He said he’s an observer. He doesn’t speak much. He’s right. As he leans against the trunk of his Mercedes-Benz, the long chain dazzles, the blinged-out watch glitters as the night-lights dance on its wide face. Sporting a graphic tee and designer jeans topped off with a baseball cap slanting just so, Daniel “Chino” McGregor lets his confidence do the talking. His lyrical prowess belies his quiet and well-mannered nature. A son of Reggae royalty, a winner of awards recognizing his contributions to Reggae, and an artist with regular rotation on Jamaican entertainment television and radio, you almost expect him to be a diva.
Born on February 12th 1983, Daniel “Chino” McGregor was destined for a life in music. With Reggae legends such as the late Dennis Brown, Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt and Gregory Isaac; as well as Dancehall heavyweights like Bounty Killa and Beenie Man making regular stops at his father’s Big Ship Studio, he absorbed a wealth of information; the fruits of which are quite visible today. At age nine he joined Vaz Preparatory School Choir and two years later performed at Jamaica House for guests including then Prime Minister PJ Patterson. His career officially began when he was asked by Bryan (brother of Papa San) to contribute a rap verse to the song “Joy”. Two collaborations with Kiprich followed: “Leggo Di Bwoy” and “Gimmi Di Gyal.” The former rose to the top of local charts and enjoyed heavy video rotation and radio airplay both in Jamaica and abroad. By the time he left Wolmer’s High School Chino added Selector to his list of talents as he played for the sound System Omega Disco. After graduation he gained experience in the USA where he worked with Slip N Slide Records, home to artistes such as Trina and Trick Daddy.
Chino has performed at major shows such as Irie Jamboree, Rototom Sunsplash, Sean Kingston Coke Zero Concert, and well as award shows including Youth View Awards and EME Awards in 2010. He has been featured in a National Geographic documentary called 'The Music Nomad - Made in Jamaica' which explored Jamaican music and culture. Even the New York Times took notice of the combined talents of Chino, his brother Stephen, his sister Shema and the 'Captain' his father Freddie McGregor. With them he has toured metropolitan US cities such as New York and Miami, countries such as the UK, France and Germany, Italy, Japan, Gambia and of course several islands the region including Bermuda and the US Virgin Islands.
As a writer, singer, rapper, DJ, producer, and instrumentalist (he plays guitar, bass, piano and drums) Chino is truly a well-rounded musician. He has written, co-written and produced tracks for artists such as Da’Villle, TOK, Wayne Marshall, Elephant Man, Kiprich, Delly Ranx and of course his father, Freddie McGregor. A major milestone in his career was a collaboration with his father “There’s a Reward For Me”on the Grammy-nominated album Anything for you. And the hits keep coming: “ Girls Dem Straight” (produced by Kurt Riley for the Worthington project) was a favorite amongst the females, Buss It Pon Dem” (on the Cartoon Riddim), “ Inna di Club”(on the 12 gauge riddim-H20 productions),”Redbull And Guiness” and “Ghetto Whisky” both featured Delly Ranx, “Formula,” ”Do So Fah” (breaking news riddim) and Gyal Ting( Roach’s Mad Ting riddim) earned him widespread popularity in the industry. Some of his more recent hits include "Forgive Me" (New Chapter Riddim), "Call We Name" (JukeBox Riddim) "Me and You (Secret) with Alaine "Protected," "Pon Your Head,” “From Mawnin”. "Telephone Gallis" on the Boops Riddim. Find It Hard with Dean Fraser ,"In the Street" (Bad People Riddim) are his latest hits for 2010.
And though were only in the second month of the year, it has been a great run thus far. His sponsor Coke Zero put on a massive show in January with Chino being one of the major acts of the evening. He was nominated for 'Breakthrough Artiste of the Year' (which he won), 'Singjay of the Year' and 'Most Improved Artiste of the Year' at the Excellence in Music and Entertainmen (EME) Awards where he also performed. The following day hosted the Youth View Awards (YVA's) along with Lady Rennae and Teyanna Taylor. He was nominated for Male Artiste of the Year' and his mega hit "From Mawnin" was nominated for Song of the Year-Dancehall. He walked away with the award fro 'Young Hot & Hype Male Artiste of the Year!
Young Hot and Hype indeed, Chino knows how to get listeners dancing to his songs. His catchy lyrics over Stephens hypnotizing beats are a definite crowd-pleaser.
