris Cab on Reggae Day, May 28th. The JazzReggae Fest will also host a myriad of vendors to supply food, drinks, art and clothing that highlight the jazz and reggae culture.
"I am very happy to have been chosen to be one of the acts for JazzReggae Festival. It's a honor to be apart of this prestigious show. I'm looking forward to this experience & also meeting some of the other acts. This performance is special to me because gives me the chance to expose my music & culture to a new audience" says Alison Hinds.
The Alison Hinds Wonderland Foundation launched in March 2012 in Hinds’ homeland Barbados. The Foundation is created for the empowerment of women. The mission of the foundation is to help improve the quality of life for girls, women and families worldwide. Although, the Foundation is primarily in Barbados, the mission of the the project is to ensure that the message of the foundation is heard and felt globally to encourage women empowerment everywhere.
For additional information : Kaceion Hudson, kaceion.hudson@gmail.com or visit www.jazzreggaefest.com
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Soca Diva Alison Hinds launches Women Foundation!
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Known as a soca queen and revered because of her empowering lyrics, stage prowess and strong feminin...Known as a soca queen and revered because of her empowering lyrics, stage prowess and strong feminine personality, Alison Hinds has taken it up a notch by forming her own women’s organization, The Alison Hinds Wonderland Foundation.
The Alison Hinds Wonderland Foundation’s mission is “to serve as a catalyst for transformational human development and community change by supporting programs and services that improve the quality of life for girls, women, and families worldwide.”
Scheduled to be launched this Saturday, March 10, in Barbados at the “Ordinary Women Extraordinary Lives,” Alison’s new foundation will have its roots in the Caribbean, however, the vision of the veteran entertainer is that the initiative will be used to advocate for families and communities globally ensuring equal access to opportunities and quality of life resources.
The focal areas identified are: Personal and Leadership Development for Girls and Women; Entrepreneurship for Girls and Women; Education and Career Development for Girls and Women; Health and Wellness Issues; Financial Literacy for Girls and Women; Eradication of Domestic Violence; Family Strengthening.
Using her talents and experience, Hinds and her supporters intend to spread the message about the Foundation and its focus through special events, topical programmes, benefit concerts, commemorative events, presentations, strategic partnering with global human development organizations, and publishing, special edition Wonderland Music.
Congrats Alison on a great initiative!
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Alison Hinds Rocks The House At SOB’s In New York
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Alison Hinds performed at SOB in New York on February 25 to a jubilant crowd, who at times took over...Alison Hinds performed at SOB in New York on February 25 to a jubilant crowd, who at times took over the singing leaving the beauty blushing at the love she was receiving.
Dressed in a shimmery number, she belted some of her well known hits including Shaloma, Roll It, Carnival Baby and Bazodee among others. Check out her live performance below!
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Soca Music Star Alison Hinds On Miami Carnival
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World Desk Editor John Yearwood chats with Soca music star Alison Hinds about what to look for at th...World Desk Editor John Yearwood chats with Soca music star Alison Hinds about what to look for at this year's Carnival Miami, and where to catch her performing.
Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/videos/?media_id=114819881#storylink=misearch#ixzz1aaB8xARO
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This is it, Carnival time in Miami
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With a sexier look and a new hairstyle, Barbadian singer Alison Hinds steps in front the spotlight, ...With a sexier look and a new hairstyle, Barbadian singer Alison Hinds steps in front the spotlight, throws her hands in the air to the fast-paced party beat and winds her famous waistline.
For the past days, dozens of Caribbean artists like Hinds have been rolling into South Florida, revving up fans for Miami Broward One Carnival, the last big North American fete on the circuit.
“Miami Carnival is right up there with all of the other carnivals,’’ said Hinds, the self-proclaim “Soca Queen,” who returns to Miami after a two-year absence to headline Saturday’s International Soca Fest at Sun Life Stadium. “The thing about Miami is the weather lends itself to doing so much stuff. Night time fetes, daytime pool parties, all-inclusive and big limes.’’
