In the earlier part of his life, before anyone knew him as Olbenz, Kernel Stevens was just an ordinary church-going child who dreamed of playing in the church band. He was born in a small rural village on the western side of Dominica called Layou, where he was raised in the Christian faith by his strict grandparents. At the age 9 Olbenz had already developed a passion for Reggae music, spending most of his time studying the works of Bob Marley and the Wailers as well as Dominican-born Reggae superstar Nasio Fontaine. This love of reggae opened the doors to Rastafarai, and a established a foundation for its philosophy in Olbenz' life and music.

Performing at every opportunity he had, Olbenz soon grew to become a crowd favorite at local performances and was even dubbed « OLBENZ DI FIYA WARRIOR» . A young Reggae/Dancehall producer and artist called Yorle B was so impressed by Olbenz talent, he offered him an opportunity to be part of his Lickle Bwoy soun crew. Olbenz quickly accepted. In 1997, the group was at the top of the local Top 20 chart with their first radio single "Tell Dem Already". The following year they performed at the Fame Awards where they were nominated for the in the Best New Group category. Olbenz star was definitely rising a a member of Likkle Bwoy, but in 1998 the group broke up and everyone went their separate ways.

Olbenz embarked on a solo project , the result of which was the album Judgement. With help from his past manager/producer Jawanza Stuart and top Dominican music composer/engineers like Gerard Julien(Music Factory) as well as Cornell Phillip(Imperial Publishing), he captured the hearts and minds of many with his prolific writing skills and a powerful voice. His first music video was for the track "Brainwash" and was featured on the french television network (RFO) and on the national cable company MARPIN. Olbenz took two years before releasing his sophomore album Look To Africa, this time getting assistance Dominica's most controversial radio icon Frankie "Crazy T" Bellot and international Candencelypso artist and producer Gordon Henderson. Not only did he have new producers he had a new sound. On the cover of the album was a very focused Olbenz looking to Africa perhaps? He says that the Look to Africa album is a manifestation of his spirit in its musical form.

His vision of a unified black nation resonates throughout his music. Whether it's decrying the things that stand in the way of such unity or to celebrate those that encourage it. Some of his more popular songs are: "Forever", "Do What I Do" (feat. Dice), "Ka Yo Le", "Pawol", "No Need No Gun (Sa Kombin)", "My Home", "Bad Times", "Without You" (Open Source Compilation), "Need You Girl" (my ultimate favorite!!!), "Go Get My Gun", "Lavie" (Teworistz), "Keep It Burning" (Triple Kayous compilation), "Do Looze Your Head" and most recently "Red Klinic" the title track on the Red Klinic compilation album. His song "Call On Jah" featured in the Toulousse & Nantes Top 10 Reggae Chart was the first Dancehall release on 45 by a Dominican artist.

As far as stage performance goes, expect intensity, energy and versatility. Olbenz has performed with the best of them: Capleton, Turbulence, Junior Kelly, Bounty Killer, Sham, Nelly Stharre, Kassav, Jeff Joseph, and Admiral T.

Son of Africa, Creole speaker, he sets the stage on fiyah....Olbenz you are officially The Lime certified!!!

Q&A

1. Can you name one place you’ve never visited but would like to and why?
Any where in Africa,because I've been singing about Africa and black history from the start of my career. I really think people of every race should get in touch with their motherland as its part of him or her .


2. When you are long gone what do you want to be remembered for?
I would like to be remembered as one who never believe in giving up; and for making good and inspiring music in trying times.


3. You sing in English and French/French Creole, what drove you to do that?
I was exposed to the french music market in 2001 with a song entitled "No Need No Guns" which i recorded on one of the biggest french Dancehall compilations ever. The album's name was San Kombin and it received an award for SACEM Best Dancehall Album. That same year, it so happen my song was one of the radio hits, so practically every follower of french Dancehall knew the chorus of of my song. The only problem was that they didn't really understand the song because it was written in English so since then i took a decision to start writing in French and Creole in order that my french fans could relate to my music .


4. Some say Reggae artists have it easier than their Dancehall counterparts. You sing both genres. Do you see that bias when it comes to your music?
Actually no, I don't see that bias because in doing different genres of music, I am automatically able reach more people who have various liking for different genre of music too; as opposed to an artist who only does one genre of music. As long as you do both very well the listeners will more than welcome it.


5. If you could describe yourself as a tree, which would you be and why?
A mangrove tree because it has a lot of strong roots. For several years now in our country Olbenz has played a leading role in Reggae/Dancehall music, planting strong roots for those who will follow.


6. What three things could you do on a boring day?
*Take a drive to the beach
*Go to the studio
*Make love


7. Do you have any tattoos? How many? Any interesting stories there?
No tattoos, just my birthmark.


8. If you could eat one food in excess without gaining a pound, what would it be?
Dumplings in coconut gravy.


9. What pisses you off?
People who always try to outsmart me., aye I'm no fool.

10. What is your favorite:
day of the week-Sunday. that's the only day I get some rest.
breakfast food-Coco tea.
cereal- Con Flakes is my cereal of choice.
book-Any John Grisham novel would do the trick
part of a woman’s body-The breasts.





Go With Your Gut

11. Good food or good lovin?
I'm a Virgo it's got to be excellent love making.

12. Wine up or boogie down?
Wine up everyday.

13. Sexy body or pretty face?
Give me the sexy body gal.

14. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom.