Introverted artiste, lyrical stylist, Chino you are The Lime Certified!
Q&A
1. What is the one thing you have done for a friend without being asked?
Without being asked? Hmm, I do good things, like every day…without being asked, That’s my natural personality. Always helping people, always giving people good advice, always teaching people. It’s not really an extra effort, like I have to go out my way and help somebody.
2. If you could describe yourself as a household appliance what would you be and why?
Wow what a question, (laugh)…I guess anything that’s musical. So I would assume a kettle for example, cause it whistles and sings when it gets hot and bubbly.
3. Can you describe your ideal woman and have you met her?
I don’t think there is such a thing as an ideal woman, or a perfect woman—that’s kind of a toughie, honestly. Cause there might be certain things you find in this woman that you really dig, but she is lacking other stuff. There might be these stuff that are lacking in this woman that you find in another woman but she is also lacking those other stuff. Me personally, I have never come across that completely 100% perfect woman that has all these perfect qualities.
4. If you were are tree what would you be?
I would love to say a marijuana tree (but people would pick you, and smoke you), Well, any other tree people would pick you and do stuff to you. (so that…) Am I allowed to say that, I don’t know?? (yeah it’s whatever you’re comfortable with)..Yah, I’ll stick with that.
5. Can you list three things that make you feel sexy?
Sexy? (yeah) Fine clothes-fitted, Italian preferably, nice cologne )I’m a cologne freak, umm just being properly groomed-fresh from the spa
6. Name one place that you haven’t visited but would like to and why?
I’d love to visit Egypt, for historical reasons. I’m very deep and the whole Biblical aspect of Egypt and Ethiopia.
7. What did you do yesterday?
What did I do yesterday??? Wow…umm I recorded. Took care of my business in the streets.
8. If you could walk in the footsteps of anyone who would it be and why?
If I could. If I could…ummm that’s a tough question, cause as much as you emulate those before you, admire and respect those before you, you need your own identity. Its always important to observe those before you and learn from their mistakes and I think that helps you to become a man and your own man, and your own individual so I’m not really keen on walking in the shoes. Bob Marley’s the greatest, he’s the King but he made mistakes. As great as he Micheal Jackson the King of Pop he made mistakes.We have to learn from him; and a lot of those that came before us.
9. If you had to do a song with two people from any genre who would you want to collaborate with?
Amy Winehouse and Stevie Wonder
10. What are your favorites?
Cologne-Valentino
Sport- football
female actress-Gabrielle Union
ice-cream flavour-rum and raisin
Go With Your Gut
11. Kingston or Mobay?
Kingston
12. Blue or yellow?
Blue
13. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom
14. Great legs or soft lips (on a woman)?
The whole woman
15. Big bird or Elmo?
Not a Sesame St. fan, but if I had to-Big Bird
Finish It
16. I love spending time with my daughter, every moment I get. I wouldn’t want to miss a minute
17. Condoms should be used
18. In a woman a great sense of humor makes up for not being able to cook
19. Everyday I give thanks for my blessings
20. Chino is musical
BONUS
Ever waxed?
Hell naw!!!
Ever saved MSN chats?
Yea, but not much any more. Too busy.
myspace.com/chinomcgregor
Chino on Facebook
"Forgive Me" On The New Chapter Riddim produced by Stephen "Di Genius" McGregor
Official video Fom Mawnin (Never change)"
When you are known on a first-name basis in households around the world, it's safe to say that you're some-kind-of famous--Angelina, Kanye, Reese, Paris, Mary, Jen (no not JLo) all share that commonality. In the world of Reggae it's no different. We have our Bob, our Dennis, our Marcia and of course our Freddie. As you will see very shortly, fame has not gone to his head, nor has it worn him down. Freddie Mcgregor's musical flame is as strong as ever and even more so now that his children are blazing their own musical trails. But more of that later. Let's start at the beginning.
Internationally-acclaimed, Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and producer, Freddie McGregor boasts a lengthy career that started all the way back in the 1960s, when he was just seven years old. In 1963 he joined with Ernest Wilson and Peter Austin to form The Clarendonians, and began to record for the Studio One label. McGregor worked with producer Niney the Observer during the late 1970s and early 1980s, and others including Junjo Lawes, Linval Thompson, and Gussie Clarke.