In carnival speak, to lime is to chill. And no lime is complete without soca — the fast-paced party offspring of calypso that has come to define carnival, the colorful showcase of Caribbean culture and debauchery that kicks off each year in Trinidad and Tobago just before Lent and ends each Columbus Day weekend in Miami. The carnival parade, featuring 20 masquerade bands, begins at noon Sunday at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens.
“Carnival is all about fun,’’ said Leighton Paul, a popular local DJ known as Walshy Fire. “We are in the streets, we are in the clubs.’’
For years, South Florida carnival lovers were a divided crowd with organizers offering up competing events on the same Sunday. Three years ago, organizers in Broward and Miami-Dade County came together. And while good for Caribbean unity on the big day, it also had another side effect.
“People used to wait for the last minute to buy a ticket and all the events would suffer,’’ Paul said. “Now, it’s like everybody is doing an event. The number of parties seemed to have quadrupled.’’
One carnival promoter said he has counted more than 40 parties between Wednesday, when the “week’’ officially launched, and Tuesday, the day after it is supposed to officially end.
Case in point, said Paul, is Red Eye. The party is popular among New Yorkers, and this year South Florida promoters are offering three Red Eye parties.
“They will all each have their own artists,’’ he said.
And while parties may be competing for crowds, one thing is clear: soca artists, who have longed struggled to win popularity beyond the carnival and on major radio airwaves, are getting more work as their demand increases. An artist like Trinidadian Machel Montano, who commanded $20,000 a few years ago, now gets up to $50,000 for his high-energy showcase of 27 dancers and musicians.
“The thing with our artists is because our genre of music has not made a major crossover, for soca artists, carnival is the primary venue they have for doing the live performance,’’ said Francis Ragoo, producer of Soca Fest, which is now in its 17th year.
If New York’s popular Labor Day carnival is all about the Eastern Parkway — the long stretch of asphalt where four uniformed New York City cops were caught on tape last month bumping and grinding with scantily clad dancers — then Miami, say promoters, is about the parties leading up to Sunday’s big parade.
Ragoo said Saturday’s Soca Fest will feature 10 artists and four bands, including Hinds, who has made a career trumpeting women empowerment in song and is famous for pulling a lucky guy from the crowd to demonstrate “wining,” the popular hip-gyrating movement of soca.
“They are more of a show than just a party,’’ Ragoo said about the performances.
And for some artists, like Clarence “Oungku” Edwards of Antigua’s Hot Flames band, that often mean racing from fete to fete on the same night.
“You go on stage knowing that you have 45 minutes or an hour,’ he said, adding that usually the band’s set is five hours.
This year, the band’s performances have doubled from last year.
“Miami Carnival matches any carnival right now. A lot of the focus from Labor Day in New York shifts down here, year after year,’’ he said.
And, of course, Miami’s cultural landscape is an added asset.
“You have more of a melting pot of Caribbean Culture with everybody coming together, small islands and big islands,’’ he said.
Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/10/07/2443996/this-is-it-carnival-time-in-miami.html#ixzz1aaBmYjMm
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Pulse: Interview with Alison Hinds
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Recording star Alison Hinds is the reigning Queen of Soca! The Bajan "Roll It Gal” singer joins us ...Recording star Alison Hinds is the reigning Queen of Soca! The Bajan "Roll It Gal” singer joins us on the program to talk about soca culture in the caribbean and beyond.
[This is a special preview. Watch the program on WPBT2 Sunday, October 23rd at 12:00 PM and Thursday, October 27th at 7:30 PM]
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Darling Nicky Q&A with Alison Hinds (Barbados)
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Nicky: Good Afternoon Alison! I have to say, I am truly honoured to have this chance to ask you a fe...Nicky: Good Afternoon Alison! I have to say, I am truly honoured to have this chance to ask you a few questions and bring your fans up to speed on your music and career. It isn’t everyday that I get to interview the undisputed “Queen of Soca”. How has 2011 been treating you?