15. Vanilla or chocolate?
I'd rather chocolate.






Finish It

16. I am addicted to good sex and good music.

17. Women are simply beautiful.

18. Condoms are a life saver but they take away the essence of sex.

19. I once fell asleep while I was driving.

20. Ol Benz Warrior you need to get to know him.

Click HERE to read Olbenz responses to questions on our theme "Stars On The Rise"

myspace.com/olbenzmusic
Olbenz on Facebook

Discovered by Saint International CEO, Deiwght Peters, Crystal Cunningham was launched onto the international fashion scene after being spotted at Fashion Face of the Caribbean, 2008. Crystal was then flown to New York to develop her portfolio with some of the industry’s leading fashion photographers. She was subsequently signed to one of Cape Town’s top modeling agencies, Base Models and has worked for prestigious clients such as Levis, Ponds and Oprah Magazine. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, this 5”10 beauty is an international model turn TV host and producer who is destined to leave her mark on the world.

Crystal began modeling at a very tender age at both nursery school and primary school however it was never really her thing as she was too shy and even though many opportunities came her way, education was always her main focus. Crystal graduated from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics (Honours). She interned at one of the top 500 banks in the world, First Caribbean International Bank, where she eventually climbed the corporate ladder to the post of Assistant Company Secretary.

In 2004, Crystal entered the Miss Trinidad and Tobago Pageant and later represented her country at the Miss Caraibes Hibiscus Pageant in St. Maarten where she copped the Miss Photogenic title. From there, she has been invited to participate in a number of regional fashion events including Dominicana Moda, Style Week Jamaica and Fashion Block, walking for top designers such as B. Michael, Ed Hardy, Bas Koster, Roger Gary, Lois Samuels, Claudia Pegus, Meiling, and Heather Jones amongst others.

While modeling remains her first love, Crystal's undying passion for television has led to a gig as the co-host and assistant producer of SPLASH! – a 13-part, 2 hour, Caribbean lifestyle magazine series segmented by tasteful Caribbean and African music videos on Viacom's newest network, Centric (formerly BETJ). Crystal has interviewed the likes of Shaka Sisulu, grandson of freedom fighter, Walter Sisulu in the struggle to end Apartheid, Billy Mystic of the legendary reggae band, The Mystic Revealers, Demarco, Cecile, Icah Wilmot and Arturo Tappin just to name a few.

With a thriving broadcasting career, both in front of and behind the camera, Crystal has also lent her talents to the silver screen making her debut in the movie “Themba”, a German-South African film production about a young, impoverished South African boy with dreams of becoming a football star. Just in time for World Cup 2010, naturally, the subject is football, and the way the sport gives hope, joy, and strength to the South African youth, and for many is the only way to forget about the hardships of life, if only for a few moments, while chasing the ball on the pitch. The film stars the former German national team keeper Jens Lehman, as Coach John Jacobs, and Junior Singo as Themba.

A proud Caribbean woman of many talents, Crystal Cunningham you are officially The Lime certified!







Q&A


1. Do you have a favorite phrase or saying?
Yes, “Happiness doesn’t means that everything’s perfect; it means you’ve decided to see beyond the imperfections”


2. Have you ever had a crazy/embarrassing/very memorable moment on set?
Oh yes – it was during the filming of a TV commercial for a French client. There were many props on set including a camel and my role was cat woman so I had big hair. Not only was this commercial memorable because I never saw a camel before, but it was also embarrassing because the camel was chewing on my hair!


3. If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?
Flying – there aren’t nearly enough frequent flyer miles to cover my traveling expenses and all the places I would like to visit


4. When you are long gone what do you want to be remembered for?
As someone who helped flew the flag of my country high on the International fashion and/or television circuit


5. If you could describe yourself as a tree, what would you be and why?
The Bamboo – unlike other forest trees, the bamboo takes at least 5 years for a single sprout to from the earth however just 6 months after that first sprout, the bamboo tree can grow to over 100 feet tall. While other forest trees blossom the bamboo spends many years growing roots, roots which not only make the bamboo strong but also give it what it needs to survive; rise as high as it can and be the tallest in the forest!


6. Being from the Caribbean where women are lauded for their curves and get compliments for being ‘thick’ , how have you handled the contrast with the modeling industry where thin is in?
Interesting question…it has been a bit of a challenge at times and although in general I am naturally slim, I do have some typical Caribbean woman attributes. Daily exercise and a balanced diet help me to maintain my Caribbean figure while meeting international standards.


7. What are the three most listened songs in your iPod and why do you listen to them so often?
"Say Ahhh" – Trey Songz ft Fabulous, "Say Something" – Timbaland ft Drake and "Meet me Half Way"– Black Eyed Peas – the beats keep me going when the work out gets tough!


8. What is the craziest thing you have done for someone of the opposite sex (or vice versa)?
Fly half way around the world to see me for one day!


9. Who is your favorite teacher and what would they say if they could see you now?
Mr. Elder and he’d probably say, “That’s a Cunningham. I always knew she would reach far.”


10. What is your favorite:
place to score retail deals-Forever 21 (I love that store)
genre of music- R&B/Hip Hop and Soca
breakfast food-Croissants, Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese; Pancakes or Waffles, Bacon and Eggs and of course my traditional trini breakfast food, sada roti and roasted eggplant or cheese – what can I say, I love food
colour-Right now I’m feeling purple
thing to wear to bed –tank and shorts




Go With Your Gut

11. Beach or Jaccuzzi?
Beach

12. Tokyo or Paris?
Both because I’ve always wanted to visit Tokyo and because I’m in the fashion industry, Paris has a natural appeal

13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Again both, wisdom grants you the ability to use your knowledge powerfully

14. Roti or Pelau?
I love curry so definitely roti

15. Club or Sofa (best place for a date)?
Sofa – I much prefer quiet evenings watching one of my favourite movies while enjoying Chinese take out









Finish It

16. Yesterday I skipped as part of my daily exercise routine

17. My Trini accent is said to be exotic – when I travel, strangers always ask me to say something, especially their names

18. Condoms are not nearly talked about enough in our schools. We need to adopt an active sex education program which embodies its usage and importance.