Influenced by the sounds of Stevie Wonder, the legendary Bob Marley, Alton Ellis, Ken Boothe, Bob Andy and many others, Freddie finessed his talent with early tracks like "Why Did You Do It" and "Do Good and Good Will Follow You." In the mid-sixties he teamed up with Ernest "Fitzroy" Wilson to form the duo Freddie and Fitzroy while he continued to develop his craft. In 1975, Freddie's musical and lyrical content changed with a strong slant towards lyrics of social consciousness with tunes like "Mark of the Beast," "I Am A Rasta" and reggae classic "Bobby Babylon." In 1977 Freddie released his long awaited album Mr. McGregor, which contained reggae mainstays such as "Zion Chant," "Rastaman Chant" and "Walls of Jericho." This album marked a major milestone in his stellar career and in 1981 his tune "Big Ship" became one of reggae's biggest hits, earning him a permanent place in reggae music history.
Equally at home in lovers rock or roots & culture, this unstoppable wonder boasts many hits like "Push Come to Shove," "Africa Here I Come," "Just Don't Want to Be Lonely," "I Was Born A Winner," "Guantanamera," his signature "Big Ship"; "Lock Dem’ Down" and "Bangarang," which were both chart topping #1 hits from his Comin' in Tough.
In 1989, Freddie launched his own record label, Big Ship, featuring Jamaica Classics Volume One as the first major release. Part of this compilation included popular tunes like Little Roy's "Prophecy" and Derrick Harriot's "The Loser." Today, Big Ship is the largest and most recognized reggae label in Japan handling its own production, manufacturing, distribution and promotions. To date, Big Ship has produced several reggae artists including General Degree, Cutty Ranks, Mikey Spice, Benjy Myaz and Freddie’s daughter Yeshemabeth. His album entitled Anything For You featuring the songs "Uncle Sam," "I See It In You" and "Anything for You," was nominated for a Grammy. Recently Freddie produced the historic Super Stars Extravaganza DVD, highlighting rare concert footage from the 1989 Denbigh Show Ground (May Pen, Clarendon, Jamaica). The DVD features live performances by the great Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Cocoa Tea, Barrington Levy, Frankie Paul, Carlene Davis and the legendary Tamlins.
Over the years, Freddie has consistently “given back” to the community in many ways. He produces his own concert entitled RockSteady Meets Reggae, which promotes unity within the reggae fraternity. He also donates to charities throughout the world and manages his own US and England based children's organizations; Big Ship Foundation Inc. and the Freddie McGregor Children’s Fund, both of which provide services and funding to renovate schools.
Freddie McGregor continues to please reggae fans and music lovers throughout the world headlining international concerts and venues including Poland's Blue Note, Japan's Jumping Splash, Reggae Sunsplash (Clapham Common), the Cartegena Festival (Colombia), Midem (France), the Jamaican Expo (performing for Nelson Mandela and Prince Charles), the London Hammersmith Apollo - performing with John Holt and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Annual Caribbean Tourism Week (NYC) and many others. On August 8, 2003, Jamaica's Prime Minister, P.J. Patterson, honored Freddie with the prestigious Jamaican Order of Distinction in recognition of his contribution to Jamaica’s music and culture. His popular tune, "Lovers Rock," was featured in the critically acclaimed HBO exclusive Disappearing Acts and Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater saluted Freddie with the honor of being an Apollo Living Legend. Freddie McGregor is currently the chairman of Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA).
McGregor has spanned nearly every stylistic shift in Jamaican music, from ska and rocksteady to Rastafarian roots reggae to lovers rock (his particular specialty) to dabblings in dancehall, ragga, and dub. Now it's time for Reggae Pop and through his son's Daniel (AKA Chino) and Stephen (AKA Di Genius) Big Ship is becoming the hit-maker in contemporary Reggae. Popular artists like Sean Paul, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, Bramma, Alaine, Laden and many others have sung on Big Ship produced records, many of which become radio favorites. Freddie is still the captain though, and plans to steer it with a steady grasp wherever the music takes him.
Generous giver, youthful entertainer, it-seem like-you're-a-good-father-who-train-your- children-right-cause-they-so-nice-an- mannerful-and friendlyand-ting--ummm-er (:-) Freddie McGregor you are The Lime certified!
