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Machel Montano – ‘Advantage’

Fresh out of delivering what many fans considered the best performance of his career, and claiming the 2011 Trinidad Soca Monarch crown, Caribbean Soca Legend Machel Montano is heading our way to give Guyanese an unforgettable show, along with fellow musicians Patrice Roberts, Farmer Nappy and the HD Band for the ‘Advantage’ concert billed for the Guyana National Stadium on Saturday, June 18th!

This is neither the first nor second time Montano has graced our local shores, however like true addicts, Guyanese can’t seem to get enough of this generally perceived ‘King of Soca’! Montano told Hits and Jams that he absolutely loves his Guyanese supporters and can’t wait to arrive so that he can experience our scrumptious cuisine and famed hospitality once again! The artistes have all prepared astounding performances with hopes to have the crowd ‘partying hard’ till morning in true Soca style!

Tickets are available at Ashmins Trading for $1,500 while VIP passes are $12,000 for those who want an up close and personal view of the event!

– Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Olive Gopaul Show to be Launched Wednesday June 1st, 2011

Olive Gopaul Show Logo

One week after the American queen of daytime talk show vacated the screen, Guyanese aspiring talk show presenter, Olive Gopaul will launch the Olive Gopaul Talk Show – a unique, classy and stylist talk show – here in Guyana.

 

The show, which is a production of Olive Nalini Gopaul Productions [O.N.G. Productions], will feature a range of topics of interest to the Guyanese viewing and listening public both locally and in the Diaspora. Areas to be focused on in the first three months include: challenges of the modern family, healthy living, Guyanese inspirational personalities, courtship and marriage, fashion.

The show is recorded before a live audience, and will be divided into four seasonal productions per year, each season comprising of 36 shows to be aired three times per week.

On Wednesday June 1st at the Duke Lodge at 6:30pm in Kingston there will be a Red Carpet Launch and Preview of the talk show before special invitees.

Ms. Gopaul is a former Miss Guyana beauty queen, former television news anchor, and one of the hosts of the Lotto draws.

– An ONG Production

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Guyana Baboo – Terry G in Top 15

Terry GTrinidad International Chutney Competition

After a grueling Semi Final round at the Rienzi complex in Couva, and 4 intense days of both online and text voting for the BMobile Wildcard that accumulated more than 26,000 votes, the names of the 15 finalists are finally in and  a Guyanese is among the lot.

For the first time in the competition’s history a Guyanese has reached the finials of the Trinidad International Chutney Monarch Competition. His is the lone Guyanese that is still in the 2011 competition from a field of more than 120 entries including Guyanese Adrian Dutchin and Mahendra Ramkellawanlall.  Dutchin did not make the first cut but Ramkellwan and Terry G did but after another cut that has brought the list down to 15 the lone Guyanese representative is the Guyana Baboo Terry Gajraj.

To him its an honor to be in this line-up especially since he is putting Guyana on the forefront in the line of chutney entertainment. His Semi final performance was a Bollywood spectacle with his dancers & actors to the song Sumatee for which more props and story line will be added for the finals. The song which is fast gaining recognition on the local, T&T & North America airwaves was produced by Big Rich Out of the T&T with a guest appearance by Ravi B in the song.

Terry G is calling on all Guyanese to give him the support as we puts Guyana on show at this prestigious annual competition by voting online & or text messages at http://www.simplyvote.net/csm/  or www.ChutneySocaMonarch.com .

Terry Gajraj code name is TGA and Entertainer is encouraging all as true Guyanese to vote TGA for the “Guyana Baboo” who’s representing Guyana all the way.

Reports are that once he wins Terry pledges that he will donate $2Million to charity for kids in Guyana & Trinidad. The first prize is $2M T&T Dollars

It should be noted that the 2011 edition has been the best Semi Final in the history of the competition, not only from the level of the production of the event, but also from the level of performances delivered by all 41 contestants.

This gave the judges the hard task of having to pick 14 from the pack of 41, while the last person earned a place via the online, International and local text votes.

The 15 finalist in the ‘Race for 2 Million’ are scheduled to compete at Skinner Park, San Fernando on Saturday February 19.

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International, Grammy winning singer to ignite Jamzone 2K10!

NeyoOver the years, the Hits and Jams Entertainment team has undeniably set the precedent for Guyanese entertainment by hosting some of the most ‘explosive’ events of Guyana’s history. Patrons have witnessed performances by some of the greatest regional and international artistes including Hip-hop Mogul Akon, Soca Megastar Machel Montano and the HD Band and Cross-over Chutney band, Karma.