19. It’s a pity that Africa was not a stones throw away!

20. Crystal Cunningham would like to thank The Lime for giving her the opportunity to share a little about herself with her Caribbean people.

Click HERE to read Crystal's answers to our themed questions (Stars on the Rise)

Crystal on Facebook
SPLASH!

Some Dancehall artists release songs like they’re serving popcorn at Carib Cinema. I like Protoje. He takes his time. Considering the subtly of his messages, hidden in double entendres and creative word play, we need time to develop our mental dexterity and digest his lyrics, to be honest. He recently released the video for his song “Dread” which came exactly one year after the release of the highly acclaimed “Arguments” video. Next up is “JA” his homage to the country of his birth-Jamaica. After seven years consumed by improving his craft, he is now enjoying the fruits of his labour. Both “Dread” and “Arguments” are enjoying regular rotation on some of Jamaica’s hit stations.

His friend Evaflow called him Protoje, but he was born Oje Ken Oliverre. He says he was never pressured into music but few will venture to say the fact that his mother is Reggae icon/attorney Lorna Bennett and his father is Vincentian calypso veteran Michael “Lord Have Mercy” Olivierre had nothing to do with his obvious talent. It’s in his veins. Must be. Protoje says he always listened to great music -even as a child, so outside influences were there from the onset as well. Some noteworthy favorites include Black Uhuru, Winston Mcanuff, and Hugh Mandell. He’s young, but an old soul. Learning from the legends of Reggae, Protoje could not have a more fitting name.

His debut album The Seven Year Itch, which chronicles his musical growth over the last seven years, reflects this retro vibe. He first started with Dancehall but after producer Chris Cooper handed him some beats, his sound has evolved to the Reggae dub style his fans have come to love. Look out for his three latest offerings “Arguments”, “Dread” and “JA” as well as songs such as “On The Road”, “Try” “Wrong Side of the Law” and “Grow” featuring Janine "Jah9" Cunningham. Locals got a first-hand taste of what’s to come with his live performance at Weekendz on December 4th 2009, dubbed “The Seven Year Wish.” Backed by his In-Digg-Nation band, Protoje as well as his alter-ego Diggy wowed the crowd: fans as well as patrons hearing him for the first time.

That seems to be the typical trend at any performance of his. First–timers are usually sold. His sound is unique. They have to listen. Apart from Weekenz, Protoje has performed at other Jamaican live music hot-spots like Red Bonez and Christopher’s Jazz Café. He has touched the mike in various locations from Acropolis gaming club to Jamnessia Sessions on Bull Bay. Though international acclaim and commercial success would be welcome by Protoje, he says he is not looking for a “buss.” In fact his ultimate goal is to produce and help develop upcoming artists and offer guidance on their craft. I think he is already on his way. With his House of Diggy Label and band In-Digg-Nation, Protoje enables other artists such as Jah9, Makeida, and EvaFlow to join him on stage and get exposure as well.

Speaking of exposure Protoje was selected by Miami-based, international DJ Crown Prince to host his Reggae Mixtape titled For the Love of Reggae. His is constantly promoting his efforts on his Facebook page where he made his songs available for download and even posted the lyrics to “Dread”. His YouTube page boasts several videos of him performing live, in studio, and in interviews. Kudos to him for his marketing efforts, which embrace and encourage originality in art. His singles have so far featured interesting artwork (done by Taj Francis) reflecting the subject matter. Just another show of how serious he is about walking the walk when it comes to being true to his artistic vision.

It is wonderful that Protoje is so focused, so he can hold his own in the studio with his well-known cousin, music producer Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett. His visions come to life in videos directed by his sister LeAnn Olivierre. Obviously talent runs in this family.

80's baby, otherwise known as Diggy:-) Protoje you are officially The Lime certified!



Q&A


1. When was your most recent splurge? What did you buy?
I go crazy with equipment. I just bought a base and amp.


2. Can you describe your ideal woman? Have you met her?
Ideal, I cyan answer that in a sentence…hmmm. Just a woman who can strengthen me you know. Women bring forth life and they bring forth creation on a whole so with a strong woman like that you know you and her can bring forth anything it this world that you can dream of. So that’s what I am looking for a humble and strong woman. I’ve met humble and strong women, but I’ve been solo for a while now.


3. Who is your most memorable teacher? What do you thing they would say if they saw you now?
My most memorable teacher is Mr. Rowe from Munroe College. He taught me 4th and 5th form biology. I guess he’d be proud of me. He was somebody that always stand up for me when dem say oh don't come school because my hair knot up or my beard doh shave or whatever. I didn’t pass biology so I let him down, but me and him always stayed cool. What he taught me didn’t have to do much with school per se-it was understanding how de world run.


4. If you had to find a needle in a haystack how would you do it?
I would burn down the haystack and see if I can find the needle.


5. If you could describe yourself as a tree what would you be and why?
A marijuana tree and is just because they adapt inna any environment - don’t need no particular climate or fertilizer or whatever. Just drop it somewhere and it just grows.


6. You have Vincentian roots. How often do you visit? Any favorite things to do there?
I’ve been to St. Vincent once when I was around 15 or 16 and stayed with my Dad for a short while. I haven’t’ had the chance to travel much in the last couple years but I definitely want to go check it out and really get to know the place properly.


7. Could you be in an open relationship?
What’s an open relationship? (When you and your girl love each other but agree that you can both see other people). Yes, I could.