Q&A
1. Can you name one place you’ve never visited but would like to and why?
Yea. You know say me waan go Israel. It has so much spiritual relevance to my thoughts and beliefs and there are some things I would love to clarify for myself.
2. You’ve been in the industry for decades; do you see yourself calling it quits any time soon?
No. Music is something you can’t quit. If it choose you, you can’t quit. In music many are called few are chosen. If you are chosen you can’t quit. I think I was chosen to do this—I’ve been doing it since I was seven and I ‘m still doing it. So there’s no quitting just go on till you can’t go on any more.
3. Ever been star struck? Who was the celeb?
I can’t remember ever being…I’m trying to think back to my early days. But no, not really. When I became signed to Polydore we had people ah open limousine everyday it didn’t really dawn on me that I was a star-- that I could have taken the praise for things like having top 10 singles in England at the time. We did top of the pops, just about all the major television programmes. But, I think if you are originally a grounded person you’re gonna stay humble. Some people get excited about what is happening and oftentimes get carried away, some people manage to stay grounded. Bob Marley did that and I am a big fan and admire him in many more ways than one. One of the things that I learned from Bob was the seriousness of not just the music, but the business and being able to have the control necessary to run an operation. It was through that determination and knowledge that I managed to set up Big Ship.
4. What do you like most about yourself?
About myself??? Oh my what a ting. What me love most bout myself??? The ting weh mi love most bout myself is to be able to give. Yeah, and it look like a ting with music and certain artists. As I say that mi reflect pon Dennis Brown. He give till him give away everyting—all himself. I love to give. I love people—that was always my ting. As a youth growing up it was very difficult. Half the times you see a long line of people outside a Mr Cox studio waiting for an audition. This man don’t sound real good and they tell him to come back inna three months time and him just leave and you can see pon him face that him a come back inna three months time. A next one they say come back a two weeks; and the next you wait over there so. And you just watch that kind of situation a gwan, I was fortunate to not have to go through that and mi realize say need to help some people who less fortunate and don’t’ have the opportunity to go to some of the more fancy studios to get a break. Jjust maybe we might be able to help some people get a different life or make a difference inna dem life. So far we are doing that. You can just look around and you see a Mavado, Elephant Man, Sean Paul, Kartel—all the artists that we’ve worked with, there’s a difference with them today as opposed to when they just started as a result of being able to walk through here freely and come get them stuff done- which make them become more famous (told him he’s getting it back) ya man, pure blessings! Look here, see the youts a par around that’s how we get our blessings. I believe the more you give, the more you get, and that has been my experience and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
5. If you could have dinner with any three people describe the moment?
I would like to have dinner with the president of the United States, Barack Obama to address the issue of deportation. The simple question I would like to ask Mr. Obama is why no country is allowed to deport a US citizen while the US is allowed to deport any person or persons from a different country. Doesn’t make sense to me so I’d like to take him up on that one.
Queen Elizabeth- me woulda just love talk to her about her meeting with His Imperial Majesty and what commitment she made as far as repatriation and the African Diaspora and if that is something she still upholds and if one day in the near future we might get the assistance promised to us.
Dada Mandela- I would just love to sit down with him, cook him a nice meal and just ask him if he could tell me what it was like during those years in prison. The cause-we understand that already, that’s why we love him so dearly; but if him coulda just share some of his experiences with me that would just set my life straight!
6. What do you like to do when you are alone?
I love a quiet surrounding, cause it makes me think. Two things I love other than music is fishing and horse racing. I guess the horse racing gives me a thrill that releases the tension. As an entertainer and creator, mi love a nice clean meditation and mi love fishing for the meditation that it brings. So racing kinda gives you that excitement, that adrenaline rush and fishing—if you’ve never been fishing before the first time you catch a nice fish pon your line you not going waan stop fish. More than just the feel is the meditation. You have to throw that line and diligently wait for the fish to come and take it up. So during the time that you wait so many things come on your mind. Mi write a few songs waiting for fish. I love fishing dearly.
7. What did you do to celebrate on your last birthday?
I didn’t do anything. I doh remember. Where was I on my last birthday? I doh remember you know. The last birthday mi had, mi tink de yout dem did keep party for me. Umm, I am kind of past that you know? Sometimes dem force it, and you know you just roll with it. I don’t so much look forward to my birthday. I look forward to my yout dem birthday. I look forward to celebrating with them. I’ve gone through nuff birthdays.