Alison: 2011 has been pretty good to me so far. It started a little slow but, is picking up nicely as we speak.
Nicky: You are one of the most prominent figures in Soca and have been contributing for over 2 decades. What is your perspective on the current trends in Soca music?
Alison: I’m happy to see the various collaborations that are happening in Soca, especially with reggae artists but, we still have a long way to go. Until Soca is a recognized genre worldwide our work can never be done. We also need to embrace one another more within the genre. This “crabs in a barrel” mentality needs go because it’s going to take more than 1 or 2 artists to make a real impact.
Nicky: Originally from London, you have lived in Barbados most of your life. Along with you Rihanna is one of Barbados’ biggest musical exports. Describe the impact music plays on the Barbadian community.
Alison: I think music is essential to the Bajan way of life. As a people we love all kinds of music but, we of course have a special place for Soca and Reggae. Music helps us get through the day and especially when Crop Over is in the air, we really looked forward to the new vibes and sounds.
Nicky: Music is not an easy career choice to make, yet you joined legendary band Square One at just age 17 and were lead vocalist for an amazing 17 years. Tell us some of your fondest memories of that time in your life, and if there was anything you could have done differently, what would it have been?
Alison: My fondest memories would be the ones that the public wouldn’t have seen. How we used to hang out together and look out for one another. Crack jokes and talk sh**, lol. Lean on each other in bad times and laugh with each other when things were good. We actually still do those things and I work with Andy (Blood) and Terry (Mexican) musically up to now. I also stay in contact with all the other guys as well. They are and always will be my “big brothers”.
Nicky: Fast forward to present day – you released a studio album in 2010 entitled Caribbean Queen featuring “King and Queen” with Ritchie Spice and “Can’t Let My Luv Go” with Shaggy. Are there any projects you want us to know about for 2011?
Alison: Well I’m working on another album this year so listen out for that. I also have a few more collaborations. This time with a young artist from USVI called K-Victoria. The song is titled “Girl Power” and I think has the potential to become a serious female anthem (you know I love to rep for my ladies *smile*). I have one with a young group out of Haiti called Harmonik and that song is called “Let’s Go”. It’s a really nice Kompas song and has been doing well so far. The video for this song is done and will soon be released. I also have collaboration with Voicemail out of Jamaica called “Everybody Wave” that I really enjoyed doing, and I’m looking forward to performing all these songs with the various artists.
(There are some other things that are in the works but, I’m not ready to let those out yet.)
In addition to these of course, I’m in the studio recording new music for Crop Over! As you can tell my plate is quite full.
Nicky: Who or what have been your musical inspirations?
Alison: My musical inspiration comes from many different artists and genres. In addition to Soca and Reggae I love meringue, pop, R&B, high life, jazz, soft rock and any other music that sounds good. I’m a huge Prince fan and I love Diane Reeves who is an amazing jazz singer. There are many others too numerous to mention here so let’s just say I love music, period.
Nicky: You are such an accomplished artist in your genre. What award or recognition are you most proud of?
Alison: I’m actually proud of all of my various awards because it feels good to be recognized by your peers for the work you’re doing regardless of who they are coming from.
Nicky: Most artists have a particular song from their catalogue that has significant meaning to them. Is there a song of yours that stands out for you, and is there a story behind it?
Alison: “Faluma”, which is one of my most popular songs, definitely stands out as one of those songs. Square 1 first performed this song in Suriname for our first performance there. We asked the promoter for the most popular local song and that’s what was sent so we rehearsed it. I had to listen very carefully and try to get the phonetics since I didn’t know the language and we had it ready for the show. The show itself was at a huge gymnasium and it was packed to the rafters with people. It was also live on radio and television throughout Suriname that night for those who couldn’t be there. That show was absolutely amazing and when we played “Faluma” the crowd went crazy!!