8. What are the top three things you dream about?
I dream about being on stage a lot and it will be different scenarios. Like up to last night I dream that I was on stage and ran out of breath and had to be stalling and one bag of stuff…I really have a lot of abstract dreams, they’re not about much-just bits and pieces… I dream about losing teeth too (how do you lose them, do you eat food and it comes out with the food?) it’s loose, I cyan tell you what happen, but I don’t know... I just dream about losing teeth.


9. If your life had a theme song what would it be and why?
Yow, your questions dem tough still (laugh) Asking a musician what him theme song goin be kno say 200 songs a run in a mi head. There’s this song that Jah9 does that says I am my own design from concept to execution. I fell in love with that line and that whole song. I try to pattern myself to do with that song. I am my own design


10. What is your favorite:
video game-EVER??? (you should see how his face lightup…lol) metal gear solid
basketball team-Lakers. 100% easy
female body part- collar bone
time for a power nap- 4 o’clock in the evening
breakfast food- roast breadfruit


Go With Your Gut

11. Black or purple?
Black

12. Misty morning or rainy night?
Rainy night

13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom

14. Boardgames or movies?
Movies

15. New York or Miami?
Miami



Finish It

16. Sometimes its good to not speak.

17. You wouldn’t believe this but I am really, really shy and quiet.

18. Condoms.Use them.

19. When I was 16 I thought I was going to play basketball professionally.

20. Protoje-music.

Click HERE to read his questions on Success and how he feels about being a Star on The Rise.

Protoje.com
myspace.com/protoje
Facebook.com/protoje

Artistic interpretation of "Dread" by Taj Francis

"Arguments"



"Dread"

I met Theo at a fashion event in Montego Bay last year where he was head makeup artist. He struck me as very friendly and approachable. He is good at what he does guys so I am very honored to feature him here on our Stars On The Rise feature.

Theo Faulkner has been working within the fashion industry for 12 years. He worked for a variety of make up companies and has perfected his craft both in the United States and abroad. The most important element of Theo's work is to be able to use his creativity to enhance natural beauty yet bring out a person's inner beauty and individuality all while blending it to create the "perfect look"...

His specialties include (and are not limited to) print, commercial, fashion, beauty, and men's grooming.

His training and education, along with his affable personality provides his clients with a dependable, detail-oriented, and multi-faceted professional to add to the success of the creative team of any project, within the production budget and schedule, regardless of the nature, scope or location.

Whether by artistry techniques, beautiful skin tones, breath-taking shading or coordinating exquisite colors always with the needs, goals and objective of the project foremost in his presentation. He is an accomplished and creative makeup artist & hair stylist with experience in all aspects of media makeup: fashion, video and print.

Among the clients that he has worked with recently are:

Nike/ Oprah Magazine/ America's Next Top Model/ Sony/ BMI/ Atlantic/ BET "Spring Bling"/ BET "Rip The Runway"/ BET J "Best Shorts"/ BET J "The J List"/ MTV Promo/ Pepsi/ Uptown Magazine/ Black Enterprise Magazine/ Ocean Style Magazine/ Ocean Style Fashion Show/ Glamour Magazine/ Jive Records/ M.A.C. Cosmetics/ IMAN Cosmetics/ BOOTS Cosmetics USA/ Milani Cosmetics/





Q&A


1. What’s the most common mistake made when applying make-up?Do you have any advice?
One of the common mistakes in applying make up is not putting on a good moisturizer before you put on foundation. Taking care of your skin is the first step in having great make up application; you have to moisturize the skin first before you do anything.


2. How often do you go home to the BVI (I hope is BVI and not USVI-correct me if I’m wrong, k)? What do you like to do?
It’s BVI….. I go about 3 to 4 times a year. When I go I try and relax and enjoy time with my family.


3. Ever been star-struck?
Who was the celeb? No I have not. Stars are just people like you and I.


4. What was the reason the last time you cried?
I have cried when a family member told me some disturbing news. What did you do to cope? I put it on God and rely on him.


5. What was your coolest retail find in a most unusual place?
This great T-Shirt VSL at a thrift store. $2 can’t beat that.


6. If you had three minutes on National TV what would you do/say?
I would say feed the world. And that life is about service.


7. What makes you feel important?
My Belief in the Universe… in that I know there is a reason I am here.


8. What are some turn ons and turn offs when dating?
Turn on’s are having great personality, Turn off’s are over talking and not knowing how to communicate. To much too soon…J


9. If you could describe yourself as a beauty tool/product/item, what would you be and why?
I would be a chap stick it’s a every day product that every one can use it… I would be able to help everyone….


10. What are your favorite:
drugstore purchase, GUM
place to eat for under &20US- NY
Fashion week- Nergril Fashion Week
breakfast food Ackee & Saltfish with Jonny Cake
Caribbean artist Mr Vegas / JW & Blaze











Go With Your Gut

11. On a boat or on a plane?
On a plane

12. Good food or good lovin?
Good Loving

13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom

14. Mac or PC?
PC

15. Big Bird or Elmo?
Elmo



Finish It

16. Everytime I think, I come up with a great idea

17. Once I lay down I get my sleep on.

18. Condoms ALWAYS

19. When I am stressed I try to relax and become still.

20. Theo A. Faulkner Get familiar !!!



BONUS: What is the craziest thing you’ve been told by a celeb that you’re styling? Nothing as yet! I will keep you posted… lol !!!


Read Theo's questions on our theme Stars on The Rise HERE

Theo's Official Site
Theo on Facebook

Not everyone can say they love their job, worse if they have two. For Leah Janine Marville, an international model, pageant title-holder, TV host/producer, and philanthropist, what's not to like? She gets to travel to exotic locations around the globe and meet interesting and influential personalities. When she is not rubbing shoulders with the hip and famous, she makes meaningful contributions to the lives of children affected by HIV/AIDS through her charitable efforts.