8. What’s the craziest thing you’ve done for someone of the opposite sex?
I dunno if it really crazy, but I got married because of love..yeah that’s a cool one.
9. What is your most used word or phrase?
'Getting’ it done' or 'get it done.'
10. What are your favorite:
non-Caribbean city—London
dish—(laughs) dumpling ackee and susumber
movie—Natural Born Killers
sport—basketball
colour—purple
Freddie (representing JARIa) with Babsy Grange and other govt representatives (pic courtesy JARIa.org)
Go With Your Gut
11. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom is good eno, because I think through wisdom you will gain the knowledge and the understanding fi move forward
12. Hot tub or hot spring?
Hot spring
13. Good food or good lovin?
Both (laugh)
14. Morning or evening?
I love evenings especially for the cool breeze.
15. Breast or booty?
Breast
Finish It
16. Women are gorgeous
17. You wouldn’t believe this but I love cooking.
18. I love it when people love one another.
19. Condoms should be a must.
20. Freddie McGregor is a God-blessed person.
BONUS
In 20 years I hope I am still recording, doing shows here and there and hopefully managing some of the younger talent that we produce.
If I had to do it all over again but not as a singer, I would be an athlete- a jockey.
click HERE to read Freddie's Reggae Month Questions
freddiemcgregor.com
myspace.com/bigshipinc
JARIA.org
"Take Your Time" on the New Chapter Riddm produced by Stephen "Di Genius" McGregor
I was Born a Winner"
"Push Come To Shove"
Performing "Big Ship" live
Young, Beautiful and Talented with an effervescent personality lives by the quote: “Quod Me Nutrit Me Destruit” which is Latin for [What Nourishes Me also Destroys Me]; firmly believes that whatever brings you happiness can also cause you pain. At 21 years old this singer/songwriter has reached a level of maturity that is far beyond her years; and with distinctive innate talent that is undisputedly one of Jamaica’s finest, is determined to take her place in music history.
She is fluent in french and will say with modesty she speaks just a “little” Spanish.
A straight “A” student she was awarded a scholarship to the prestigious Belair High School in Mandeville, Jamaica. Graduating with honours she couldn’t resist her calling to music and decided to follow her passion. She turned down the many opportunities of tertiary scholarships to chase her childhood dream.
Sanjay Pennant [Freeze Productions] and later on Rashard Marshall teamed with Denyque to assist with promotions but it was the union with Brian McLaughlin of Rockwildaz Entertainment in 2006 that created the ultimate marketing team, and is today, her international marketing agent.
It was however under the Arrows management that she got her first hit single “Can’t Breathe” which was produced by her then Manager and Producer, Phillip [Junior Arrows] Linton & her Musical Director, Nigel Staff.
She severed her management ties with Arrows in July 2009 and spent the next few months just recording for various producers, and seeking new management.
One meeting with Jade Lee of CEO of Jade Promotions in October 2009, whom herself relaunched in September 2009 immediately sealed a management deal.
“Incredible vibe, great chemistry! I can safely say for the first time I feel completely secure as an individual and as an artiste”, Denyque admitted.
I guess the career moves have paid off as in 2009 she became the voice and face of Wray & Nephew Rum Cream's audio & print advertisements. She is also the face of Yahdie Conscious Clothing Line. Denyque performed at Hilton K.I.D.S Telethon 2009, Official World AIDS Day events in Jamaica and she wrapped up the year with performances at Usain Bolt's Celebrity Party Reception, as well as Asafa Powell's Night On The Tracks and STING (yes, THE Sting). This year Denyque has already made appearances at the Excellence in Music (EME) awards, performed at the Youth View Awardsr where she was given the award for Team of the Year which she presented. Although the award for Favourite New Artiste went to G-Whizz & Merital Family, it was later determined that she won that award by over 1,000 votes. As Jay-Z said "numbers don't lie" so put that in your pipe and smoke it, eh. Of the many performances under her belt of note are her stints at Red Bull Street Style, as well as Bob Marley One Love CelebOlympics & Football Match for Charity 2010. BTW she finished first place in the female 100m...Dang girl, what can't you do???
I am really lovin her "Oh So Good" (Equinoxx) single and my second favorite is "Pieces" (Don Corleone) but don't let me make the decision for you. Listen to her other songs "Can't Breathe" (Arrows) and "That Place" (Don Corleone)
Don't slip on this shining star, Denyque Dontre is definitely soaring to new heights.