We returned to Barbados after that week-long trip and started performing the song at our various club gigs to see what the response would be. Well our fans that followed us everywhere began to like it and suggested to us that we record it. We initially had no plans of doing that even though we were doing our next album at the time. After the fans kept asking for it we decided to record it. We flew in the original group that sang the song to make sure that my pronunciation was correct and that we did the reproduction well and for those who may not know, the intro at the beginning of “Faluma” is the actual live recording from that night in Suriname. Those screaming fans are the real thing not simulated *smile*.
There you have it, the story of “Faluma” as I remember it.
(Please click on any of the links above to see the momentous performance of “Faluma” for the first time in its country of origin, Suriname).
Nicky: If you could collaborate on a record with anyone in the world, in any category of music, with who would it be?
Alison: I would really love to something with Pink. I love her vibe and her voice. Also my girl Rihanna of course!!! She is a mega super star, so talented and does her own thing. No follower is she. Prince is a given. If I ever had the chance to record with him I don’t know what I’d do. From the Caribbean: Tarrus Riley. Love (love!) his voice and his energy is fantastic. Those are a few (lol).
Nicky: Which songs are you listening to in heavy rotation right now?
Alison: I’ve actually been listening to Kes the Band’s album from last year “On in 5”. Kes is so versatile and has a great voice and this album shows that off.
Nicky: Regardless of what field of work we are in, there are always aspects we find challenging. What are your biggest “pet peeves”?
Alison: The disrespect that sometimes happens from some promoters is definitely one. For many soca artists, specifically the ones who have made a name for themselves over the years, this isn’t a hobby, it’s our career. How we pay our bills and support our families. To be disrespected in terms of your fee, what standard your accommodations should be or any other aspect of your needs is uncalled for. When you go to the doctor and he/she tells you what the fee is, you don’t try to haggle over it, you pay it or you don’t. We are willing to negotiate but, when they are trying to take advantage that’s another matter.
Nicky: Where can people keep up to date with your music if they want to hear more of you?
Alison: I have a series of pages online. My MYSPACE page is still very active and my new music is posted there as well as my touring schedule. You can also check out my website www.alisonhinds.com. I also have a few Facebook pages including fan pages and of course I’m on Twitter, just search my name @alisonhinds. I tweet quite often and have about 10 000 followers to date but, always looking for more! The more the merrier.
Nicky: We follow each other on Twitter, and I absolutely adore your candid tweets. How has the evolution of Social media changed the landscape of fan interaction and promotion, in your opinion?
Alison: I love the fact that it’s so immediate and that it keeps you in contact with your fans in a way that you definitely couldn’t before. I have followers from all over the world on Twitter and they are quite active too, whatever their time zone. Whatever you want your fans to know you can post at anytime without having to wait on a flyers, etc. Also email and BB blasts are very popular.
Nicky: I saw that you traded in your famous locks for a more natural hair style recently. Tell us what inspired the change (which is beautiful by the way, I saw the photo).
Alison: I really needed a change. I’d been thinking about it for a couple of months and spoke to my cosmetologist/hair stylist/masseuse and long time friend Adzil Stuart. He was the one that suggested my change to Sister Locks which he is also trained to do. I thought some more about it, checked it out online and made my decision. It took 2 days but, it was absolutely worth it. I’m enjoying my short hair. In the morning all I do is finger comb and roll out…(lol). Sister Locks is also more versatile and I can style it myself.
Nicky: What is the one thing that you do that drives your husband crazy? (We all have that one annoying habit like not putting the toothpaste cap back on).
Alison: I leave my shoes lying around and it drives my husband nuts. I wear Berkies which are very comfortable and I have a few pairs but, I tend to leave them wherever I was last sitting so then I’m searching up and down for them (lol). Also I’m forgetful so you know how that goes.
Nicky: It’s truly been an honour to get to know you better and I know your fans think the world of you. Thank you for taking the time, and hoping to see you in Toronto soon!