However, since this organization is always determined to create unsurpassable standards, the team presents to you, the Jamzone International Night; a new addition to the roster of Jamzone Summer Break Weekend activities.

There has been much buzz about the individual that will be headlining this show and the team is pleased to announce that International R&B/Pop singer and Grammy award winner Neyo has been booked for this event.

Neyo
Since his debut in 2006 this singer, song-writer, record-producer and actor has had five top ten songs on the Billboard Hot 100 as a leading artiste and two number one albums on the Billboard 200. Neyo has also gained massive respect in the International Music Industry for his song-writing skills, having penned number one Billboard hits such as ‘Irreplaceable’ by R&B singer Beyonce, ‘Russian Roulette’, ‘Unfaithful’ and ‘Take A Bow’ by Rihanna, ‘Let Me Love You’ by Singer Mario and myriads of others singles for artistes such as Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Leona Lewis.

Having performed all over the world, three of the singer’s four albums have received Gold, Platinum and Silver certifications in both the United States and the United Kingdom making him one of the most celebrated male R&B artistes of the decade.

In September of this year, Neyo will release his fourth album entitled ‘Libra Scale’ which is expected to include several chart-topping singles and maybe even several award nominations.
This once-in-a-lifetime performance is billed for August 21st, 2010 at the Guyana National Stadium where Neyo will be accompanied by his band and backup dancers. Admission fee is set at an affordable cost of two thousand dollars. “We want to continue to bring Guyanese the best in entertainment, and Jamzone 2010 is set to do just that” said director Kerwin Bollers. The promotional team has joined forces with the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture and some of the biggest companies in Guyana to ensure that these events are successful.  For more details visit www.jamzonesummerbreak.com.

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Miss Jamzone Guyana

Amidst nerves and anticipation Nikita Archer proudly stands to represent Guyana

Miss Guyana Jamzone 2010 - Nikita Archer
Miss Guyana Jamzone 2010 - Nikita Archer

The unveiling of the delegates in this year’s Miss Jamzone International 2010 pageant has created quite a buzz among the Guyanese public since the organizing committee has chosen to include Caribbean delegates in the line-up. Nevertheless, the committee assures the public that they have made competent selections based on the applications that were received.

 

Initially, the committee had stated that the local representative would be chosen via a reality show however; due to several uncontrollable problems they could not complete this task. Nevertheless, the team hosted a screening and invited every individual that had applied to participate in this process. Prospective delegates were interviewed before a panel of competent judges and five persons short-listed. The final five completed a similar process and eventually the local ambassador was selected.

Since, Guyanese are anxious to catch a glimpse of the local ambassador we are pleased to introduce to you; an accomplished, eloquent, enthralling Guyanese beauty who proudly represents the land of Eldorado – Meet Miss Jamzone Guyana 2010 Nikita Archer.

This former Bishops High School graduate who speaks fluent Spanish, French, Portuguese and English is currently attached to Queens College High School as a French/Spanish teacher. At just 24 years Nikita is already moving apace on the path to fulfill her goal of being an established linguist and she fervently advocates ‘education’ which she believes is a ‘process of living and not a preparation for future living’.

In a recent interview Ms. Archer described herself as empathetic, flexible and strong in interpersonal skills. She confessed that while she’s somewhat an introvert person her reclusive nature often simulates an air of confidentiality, reliability and a strong sense of self.
This young pioneer is certain that she will whisk away the title of Miss Jamzone International 2010 regardless of the pressure that surrounds being the local ambassador.
In a final statement, Nikita explained that in light of the fact that the general public has expressed concern over the integration of Caribbean delegates in this year’s pageant, she intends to proudly and competently display Guyana’s rich cultural heritage while successfully representing our country at the event. This self-assured beauty is requesting 100% support from her fellow citizens.
If Miss Archer is unable to fulfill her duties the pageant’s organizing committee has already selected an equally competent individual to fill this post.

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The Gully God to invade the Guyana National Stadium!

mavadoYes! The rumors are true! As many may have already heard Jamzone Dancehall/ Reggae Night will be headlined by one of the major Jamaican Dancehall artistes. Die hard Dancehall fans can get ready for one night of great entertainment since Jamaican Superstar Movado has been confirmed for this event.