This woman of many talents was born on November 13th 1985 to Don Marville and Heather Gibson on the scenic Caribbean island of Barbados. Leah attended Erdiston Primary and Queens College high school, where and Rihanna and Leah were both charges of Leah's cousin Shontelle in the school's cadet corps.

Her journey to fame more than likely started during her childhood as she was creatively inclined and engaged in several activities; however, two events were pivotal in steering her towards the success she enjoys today. First, she was spotted by Saint International CEO Dewight Peters who encouraged her to take part in the Fashion Face of the Caribbean competition where she placed third. The other was meeting with the producers of the show Wicked Style at the BET awards in 2006.

After her Fashion Face debut, Leah was signed to South Africa's Base Model Management. It was there in 2008, while watching her fellow Barbadian Natalie Griffith place in the top 15 at the Miss World pageant, that Leah decided to enter her local pageant. Not only did she win the title of Miss Barbados World 2009, she won "Most Photogenic" and "Beauty With a Purpose".

She returned to South Africa to represent her country at the 59th staging of Miss World. Although she did not win (she placed 17th), Leah was voted People's Choice and as the highest placed Caribbean national she received the Caribbean Continental Queen of Beauty award. She is the first Barbadian to win both titles. Leah was voted Sexiest Woman Alive (2009) by the pageant world's premiere online magazine: GlobalBeauties.com. The Sexiest Woman is chosen from all the ladies (a total of 440) that entered the Big 5 pageants (Miss World, Miss Universe, Miss Earth, Miss Tourism Queen & Miss International). She also won the title of Sexiest in the Caribbean and she placed 9th for the title of Miss Grand Slam.

By the time she won her titles, Leah had joined the BET family as a guest host on BET J's Wicked Style in 2008, and then as main host and even co-producer. Leah now hosts and produces a new Caribbean lifestyle show on BET Centric (BET J & VH1 Soul) called SPLASH! She is executive producer of her own TV series, , Passport 246, aired on CBC TV8 (Barbados) which follows her life as a model and television personality. Leah has also produced and directed Young Exec s a show similar to The Apprentice where Richard Haynes (CEO of South Central Entertainment is the show's 'Donald Trump'. Leah is a TV favorite in Barbados and the region, but she is just as loved and acclaimed for her charity work on HIV/AIDS.


Entered as her Beauty with a Purpose project, The Love Campaign placed third in said category at the 2009 Miss World Pageant which was viewed by over 1 billion people world-wide. The campaign's slogan is "Don't Judge, Just Love: Abandon the Stigma." Leah has earned 2 national youth awards (Banyan and Humanitarian) for her work with The Love Campaign, which is officially endorsed by Prime Minister of Barbados David Thompson, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture. Having lost her father at the age of 11 her need to help children comes from a genuine place and the accolades are very much deserved. Over US$80,000 in cash and food donations have been raised so far for the the HIV food Bank and the National HIV commission school assistance programme. The Love Campaign has partnered with several Caribbean HIV charity organizations (Year of the child-Dominica, Martha's Home-Jamaica) and also an international group from the US which adopted the name for their own efforts in Kenya. Celebrities who have endorsed The Love Campaign include: Wyclef Jean, Eve, Kelly Rowland, Boyz II Men, Marlon Wayans, Usain Bolt and Beenie Man. Reggae-soul singer Cezar Cunningham, sang the campaign's theme song "These Three Letters" . In 2010 Leah launched The Love Campaign School Tour, through which entertainers travel across Barbados to secondary schools promoting the message of healthy lifestyles through music and under the theme "Respect Yaself".


At age 24, Leah Marville is undoubtedly Barbados' most successful model. She is signed to several agencies across the globe: Base Model Management in South Africa, East West Models in Germany and another in London. She also has modeling interests in Athens and China. Leah is one of the faces for Mega skin care line line NIVEA (print, billboard, TV &Internet) and has also done campaigns for Dunhill cigarettes and the American Swiss jewelry line. She has graced the pages of several major international magazines such as Elle, Cosmo, Marie Claire, Jamaque and She Caribbean. Leah has also walked at some of the region's premiere fashion events including Barbados Fashion Week, Style Week Jamaica and Dominicana Moda.


So she's Beauty With a Purpose, how about Brains and Beauty? Leah holds a bachelor's degree in Law (honours) from the University of the West Indies Cavehill. It was she who first started at the Human rights council of Jamaica, and had the opportunity of interview Morgan and Pratt the inmates who sentences were commuted to life imprisonment after a landmark privy council ruling that said inmates couldn't be on death row for more than 5 years. They define Caribbean law when it comes to death row. While pursuing her legal career in Jamaica, Leah also interned at prominent entertainment law firm Gordon McGrath. A freelance journalist, Leah has been published in Barbados Advocate, Jamaica Observer and Jamaica Gleaner.
Globe-Trotter, Children-Lover, Beauty With a Purpose-er (tryin' to rhyme...LOL) Leah Marville you are officially The Lime Certified!

Leah at Dominicana Moda

Q&A


1. You have traveled a lot since your Miss Barbados win and your new gig as host of SPLASH!. Any memorable experience you would like to share?
While on a catamaran in Dominica for a Splash feature on Year of the child, we had set out with the intention of participating in a whale watching experience which ended up not revealing any whales but equally delightful hundreds of dolphins! I’d never seen a dolphin before and it was absolutely breathtaking to see not just one but hundreds of them moving together in schools much like synchronized swimmers as if in a water ballet.


2. What’s your most recent splurge?
I just bought new furniture for my house.


3. Has dating become easier or harder since winning your title?
I have not been dating or trying to date.


4. Do you have a guilty pleasure?
Oh yes! Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate! I will drive distances at 2 am in the morning to get one.:), and to think, I'm supposedly lactose intolerant.