Alison: Thank you so much for the wonderful and quite in depth interview. I hope my fans will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed doing it. *smile*
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ALISON HINDS, a true Caribbean Queen
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ALISON HINDS, a true Caribbean Queen, came to the throne thru SOCA (popular dance music of the South...ALISON HINDS, a true Caribbean Queen, came to the throne thru SOCA (popular dance music of the Southern Caribbean) that is rapidly gaining popularity among music lovers around the globe. It is a sexy music known for its infectious rhythms and spirited spicy lyrics that inspires jubilant audience participation albeit with waving hands and flags to swaying hips, all in a ritualistic celebration that exemplifies life today in the Caribbean and is synonymous with Caribbean Carnival celebrations worldwide.
Born in England, ALISON and her mom moved to Barbados when she was 11 years old. After graduating from high school ALISON joined Square One,
a Soca band made up of long time friends. Square One toured non-stop, playing everywhere from bars, hotels and eventually bigger venues throughout the Caribbean. ALISON’S first hit with Square One was 1996’s “Ragamuffin”, which won the Road March during the Barbados Carnival. The next year she repeated that victory as well as winning The Party Monarch, with “In The Meantime”; making her the first woman in Barbados to capture both titles. ALISON recorded eleven albums with the band including FULL BLOOM, which was a huge international success and featured the #1 single “Faluma”. Square One was at the peak of their popularity and so was ALISON, who was increasingly in demand also as a solo act.
Crowned the undisputed “Queen of SOCA” by fans worldwide, her powerful, emotional vocals and high-energy live shows are legendary in Caribbean music.
Alison’s musical journey has taken her throughout the Caribbean islands and the Diaspora worldwide.
She says, “More than anything, I’m hoping to expose the world to my music and for people to really appreciate and say yes to it. It is infectious, uplifting and happy but still says something and touches our lives. I also want the music to represent who I am.”
Her first solo album entitled SOCA QUEEN Is a diverse selection of Soca tunes with hot pulsating rhythm oriented anthems with a standout song “Roll It Gal” that became an international hit between 2005- 2006 and was released in North America, Europe and the Far East taking Alison’s music to new shores and making new fans all over the world enabling Alison to take her dynamic live show worldwide, touring throughout the U.S., Europe, Canada and the Caribbean. The immediate acceptance and demand confirmed ALISON’S belief that her decision was fated and what she was destined to achieve. “Nothing makes me happier as an artist to know that I am bringing joy to new fans all over the world.”
“Roll It Gal” is an energetic dance track as well as an empowering girl power anthem that shot to the top of the charts in Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean almost instantly upon its initial release in ‘05,
Alison, “When I heard the demo I said this is it. It was meant to be; I recorded it in one take! It connected like no other song I’d done before.” The message? “I’m telling women to take pride in themselves, don’t take any abuse, look after your kids, do your studies, believe in yourself and look to God. So many women have told me that the song lifts them up.”
She has won numerous awards and rave reviews everywhere she goes.
At the BMA’s in Barbados this year she won Entertainer of the Year (Female)
and Best Collaboration for “King and Queen” with Richie Spice.
At the IRWMA awards in New York, she won Best Female Vocalist (2009 and 2010) and Best Calypso / Soca Entertainer (2009) and at the 14th Annual Caribbean American Heritage Award in Washington DC, Alison Hinds was awarded for her Outstanding Contribution to Soca Music as an icon of the ’girl’s power’ movement and the most recognized female in Soca music.
She is an advocate for just causes such as AIDS awareness, Women’s rights, the Diabetes foundation and has participated with them wherever possible as well as organizations for disabled and physically challenged children.
Alison recently recorded two songs with many other popular Caribbean artists in Barbados and Jamaica that are dedicated to the rescue and rebuilding of Haiti. She is traveling this weekend to Jamaica for a telethon dedicated to raising funds for Haiti.