As she says: "To the Stars through Music"
[♫ = ♥]
Philosophical crooner, language lover, musical switcherupper (lol) ...Denyque you are The Lime certified!
Q&A
1. How did you get into the industry and what would you say was your first major break?
I started out with Arrows Recording where I recorded my first song Can't Breathe & it was from there things started picking up. Went in the studio with Don Corleon & made two beautiful tracks then I think people really started noticing me as an artiste when I did a song called “Oh So Good” with Equiknoxx Musiq released earlier this year.
2. Ever been star-struck? Who was the celeb?
Naa not yet.
3. What are the 3 things you must have in your purse at all times?
Blackberry. Money. Hand Sanitizer.
4. Your dream collaboration. Who is it with?
I have too many! Hmm.. I'd say with either Keri Hilson.. Lil Wayne.. Nicki Minaj or Usher.
5. What is always on your bedside table?
Water or Cranwater.
6. If you could describe yourself as a household appliance, what would you be and why?
Woow. I've never ever thought about this. I'd probably be an electronic kettle; I get boiled up easily. Haha.
7. What is the worst pick up line a guy has ever given you?
“Baby I wanna be in your life like Jesus.” - Lol I'll never forget it.
8. If you had 5 hours to spend in your favorite city where would you go and what would you do?
Paris! » Shopping!
9. What are the top 3 things you dream about?
Happiness.. Fortune & Success.
10. What are your favorite:
thing to wear to bed-My stewie PJs & pirate socks :)
male actor-Johnny Depp & Jason Statham
snack-Oreos (though I'm now banned)
sport-tennis & football (soccer)
animal-Dogs & Tigers
Go With Your Gut
11. Stilettos or wedges?
Stilettos.. Wedges.. Flats | I love shoes <3 style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">12. Knowledge or wisdom?
Definitely both!
13. Kingston or Mobay?
MoBayy = Beach but loove Kingston same way.
14. Text or email?
Both!
15. Chino or Chris Martin(who has more sex appeal)?
- Chris Martin (no offense to Chino!)
Finish It
16. In 10 years I'll be old :S
17. I am weak for Tim Burton movies.
18. Condoms must be used at all times; during sex i.e.
19. If I had super human powers I'd definitely use them for the betterment of myself & others.
20. Denyque; write it in the stars :)
Click HERE to read Denyque's Reggae Month questions
myspace.com/denyque
facebook.com/denyque
Listen to "Pieces" and "Oh So Good"
I first heard Paul "Lymie" Murray singing at Cell Block studio in Kingston Jamaica. He was giving direction to a singer in the studio-- ad-libbing and doing runs like you wouldn't believe. Of course the main thing that stuck in my mind was him comparing the connection between the song and the audience to the act of lovemaking. " The song must have a climax!" "You have to give the DJ a reason to keep playing your song!" And you know hearing the name Lymie reminded me of one very special website (wink wink, LOL). So it was unlikely that I would forget him. That first instance was just a taste really, a mere droplet of sound and charisma that I would soon see in full effect not long after. Lymie totally wowed me, as well as a slew of admirers (especially of the female kind LOL), at the 2010 Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival's talent stage in Greenfield Stadium. To say he is like Teddy Pendergrass or even Maxwell with dreads is such an oversimplification of the talent that is Lymie, but its a start.
Born October 24th in the community of Royal Flat in the parish of Manchester, Jamaica, the same parish, which graced us with Luciano, Tony Rebel and the unforgettable Garnett Silk, Lymie's musical career began with performances at church, school concerts, private parties, weddings and other social events from as early as age seven. His musical influences include international artists like Al Green, Marvin Gaye, James Ingram and Jeffrey Osbourne, as well as Jamaican ballad and lovers rock specialists such as Beres Hammond, Maxi Priest and Dennis Brown.
Lymie attended Decarteret and Knox College where he studied Business Management, before leaving for Kingston to begin what he terms; ‘the nine to five experience’ which spanned a total of two and half years, during which time he was introduced to producer Desmond ‘Shangul’ Lawson who produced his debut single "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head" and who also co-produced with Dalton Brownie, Lymie’s debut album Happy Days. In 1993 Lymie began singing with a band call SKOOL led by former Chalice drummer Desi Jones. SKOOL played on all of the U.S. Sunsplash tours from 1993 onward, working alongside Diana King, Dennis Brown, Barrington Levy, Steel Pulse, Judy Mowatt, Big Mountain, Toots Hibbert, Gregory Isaacs, and many more top names from the reggae world. They toured extensively across the U.S., Europe, Asia and South America. The band had compiled a ‘live’ album entitled "SKOOL in Session" before Lymie decided to pursue a solo career in 1997.