5. Do you have a good luck charm?
Not particularly. I usually say a prayer.


6. If you had to find a needle in a haystack how would you do it?
My first thought would be to hire a group of people to assist! I’d probably start at the top and work my way down, one straw at a time. Most things in life mimic this situation, the formula is the same.



7. What do you like the most about your Bajan heritage?
The most intriguing aspect of Bajan heritage is our importance and attention to academia. many other island cultures stress the creative. The island has a long list of academic achievers. The island offered free education from the day we gained independence in 1966 and Barbadians now have a reputation of highly educated individuals. As such, Barbadians are very driven, intellectually humourous and academically competitive.



8.If you could describe yourself as a household appliance what would you be and why?
I'd love to be one that could never grow outdated, one that is as standard as a spoon, always having having relevance and never require the need for electricity as my relevance should never be determined by an external input. As to the name of that appliance, it continues to elude me...have they made it yet...lol



9. Describe your perfect day?
I’d wake up in Cape Town, have breakfast on the balcony overlooking the Camps Bay, complete with Table Mountain looming behind me.Then, take a trip to the grape vineyards with a group of friends and watch a romantic comedy in the evening. Next, I'd entertain the thought of dinner, coupled with great conversation with a special somebody, on the docks at the Victoria Waterfront under the African Sky. And finally, go to sleep with the knowledge that I can wake up and do it all over again the following day.


10. What is your favorite:
Workout – yoga
Childhood book – Anne of Green Gables
Skin Care trick – hmm…I don’t have one of these
Fashion Week – Style Week Jamaica
Desert – Aside from Cadbury Chocolate, it would have to be a Strawberry Cheesecake!

Leah (in green) at Miss World 2009

Sexiest Woman Alive!!!

Go With Your Gut

11. Rooftop or basement?
Rooftop

12. Coffee or chocolate?
Chocolate, of course!

13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Hmm, my first thought was why not both. I’d prefer a balance of the two, knowledge without the guidance of wisdom, is counter productive.

14. Dogs or cats?
Dogs! Love them!

15. Board games or movies?
Movies

Leah working for SPLASH on location in Dominica (my island pretty doh???)

Leah hard at work interviewing Wyclef Jean at the 2009 BET Awards.

Finish It

16. My phone bills are too high. Need to fix that!

17. If I could compete in the X-Games I’d be a motorbike stunt rider!! That would be very uncharacteristic of me. Love it!

18. Condoms seem to be taboo in recent times and as such has become one of the mandates of my charity the Love Campaign; to ensure that the message about its use is reinforced.

19. On a Friday morning at 11:30 am of any given week, you could find me in a different country. Last week Friday I was in St.Lucia, the Friday before that Dominica, The Friday before that Trinidad... you catch my drift..this Friday its looking like New York

20. Leah Marville would like you to learn more about her and her charity The Love Campaign; visit www.leahmarvilleonline.com ;-)...i couldn't help this one lol


Click HERE to read Leah's responses questions based on the theme "Stars On The Rise."

Leah Marville on Facebook
Leah Marville Official Website

Please support Leah's The Love Campaign

Nicholas Bennett is a studio baby. The studio? Grafton Studios in Vineyard Town. The famous parent? His father, internationally-renowned songwriter and music producer, Mikey Bennett. It’s no surprise then that from an early age Nicholas encountered Jamaican Reggae stalwarts like Shabba Ranks, Maxi Priest and Beenie Man on the regular. Internationally renowned artists, such as Roberta Flack and Cyndi Lauper, have worked in the studio and of course he was there absorbing a wealth of information from these incredibly talented entertainers. Under the tutelage of his father, Nicky was encouraged to become a studio engineer; and over the years he developed a sound he calls R&D (Rhythm & Dancehall). It was a marriage between the Jamaican sounds of Reggae and Dancehall and American Pop and R&B. Artists such as R. Kelly, Marvin Gaye and Craig David stand out in his list of musical influences.

A year after leaving high school, his family’s home was destroyed by fire. Nicky B reflects, “ I didn’t want to do anything or see anyone.” The ordeal prompted him to reassess his life, and it was at that pivotal moment he decided to put aside his dream of becoming a chef and devote his time to working in the studio as an engineer. At a recording session with Beenie Man, 17 year-old Nicky hummed what was to become the hook on the track “This is What it Feels Like.” At the insistence of the King of Dancehall, the shy engineer acquiesced and recorded the hook. As they say, the rest is history. Nicky B was officially on the music scene and hasn’t looked back since.

After scoring a handful of hits in Jamaica the ‘Young Prince of Dancehall’ embarked on a five-city tour of Japan in 2004. “The audiences in Japan responded positively to my music. I felt good,” he relates. “I knew that I was on to something and this made me feel I was heading in the right direction.” No doubt, even Japanese Kickboxer Yassuhiro Kido is a fan. In his K-1 World Max match on April 21st 2009 versus South Korea’s Soo Hwan Lee, he entered the arena to Beenie Man’s “King of the Dancehall and Nicky B’s “Wanna Be Your Man (All I Want)”. How serendipitous, the King and Young Prince of Dancehall together again! (See it HERE, Nicky B comes on at 2:26)

Nicky B has shared the stage with Lil Zane, and Kanye West –thanks to his sister, music video director Kimala Bennett. Back in 2007 he entertained 50,000 screaming fans at Germany’s Summerjam, and to date has performed at a number of events in Jamaica. I was on hand to see him at Tarrus Riley and Friends in Dec 2009 where he shared the stage with Reggae music’s current stars like Chino McGregor, I-Octane, Queen Ifrica and Duane Stephenson and legends like Freddie McGregor and Jimmy Riley.