Alison always takes timeout wherever she travels to visit schools and hospitals delivering her positive message of love and upliftment for one and all.
ALISON’S new album entitled CARIBBEAN QUEEN is a celebration created for her fans from all over the Caribbean Diaspora. The love she received from Jamaica has spawned new combinations with Richie Spice “King and Queen”,
Jah Cure “Call On Me” and Shaggy “Can’t Let My Love Go”.
There are new songs “Soca In Meh Body”, “Chocolate and Vanilla”, “Lock it On”, already proven hits that will satisfy her faithful Soca following as well as one from Chutney producer ‘Big Rich’ entitled “Indrani” that appeals to her East Indian audience. “Boom Boom Tonic” has a touch of creole for the French speaking Caribbean while “Believe” is a positive message of love for her fans across the globe.
“Roll It Gal”, “Togetherness” and “Faluma” her classics are also included in the album and with this mix of high energy to mid tempo and the classically soulful ballad “Island Girl”, CARIBBEAN QUEEN is an opportunity for ALISON to expand her boundaries and entertain the world with the delicious spices of the Caribbean paradise.
ALISON HINDS is poised to become a major force in the Caribbean and a vital element in the eruption of innovative urban-influenced Caribbean-based artists such as fellow-Bajan popstar Rihanna, Sean Paul, or Shaggy, who are changing the face of music worldwide.
Offers ALISON,” I see myself as a modern singer. So many genres of music influenced me and my album reflects that eclecticism.”
Come celebrate with ALISON HINDS and lose yourself in the infectious ‘riddims’, chants and sounds of the Caribbean as she passes through your town soon.
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21 Questions with Alison Hinds
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Personal highlights Her voice is powerful yet sultry, her lyrics and stage demeanor reflecting the t...Personal highlights Her voice is powerful yet sultry, her lyrics and stage demeanor reflecting the true essence of the Caribbean temptress. She is one of the more popular Caribbean soca queens hailing from the lovely island of Barbados and she was lead vocalist in the band Square One which dominated the soca scene in the 80's and the 90's. She is the one and only Allison Hinds. The mother of one has become an icon both regionally and globally in the music arena. Her many songs have served to inspire, entertain and enlighten the musical public. Fully equipped with her own band, "The Alison Hinds Show" which formed in 2005, Hinds returned to the soca scene with the hit song "Roll It Gal" in 2005 after giving birth to her daughter. Considered the anthem for young women, "Roll It Gal" is still popular throughout the region especially the remix, a collaboration with Machel Montano. To date she has collaborated with Shaggy, Richie Spice, Jah Cure and many others. The dreadlocked artiste is not only known for her lyrics and voice but her raggamuffin style and unique stage presentation. As Hinds continues to tour and take soca music worldwide she still finds time for regional Carnivals and festivals. Last week she stopped in Trinidad for the Beat Breast Cancer Musci Festival, a concert hosted by the Basia Survivor Network and First Citizens Bank.
1. What quality do you like most in women?
I like that women are strong when we need to be but, also we're not afraid to show our softness and emotions.
2. Your happiest moment?
My happiest moment, absolutely hands down, was seeing my daughter for the first time after giving birth to her. I was in labour for a whole day and really tired but, when I finally got to see her, tiredness went through the door. I just stared at her for a long time.
3. Your secret fear?
My secret fear I think is going to remain a secret. If I tell you then it's no longer one.
4. Which living person do you admire most?
It may sound cliché but, in my case it's really true. I admire my mum for her strength, beauty and much more. She is without a doubt, my biggest fan and an important part of my support system when things get rough.
5. What quality do you value most in your friends both male or female?
Loyalty and trust are two of the key things that my true friends have because to be betrayed by someone close to you (which has happened to me) is definitely hurtful so I stick with the people who knew me long before my popularity.
6. What is your greatest extravagance?
I think my greatest extravagance would have to be buying stuff for my daughter. I can't help but buy things for her. There's so much cute stuff out there for girls.