David Constantine Brooks who is known to the world as Mavado or more recently “The Gully God”, the singer behind the eerie wails of “Anywayyy!” and “Gangsta for life!” has safely secured himself as one of the most consistent artistes while dominating the airwaves with his mind-blowing tracks.

The singer who made his debut in 2004 with the single ‘Real McKoy’ has gained immense attention as an artiste, not only in the region, but Mavado has collaborated with international artistes such as Jay Z, Foxy Brown, Bobby Valentino, Wyclef Jean, Lil Wayne and T-Pain.
This EME award winner is currently working on his fourth album ‘Life of Gully God’ and is enjoying a number one spot with single ‘Come into my room’ feat Jamaican singer Stacious.

The Jamzone Dancehall/Reggae Night will be staged on August 20th, 2010 at the Guyana National Stadium. Admission is set at an affordable cost of fifteen hundred dollars. The Hits & Jams Promotional Team is still set to announce more acts for the event but insist that it will be a high energy concert.

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Seven to contest Miss Linden 2010 title

A line-up of seven  Linden beauties are carded to contest the Miss Linden Town Week crown and while the delegates are being treated to mixed  comments the organisers are promising that the pageant will be probably the best staged in recent times.

The delegates are Monette Mingo, Wrenea Nikiesha Iana Sydney, Shellon Milling, Ruqayyah Boyer, Rhonda Harry, Shenella Oneshia Thomas and Michon Guillaume. The pageant is set for Saturday May 1, at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

Meet some of the delegates for Miss Linden Town Week 2010

Monette MingoDelegates #1

Name: Monette Mingo

D.O.B:  May  28, 1986

Location: Central Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Linden

Education: Burnham Drive Nursery, Christianburg Primary School, Christianburg Wismar Secondary School and Linden Technical Institute

Modest, Obedient, Natural, Exquisite, Talented, Teasing and Exciting are the words Mingo uses to describe herself. She is the youngest of two brothers and two sisters.

A graduate of the Linden Technical Institute she holds a diploma in Computer Science and gained a pass in architectural drawing at the Corner Stone Construction. She aspires to be her own boss.

“I love listening to people and their views on various topics and am inspired by the old saying that a good listener is a good learner,” she said. She has a serious dislike for abusive persons, racism and gossipers.

Shellon Esther Tiffiney MillingDelegate #3

Name: Shellon Esther Tiffiney Milling

In the eyes of many she said she’s seen as sweet, honest, energetic, loving, loyal, obedient and nice! This 17-year-old is born under the zodiac sign of Leo and stands at 161 centimeters tall.

A Blue Berry Hill, Wismar, Linden resident she attended the Wismar Hill Primary School and the New Silver City Secondary School. She’s at present pursuing a diploma in Computer Science at the Linden Technical Institute with plans to further her studies at the University level.

“My aspiration is to become one of Guyana’s most qualified teachers so that I can help build a foundation for future generations since I find it a great pleasure working along with children.”

She has a passion for fashion and pageantry and enjoys hanging out with friends, meeting new people, surfing the internet, keeping my home tidy and most of all sharing happy moments with family. One of her dislikes is an untidy environment.

Ruqayyah BoyerDelegate# 4

Name: Ruqayyah Boyer

Born in Suriname, Ruqayyah, meaning charming, righteous and advancement said she was destined to be a model as she was a long legged infant.  Taurus by zodiac sign, this 19-year-old believes that her perseverance, stamina and stubbornness to excel make her the prosperous young lady she is.

However her professional aspiration is to become an environmental lawyer in keeping with her passion for mother earth and its protection. She also has an interest in being a novelist whilst still attaining a degree in psychology, communications and international relations.

Her education began as Mackenzie Primary School. She went on to complete third form at the ISA Academy before transferring to the Mackenzie High School in Linden where she currently resides.

She passed ten subjects at the CSEC Level I and continued at St. Stanislaus College for two years where she gained eight subjects at Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and an Associates Degree in General studies.

She now aspires to pursue studies in law at UWI in the near future.

“I have had the pleasure in partaking in school shows and activities nationwide. I was able to perform, live, some of my personal pieces whether music or deaf poetry. I also attended Classique Dance Company where I developed strong technique in hip hop, contemporary, salsa, meringue, ballet, modern and African dances.