Over the years, Nicky B has been featured on some of Dancehall’s most catchy and popular riddims including DreamWeaver Riddm ("The Way We Roll") Mad Guitar Riddm (“She Nuh Ready Yet”), Chiney K Riddim (“High”), Chandelier Riddm ("Rain or Fall”), Bubble Up Riddim (“Wanna Be Your Man”), Golden Gate Riddim (“Anybody Out There”), Guardian Angel Riddim (Best Friends) , Pelaean Riddm (“Ready for Love”), European Swing Riddim (“Single Ladies”), Fitz Riddim (“Ms. Nuclear”) Thrilla Riddim (“Stop My Flo”), and Higher Octane Riddim (“Give It Away” with Shane-O). I couldn’t help but list so many…as one person commented on his you tube video’s respect for nicky, always choosing the best riddims and makin amazing musique.

Oh la, la; and speaking of la musique, you should know that being from l’ile de la Dominique, land of cadance and World Creole Music Festival, I just fell in love with his sound when I heard Nicky singing on a zouk love riddim. Listen the song “Let The Music” (see video below) and you just might. He has collaborated on other zouk love songs like “For Real” with Samantha Nourry, and “Rude Bwoy Love” with Naelle. He even hasFrench Pop ("Hypnotise" with Parisa), Kompa (“Give You Love”) and French Lovers Rock (“Never Leave” with Goldee) songs in his repertoire. Nicky B has added his unique R&D flavour to songs by notable French Dancehall artists like Fefe Typical, (“Baby Girl”), Lord Kossity (Stand Up”, “Hotel Room”, Gangsta Girl) Fenomen 10 Gla (“Dirty Wine”) and Zorro Chang (“If You Came”) ensuring a wide fan base in the French speaking world and that of non-French speakers who just like the music. Someone commented on You Tube: his voice is soooo freaking sexxyyy lol...is he haitian???? I guess he could take that as a compliment huh.

Though the songs on his current R&D project were recorded in various cities around the world (Paris, Belgium, Los Angeles, Kingston) one theme remains the same, “I’m a hopeless romantic so a lot of the songs are about love and the enjoyment of life. Women relate to my lyrics. I write what they want to hear from men.” Number one song on my list is “Sweet Little Addiction” produced by Konvict (as in Akon’s Konvict??? Yes the very)--Peep the video below.

“Computer Love”, “ “Forever” (Forever Riddim), “I Only Want to Love You”, and “Care About You” are songs clearly written for the ladies. And they show him mad love online: nicky b's voice is sooo melodic... u have to love anything he sings... wow!, hee'sss soooo sexiiii..i wanna meet him..and his voice is amazing; Man dis dude is wicked n wicked sexy LOL!!!!!!; sikkkkkkkkkkkkk i juss found this man out rite now and im lovein hez tunez

He doesn’t even have to be at a concert to hear the frenzied yelling of hundreds of admiring fans. I witnessed that when he came to UWI for this interview and I heard students screaming his name. “OMG is that Niky B???” (loud screams, loud screams, pause to go tell their friends, more screaming.) That was a trip. LOL. I guess he’s used to that. He was kind, gracious, open, funny, and overall just really pleasant. If this is how he is in the studio, no doubt he’s a producer’s dream: creative and easy to work with.

2010 looks great so far. Nicky B has collaborated with Chino, Laden, Chedda and Konshens on the Genius-produced “Fresh To Death”. His songs “Dance Like We’re Making Love/Suga Dumplin” , “Every Gal” (on the Russian’s G-Go Club Riddim), and “Try My Love” with Assassin AKA Agent Sasco are on frequent rotation on Jamaican radio.

Through not a culinary school graduate, Nicky B’s a chef of a different sort -cooking up mega hits in the studio. Pick a Nicky B song at random and most people have this to say: “da song ya bod!” Skibbi-di-boom-bang-beng. Nicky, take it to the world!

Hit maker, R&D Master, Girls dem like ya…Nicky B you are officially The Lime certified!





Q&A

1. Who is your dream collaboration with?
R. Kelly- because I think he’s the best songwriter and R&B man in the world.



2. If you could describe yourself as a tree which would you be and why?
Probably a coconut tree cause they’re very tall so I could see what's going on around me. Plus, if I doh like somebody and they were directly underneath me I could just make my coconut drop on their head (ah joke…)



3. If you could take up any extreme sport, what would you choose and why?
Boxing….always wanted to do it.



4. Describe an ideal date with Nicky B?
Very, very quiet. I love candles and tranquility, so the area would be a real quiet and cozy place like Strawberry Hill --with candlelight, some nice jazz, massage, cook a nice meal cause I am de big chef…



5. What song describes your life right now?
“Hustle Hard” is a new song of mine. Produced by my little brother, it speaks about my entire life- coming up and dealing with misconceptions of the world. A lot of people believe that there is this road nice and paved because of my father. In the song I sing about how people think I’m born with a golden spoon in my mouth but never talk about how I lost my house and was left with one boxer, and rose from all of that to entertain people today. It talks about how I lost my adopted brother. It’s a very, very deep song. I actually shed a lot of tears writing it. It was the first time I was ever happy and sad all at once.



6. Is there any place you haven’t been that you'd like to visit for the first time?
Puerto Rico.



7. What are your goals for the next five years?
Running a very successful record label and have a couple Grammy's under my belt.



8. What do you find most appealing about the opposite sex?
How different but similar we are.



9. Do you have a morning routine?
Well, when I do wake up...(laugh) Um, getup, wash mi face, brush mi teeth, you know the typical stuff, I don’t go outside and greet the sunshine and feed the birds and all that. Simple. Wash face, brush teeth, eat, tv. That’s it.