7. The place you would like to visit before you die?
I would love to go to Australia and Egypt. Australia just seems so fascinating and to see the pyramids up close and personal would be great.
8. What is your favourite journey?
I don't have one favourite journey but, a few. My first trip to Suriname I'll never forget, going to South Africa and visiting Soweto was amazing and going to Sweden and performing for the King and Queen of Sweden was also a very memorable visit.
9. What advice will you give to those wishing to enter your field?
You have to be strong and focused in this business. Know the "business" side as well as the fun side and have a real passion for it because it's a very fickle business. A strong support system is also key to your success as well as being spiritually grounded. When the down time comes you need to have your passion, your support system and God to keep you going.
10. What is your current state of mind?
I'm in transition right now. My mind is focused on moving on to the next project for me.
11. What is the trait you most deplore in others?
I deplore duplicity. Let me know how you really feel so I know how to deal. I hate fake.
12. What is your greatest joy?
My greatest joy is my daughter.
13. What is your biggest turn on in a man?
l love to see confidence in a man. A man who takes charge but isn't arrogant about it, that's sexy.
14. What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure has to be shoes!!! I know you ladies can identify. I get weak when I see sexy shoes, then I have to buy them.
15. What is your lowest dept of misery?
A long time ago I was in a relationship that brought me way down. I lost myself for a while and had to struggle to get clear and reclaim me again. It took lots of conversations with God and really close and caring friends to find my way back.
16. What is your pet peeve?
I have many pet peeves but one is definitely horrible driving. I can't stand it when some people drive as though they are the only ones on the road. Speeding, cutting you off etc. That really annoys me.
17. What do you get complimented most about?
I get complimented on my looks a lot. My face and my skin and how young I look.
18. When was the last time you cried?
I actually haven't cried for a while. I haven't had reason to and I'm very happy about that .
19. What was the first thing you did this morning?
First thing this morning (and every morning) I hugged my daughter and my husband and then got my day started. We're a very affectionate family.
20. What do you consider your most cherished virtue?
I think the way I help my friends through their difficult times without judging them or their actions is one of my virtues.
21. If you had one personal wish (which you alone can benefit from hence world peace etc not applicable)?
My personal wish would be to see my ultimate dream come true. God and hard work have allowed me to realise some, but not all yet. I can't share it yet but, I know with God's guidance it will happen. Just wait and see.
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Alison Hinds Interview
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USM: When did you begin your singing career and who inspired you?
AH: I was always interested i...USM: When did you begin your singing career and who inspired you?
AH: I was always interested in singing. I enjoyed singing as a child. I begin singing in primary school and the church choir. At the age of sixteen, I entered into a singing competition where I placed third. It got the attention of a local group who asked me to become one of their lead female singers.
USM: You were born in London and move to Barbados at the age of eleven, so why did you choose to sing Soca instead of R&B or pop music?
AH: I enjoy different genre of music. Growing up, I listened to soft rock and alternative rock. However, when I moved to Barbados, Soca was the dominant music.
The band that I joined played all types of music at the time such as, hotel, reggae, pop and R&B. But the band’s core music was Soca. Also, when we started recording we decided to focus on Soca music.
USM: How do you manage being away from your family when you are on tour?
AH: My husband helps out a lot. He is a wonderful husband and father. He picks up all the slack when I am not around. I also have a strong family support system, my parent, my husband’s parents, aunts and uncles. I never have to worry; everyone helps out when I am not around. I also talk to my daughter every day. I am very blessed.
USM: Do you plan on having any more children?
AH: Not sure.
USM: How did you get the name the Soca Queen?
AH: The name was given to me by my fans. I strive to deliver a certain level of performance at all times. I give my best and my all every time I perform. My fans appreciated the hard work that I put into my performances; and they have accepted and embraced me as the Soca Queen.
USM: Your songs are about female empowerment and go getters; is that the way you see yourself as trying to empower and inspire women?