She also starred the local film ‘Ole house pun ole house’ part 2. Her other extra curricula activities include volunteering at the national library with the reading circle, doing community work through organizations such as Rotaract, Guyana Youth and Student Movement and Beacon of hope foundation among other charitable ventures.

She participated in the Miss Guyana Talented Teens pageant then went on to represent Guyana at Miss Teen Universal and is currently preparing for the Miss Carnival in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“I see myself as a paradigm for my peers and would like to set a good example and also do what I can to make Guyana an oasis of excellence.”

Ruqayyah Boyer sees herself as “the essence of a true Guyanese woman who walks with the rhythm of a Caribbean woman and mirrors a feminine grace, beauty, charisma and mental power.

“I am emblematic like my role model Oprah Winfrey and would bring euphoria to anyone who has a close encounter with me”.

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Motion picture Arts Scholarship for Vanilla

VanillaGuyanese soca artiste and three time road march Queen Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts has been awarded a scholarship to the University of The West Indies Barbados to pursue studies in Motion Picture Arts. The five month course commenced on February 1, 2011 and will conclude in June.  At the end of the course she would have covered several areas including:  The entire film making process from pre-production to production and post production; acquired knowledge that prepares her to engage in the practice of film as an art form and technical discipline. She will also acquire skills to professionally work as a member of a film crew and be able to create a short film from initial idea to finished work. Additionally Vanilla will acquired knowledge of entrepreneurial and business skills that can be applied to a career as a film technician

The programme is a full time study one and will culminate in the production of a full length film.

Vanillas scholarship is a result of the continued effort by Kross Kolor Records to ensure that its artistes continue to develop in various areas of the entertainment industry and to pursue excellence wherever possible.

Vanillas Scholarship comes on the heels of the President’s Endorsement to the arts for the development of five short films and one animated short film, her skills gained would serve to enhance this project. Kross Kolor Records is expressing gratitude to The Kashif and Shanghai Organisation, Digicel and Banks DIH for their kind assistance in our company’s quest for Vanilla to participate in the scholarship programme.

In related news two performers from Kross Kolor Records, Tennicia Defreitas and Ossie O have just concluded an animation workshop at the University of Guyana. The course which was made possible through the Communications Department of the University was conducted by personnel from Canadian Company Toon Boon, whose software was featured in making animated movies such as the princess and the frog and the Prince of Persia.

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Tamika Henry ONE-ON-ONE (more that meets the eye)

Tamika HenryDo you know Miss Guyana Universe 2010?

Morvinya Sobers, Lianna Damond, Mia Rahaman, Odessa Phillips, Meleesa Payne Jenella Cox all took aim as  Guyanese Beauty ambassadors at the Miss Universe crown but while some got pre-pageant night international media attention they never made the final cut.  In fact no Guyanese in recent years has been able to do that despite their best formulas and strategies.

Last year our hopes were pinned on Tamika Henry: a rounded Guyanese Scholar who arguably is more than just a beauty and a warm personality. Yet again Guyana’s hopes were dashed, and some have thrown the towel in while optimists look to the 2011 competition with hopes galore.

The pampering clouds have faded leaving fond and treasured memories of a month of all expenses paid; enviable glitz and glamorous experiences in Sin City, Las Vegas, USA. Miss Guyana has returned home quietly void of the pomp and ceremony accorded queens in other countries with a mission.

A Queens’ College grandaunt from the Tucville Community, this Guyana scholar who completed a Degree in Forensics at the Miami University unlike some past queens is not likely to fade into the woodwork anytime soon. Tamika is among a privilege few that will not only be a beauty queen face but a personality to look for in Guyana’s forensic fraternity with an eye and  brain for detail that could see many crimes being solved through scientific genius.

During her One-one -One interview on Caribbena Music Box we realized that amidst all the famous educational and fashion exploits, Tamika is an average Guyanese girl, very simple with a love for cooking, music and playing with animals. But while she paraded herself in swimsuits on the local shores and the USA for the world to see she categorically states that “I’m a very strict church girl.”

One of five siblings in a home with its own financial difficulties, she blossomed from a shy, quiet and withdrawn lass into an outspoken woman of substance who realized that the best way to become a person of note in society she “had to be smart.”

“Education is the key to the world and fulfilling your dreams …If I’m smart enough I could get a scholarship, go study abroad and then make real money and live the good life…that was my aim growing up.” Hence she gained a place at Queen’s College where she did home work at times for some of her peers.

By Mondale Smith