10. What is your favorite:
Cologne-Angel for men
Snack food-Coconut cookies
Book-DaVinci Code
Alcoholic beverage-Hennessy on the rocks.
Beauty product-Bed Bath &Beyond shower gels.




Go With Your Gut

11. Blackberry or iPhone?
Blackberry

12. Red or purple?
Purple

13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom

14. Denyque or Makeida?
DEFINITELY Denyque

15. Kingston or MoBay?
Kingston





Finish It

16. When I see a girl I like I get goofy.

17. Sometimes its good to just stay home and do nothing.

18. Condoms.Durex.Tropical.

19. If I had superhuman powers it would be to walk through walls.

20. Nicky B


Click HERE to read about Nicky B's journey to success as a "Star on the Rise!"

myspace.com/nickybja
Nicky B on Facebook


Listen to Nicky B's latest three singles: "Dance Like We're Making Love/Suga Dumplin", Try My Love" feat Assassin AKA Agent Sasco and "Every Gal"


Watch Nicky B on his journey to the top!




A MUST FOR THE LADIES!!!!! All night long all night/till the early morning is it all right/ all night long all night/ I give you just what you like/




Let The Music -a likkle zouk love.....he's so versitile!



Desolee, mais je ne pouvais pas resiste (Sorry, I couldn't help it) I love Konpa!!!

Being born with a gift is one thing. Recognizing and utilizing that gift to it’s full potential is another. That's just what Duane "D-Wayne" Howard is doing with his natural ability to manipulate word and sound with the parting of his lips. Ok. Well, the movement of his tongue, and vibrations of his voice box, and the expansion of his lungs and diaphragm....but let's not get technical here...lol. Duane was born in Brooklyn, New York to Jamaican parents on October 9th 1988. He demonstrated a talent for playing the drums and singing at age six. But it was football that was his main focus growing up. Music was always a part of his life though, and with roots planted firmly in Jamaica, Reggae was always in the mix.

Duane was inspired musically by the likes of Bob Marley and Stevie Wonder, surely a reflection of his American and Jamaican influence and culture. His parents have influenced his spiritual side by being examples that he has learned from, as he makes his journey to the top. His siblings and cousins have also contributed to his emotional side and all these influences come together to inspire his lyrics and melody.

As they say, variety is the spice of life and Duane was blessed with all the elements that make for a well- rounded artist. He is a versatile performer capable of captivating any audience with his electric brand of hip-hop, his smooth infectious brand of reggae and his sensual brand of R&B. Duane started singing in Church and eventually performed at talent shows, and school concerts. He has worked with producers such as Ed Robinson in New York, and Dr. Marshall in Jamaica.

Knowing the strength of his talent, Duane has declined requests by producers that he relegate himself to one genre. He does not want to be put in a box- a one-trick pony. Duane does not want to be known as Duane Howard the pop singer, or Duane Howard the R&B singer. No. He is Duane Howard the artist.

On and off stage, Duane is an extrovert exuding a warm personality and engaging smile. He sees himself as an approachable guy that can hang with just about anyone. Maybe that's why for him, his music is a personal connection between himself and his fans. After all he is offering them his life, his experiences, his story. Duane wants his music to be viewed as a coalescence of various experiences, times, emotions and moods that will pull on heartstrings of whoever is listening.

I'm listening. Are you??? Take some time to listen to his songs "I Just Wanna Dance" and "Towers (Make Love) below. Watch is video for "How She Like It" feat. Jr. Kelly.

Versitile singer, former footballer ....Duane Howard you are officially The Lime certified!


Q&A

1. Have you ever had a broken heart?
Oh hell yea, lol. Only once though , my heart never healed-it's still broken.


2. What video game character would you be if you could and why?
I’d want to be spider man, so I could make love on the towers; I always dreamed about that lol.


3. Do you have a guilty pleasure?
No.


4. If you could have dinner with any three people who would you pick and why?
Martin Luther King , Bob Marley and George Washington only because I need some answers.


5. Ever had an embarrassing moment in public?
No.


6. What is the most hi-tech gadget you own?
I own an x-box 360.


7. What is the craziest thing you’ve done for the opposite sex?
I drove four hours to see her for an hour. Yes, I'm very romantic ladies.


8. What gets you through a rough day?
When I'm having a rough day I whisper to my Friend upstairs and then everything is usually o.k.


9. If you could describe yourself as a household appliance what would you be and why?
I would be a television because I'm very entertaining lol.


10. What is your favorite:
season-spring
cologne-im wearing Sean John right now so that’s my favorite cologne
ice-cream flavor-Grapenut!
city-NYC
fast food-I don’t eat fastfood. I'm a workout freak. lol.



Go With Your Gut


11. Pageant or fashion show?
Any regular guy would chose a pageant, but I'm different ladies. I'll go with you to the fashion show.

12. Good food or good lovin?
Who needs to eat when your getting good love?

13. Blue or yellow?
I'm a man I gotta chose blue.

14. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom comes with experience and im pretty experienced (wink wink)

15. Mac or PC?
I'm a mac and she's a PC; she lives in my lap.




Finish It

16. No one knows that I'm a pastor's son.

17. When I see a girl I like I examine her features and tell her about them.

18. Condoms saved me from a lot of sh*t.

19. I feel at peace when im laying in my bed.

20. Duane Howard is the future so get ready to roll ,he’s racing his self so all he gotta do is stroll.


Click HERE to see what Daune say's about success and his journey to the top!

myspace.com/duanehowardmusic
Duane on Facebook

Listen to "I Just Wanna Dance" and "Towers (Make Love)


"How She Like It" Duane Howard feat. Jr. Kelly