It was during the Sunsplash tour in 1997, that a relationship between young Lymie and lovers rock crooner Freddie McGregor took shape, his first release on the Big Ship label was "Jah I Wanna Be With You Now" which was featured on the Midem 1997 compilation. His second release was a cover of the Tammi Tyrell and Marvin Gaye classic "Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing," which he soulfully sang with the songstress Zoe Fox. Lymie began touring and opening for Freddie McGregor soon after. The collaboration between Barry Clarke (BCR International), Dalton Brownie (Busy Bee Records), U.K. based Stingray Records as well as Big Ship label was the beginning of what was to become Lymie’s third album Start All Over later released by Jet Star (UK).
Apart from processing one of the most soulfully expressive voices heard in contemporary reggae, Lymie is also a songwriter, writing most of his own material. Some of his finest work includes "Blessed," "Everytime I Touch You," and"Jah Fire." Lymie was honoured to be included in the UB40 21st Anniversary Concert celebration held in Birmingham, England in September 2001. He also performed on the London Philharmonic series headlined by John Holt and Ken Boothe. In December of the same year Reggae lovers were treated to his most prolific album to date- Only Conversation released on Big Ship/VP Records. 2002 commenced with promotional album tours of Japan, USA and the Caribbean. Upon returning to Jamaica he established Lime Lite Inc. which is a multi-faceted production house. In 2003 Lymie delivered superb performances on Rebel Salute, Western Consciousness, To Mom with Love which featured Johnny Gill and the Isley Brothers (May 14) and also Capleton’s St. Mary Mi Come From! 2004 and 2005 were also remarkable years for Lymie, local performances in that period included Summer Hype and East Fest. In addition, the singer spent considerable time in the studio recording for future projects. Lymie is featured on the video for the Battlefield Compilation Album which is receiving heavy rotation on the local cable channels. On the heels of this tune Gumption Productions also released "Breathe of Life" featuring Jah Thunda, which is an inspiring, hardcore collaboration with the Singer and David House D.J. On May 24th 2006 the Time for Love album compilation was launched at the Pegasus Hotel Poolside where Lymie brought the words of his song "Slow and Easy" to life with passionate animations and melodic slurs unique to this artiste. Lymie also mesmerized audiences on “International Reggae Day” at the Cable & Wireless Golf Academy on July 1, 2006, “Summer Hype” 2K6 at the Goodyear Oval, St. Thomas on July 22, and Capleton’s “A St. Mary Mi Come From” in St. Mary on August 6th.
But at the end of the day when the Show-lights are dimmed Lymie finds his “Haven” in the Studios. He says, “My passion is to touch people with my music and sincerely hope that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in the sight of God.” When asked what inspires him, Lymie replies “Love, Life, Longevity- not only in the musical sense, but also as a blueprint for everyday life.”
Soulful Crooner, Rastafarai Lover, Refrigerator (lol..soon find out)....Lymie Murray you are officially Lime Certified!!!!
Q & A
1. Who are your top five musical influences?
The balladeers. Artists like Dennis Emanuel Brown, Gerald Alston (from the Manhattans), Al Green, Smokie Robinson and Jacob Miller.
2. What is it you love most about your Jamaican heritage?
The Jamaican motto says out of many one people; so that pride that we take in ourselves, that pride that carries us forward to achieve a Usain Bolt kind of status, that pride that carries us to achieve that Bob Marley status, is an endearing trait among Jamaicans—that sense of country.
3. If you could have dinner with any three persons, who would you pick and why?
Henry Kissinger- he has a wealth of information because he has served many presidents— a veteran.