AH: I definitely want to empower and inspire young women. I am happy to have a positive effect on women. I want to inspire young women so that I can help them achieve what they want to do in life. I very proud to be a woman. I want women of color especially to accept themselves for who they are; sexy, beautiful, strong and smart. Soca was dominated by men when I started out. There were no women doing what I am doing, most women was singing Calypso music. I was the first woman who was able to make an impact in Soca in a major way. And now I have young women looking up to me, and trying to become Soca singers themselves.
USM: You had two major cross over collaborations with Sean Paul and Kevin Little; are you planning on teaming up with them or any other artist?
AH: Yes. I have collaborations coming out with Richie Spice called the King and Queen. The song has been released it in different parts of the US, Australia, and Japan.
I also have a collaboration coming out with Shaggy. It is a really hot track called the Street Bullies. Bennie Man and Christopher Martin are on it as well. You can go to MySpace to see the new song with Shaggy.
USM: What other cities will you are performing in?
AH: I have a show in Barbados tomorrow. I am being honored for my contributions and achievements in music.
I will also be performing in the Bahamas, Grenada, and New York. Go to my MySpace page for information about my schedule. Also, you can learn more about me by going to Allison Hinds the real deal on face book. I am also on Tag and my website will be coming out soon.
USM: What next for Alison Hinds?
AH: Finishing up my album (Caribbean Reflection) which is due out later this summer or early fall. The Album will feature different genres of music such as Calypso, Reggae and Soca.
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Photo Diary: Caribbean Carnival in Brooklyn
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Friday night 6 PM: Catching Bajan soca singer Alison Hinds perform at On The Reggae Tip Live. Hinds ...Friday night 6 PM: Catching Bajan soca singer Alison Hinds perform at On The Reggae Tip Live. Hinds is known for the hit “Roll it,” which quickly became an anthem for young women encouraging them to take pride in themselves.
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Alison Hinds aim to top Jamaica chart
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Soca queen Alison Hinds plans to top Jamaican charts with her deejay-studded album Caribbean Queen b...Soca queen Alison Hinds plans to top Jamaican charts with her deejay-studded album Caribbean Queen but noticeably absent is fellow Barbadian star Rihanna.
"We look forward to topping charts everywhere, especially in Jamaica. Caribbean Queen is my gift to all my fans everywhere in the world so that we can celebrate together when I come to town," she told the Observer in an interview.
The album will likely chart locally as it contains collaborations with hitmakers, including Shaggy, Richie Spice, Jah Cure, Lyrikal and Moses--but still no Rihanna.
"This album does not include a collaboration with Rihanna and though it may be something in the future, that time has not come yet," stated Hinds, who is UK-born to Barbadian parents.
These two women are the most popular Barbadian artistes yet they never seen to cross paths musically. The 2004 massive hit Roll it Gyal -- an anthem of female posterior empowerment -- elevated Hinds to regional fame whilst Rihanna, the multi-platinum-selling R&B artiste and model became a superstar following her 2007 global hit Umbrella.
Caribbean Queen (Black Coral Records) was released internationally last week via iTunes. The album was pre-released last month in Trinidad for carnival and currently sits at number two on Trinidadtunes.com. The album is geared at the regional market thus Hinds was not dissuaded by the economic downturn in the US and its effect on crashing record sales.
"The role of albums in the marketplace have changed drastically in the last few years and it is primarily used as a marketing tool so that all my fans can enjoy the music that they have heard me perform and new fans will be able to enjoy the body of my work. Disc jockeys can also have a field day with all the different types of songs that I have been recording," she told the Observer. "My albums are not about America and Americans buying but made for the world to enjoy from the heart of the Caribbean. I represent Caribbean peoples, especially the Caribbean woman, independent, sexy, strong, loving, mother, wife, sister, friend, total. That's the way I roll. I am your Caribbean Queen."
Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/alison-Hinds-_7494035#ixzz1JoNr0J5S
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