Barack Obama to get an understanding of that audacity of hope, because there is a whole lot of stuff that he could tell that never got said on the campaign trail. That thing that motivated him—not even to where he is; but the journey. Living the process. I would have loved for him to tell me how he lived that process to get to where he is right now. So the process is what I am interested in. Bill Clinton because he has that charisma. He has that presence that Michael Manley had, the same kind of presence that Bob Marley had
So if I could choose another Bob Marley would definitely be there. I would have loved to sit with Margaret Thatcher-I’m a sucker for powerful women
(me interjecting: so what happen to Ms. Charles (Dame Mary Eugenia Charles of Dominica) the Iron Lady of the Caribbean, it’s first female Prime Minister)
Never got as familiar with her history, and trust me, me feel bad about it and trust me it should be on the fingertips, on the lips; but world leaders-people in the seat that determines whether it pop or it don’t pop. Those people that have their finger on the pulse. She could be classified as being among those-being the first female PM in the Caribbean she must have aspired long and hard so where praise is due it should be given
4. What is your worst habit?
I don’t want to say I’m too kind….uhmmm….Smoking
5. If you could describe yourself as a household appliance what would you be and why?
I would be the refrigerator because I get to preserve the nourishment of the household and I am essentially responsible for the essence of who you are. Your food is you. So I am responsible for keeping you healthy.
6. Have you ever had an embarrassing moment on stage or in public?
Yeah, both. Reggae Sunsplash, 1996 I think. I was lead singer for a band called SKOOL. I was onstage inna di happiest moment and traumatic (more traumatic than embarrassing) I pulled a muscle right cross mi shoulder ( no one know shoulder ache like someone who has been there, pull a muscle, tear a ligament, whatever). The pain shot down my entire back, had to shut down de band and so I had to, in the middle of a performance, drag myself off stage. Wata run outta mi eye man...
7. When did you know you wanted to be an entertainer?
I don’t want to say I always knew, it’s almost like I evolved. I used to do the 9-5-just go to work and come home. One day in the office a brethren came in and said “who’s Lymie?” and I said “me” and him say “Oh you need to come sing you know cause we hear say you ah big singer.” So I left the 9-5 experience in 1991/1992. During the days I was with SKOOL there wasn’t that sense of individuality of who I was, what I wanted. I was with a group so anything the group decided I had to go with it. I was always advocating for a Third World kind of experience but these cats were far older than I was, they had their fair share of industry experience and I think that is one of the things that stopped me from not stepping into the whole Lymie movement earlier. But in 1998 when we finished the album Happy Days, that was when I was sure. Even if we had the songs leading up to then--having the physical album in my hand was when I knew.
8. When you are long gone. What do you want to be remembered for?
Someone who always tried to say something positive, something that would liberate the people, that would give you that greater sense of self, that would make you love a new someone. I hope I am planting these seeds that will bear these fruits; right now we are seeing the beautiful blossoms. So I water the plants so that they grow and by extension bear fruit. Cause you have trees that grow and grow and grow and you chop them down after a while cause dem just big and odious and don’t serve a purpose really. Which…I shouldn’t say that because every tree has a purpose. Some trees might not serve the purpose that we want or be in the right location suitable for its purpose. So a fruit tree would be useful to you and your kids especially if planted where everyone hangs out. So we want to plant those seeds that will bear those fruits so that can feed the people. Like my music-- which educates and edifies.
9. If you could spend 5 hours in your favorite city, where would you go and what would you do?
Don’t know if I have a favorite city, except that I love my hometown. I am going to be in one place and have all my needs met, it would have to be in the town where I was born, Royal Flat in the parish of Manchester. I would be there with the people who gave me life, the woman who was the first to hear me when I cried (that’s my mother of course). Reconnect with my roots.
10. What are your favorite:
Sport-American Football
female actress-Jessica Alba
breakfast food-cornmeal porridge
day of the week-Wednesday cause it’s the crossroads
book-Mandela
Go With Your Gut
11. Great legs or gorgeous hair (on a woman)?
Great legs
12. Home cook or take out?
Home cooked
13. Blue balls or black eye?
Black eye
14. Knowledge or wisdom?
Wisdom
15. Blue or yellow?
Blue-for it’s intensity; even the darker shades.
Finish It
16. I knew it was love when I fell. I became humbled to the point where it just happened –cause love happens to you.
17. Condoms are a must use not only a must have.
18. I am addicted to Rastafari.
19. I love it when people speak their minds. Cause then I know who they are and what they represent. Without that knowledge we cannot co-exist.
20. Lymie Murray is truly blessed.
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Lymie's Latest Release "Good Morning Jamaica"
Love this vid!
