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BOOK CLUB PICKS: Greensleeves: The First 100 Covers (revised 2nd edition)

 




This is the story of Greensleeves Records — from its origins as a mid-1970s West London record shop to its evolution into a pioneering record label that brought the cream of upfront, uncut Jamaican music to the world. 






With a focus on the label’s formative years and first 100 album covers, this extensively updated second edition presents a wealth of new information alongside rare photographs of artists such as Dr Alimantado, Dennis Brown, John Holt, King Jammy, Barrington Levy, Augustus Pablo, Ranking Dread, Sister Nancy and Yellowman, among many others. 





In-depth interviews with key figures also offer insights into the music, musicians and business practices that helped establish Greensleeves as one of the most influential reggae and dancehall labels of all time. Featuring previously unseen archive material and a comprehensive label discography, Greensleeves: The First 100 Covers is an essential addition to the library of the discerning music connoisseur.







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Afrobeat vs. Reggae: Two Rhythms, Two Worlds


Music is a powerful force, able to transcend borders and connect cultures. But even within a single continent, diverse musical styles can emerge, each with its own unique flavor. Today, we're exploring the rich world of African music, specifically the difference between two iconic genres: **Afrobeat** and **Reggae**.



Afrobeat: A vibrant fusion born in Nigeria, Afrobeat is a rhythmic and politically charged genre that blends elements of traditional Yoruba music, jazz, funk, and highlife. The driving force behind Afrobeat is the **complex polyrhythms** that create a hypnotic and powerful groove. Think driving basslines, layered percussion, and intricate call-and-response vocals.



Reggae: Originating in Jamaica, Reggae is a soulful and deeply rooted genre that draws inspiration from traditional Jamaican music, R&B, and ska. The hallmark of Reggae is the **signature offbeat rhythm** that creates a relaxed, yet powerful feel. Think prominent offbeat basslines, driving drum and bass combinations, and lyrics often focused on social commentary and spirituality.



The Key Differences:


Origin: Afrobeat hails from Nigeria while Reggae originated in Jamaica.

Rhythm: Afrobeat emphasizes complex polyrhythms, while Reggae uses a distinct offbeat rhythm.

Instrumentation: Both genres feature prominent horns and bass but vary in their use of other instruments. Afrobeat leans towards more complex instrumentation with brass, keyboards, and guitars, while Reggae prioritizes the traditional rhythm section.

Political Content: Afrobeat is known for its strong political themes, often criticizing colonialism, corruption, and social injustice. While Reggae also addresses social issues, its lyrics tend to focus on spirituality, love, and personal struggles.



Bridging the Gap:


Despite their differences, Afrobeat and Reggae share a common thread: their power to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Both genres have gained global recognition, inspiring artists and fans alike. They demonstrate the unique and dynamic nature of music, showcasing how cultural influences can blend together to create something truly captivating.



Grammy-Nominated producer King Hopeton Releases Transformative Reggae Album “Time”



Internationally acclaimed reggae artist and Grammy-nominated producer King Hopeton proudly announces the release of his transformative new album, Time — a deeply spiritual, roots-infused project designed to uplift and heal through sound.



Produced, mixed, and mastered by King Hopeton, Time explores themes of unity, divine timing, and inner peace, all while delivering the warm, organic tones of music tuned to 432Hz — a frequency often associated with natural harmony and healing vibrations. The result is a collection that resonates with both the soul and the senses.




“Time is more than an album — it’s a vibration,” says King Hopeton. “It speaks to the power of love, the truth of life, and the oneness we all share. Every track is a meditation, a message, and a movement.”


With decades of experience as a performer, songwriter, and Grammy-nominated producer, King Hopeton continues to honor Jamaica’s musical legacy while carrying its spiritual flame into a new age. Time stands as both a personal reflection and a universal message — reminding the world that love, faith, and purpose remain eternal.




Time is now available on all major digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, as well as in limited-edition vinyl for collectors and audiophiles seeking authentic warmth.


About King Hopeton:


King Hopeton (Horace Campbell) is a Jamaican-born musician, producer, and songwriter whose artistry bridges spiritual awareness and musical excellence. Known for his soulful vocals, positive energy, and uplifting messages, he has worked with some of reggae’s most respected names and earned Grammy recognition for his production and performance. His music continues to inspire a global audience with its message of unity, love, and higher vibration.


Media Contact:

King Hopeton Music

Doublelionstudio@gmail.com


Website :https://kinghopeton.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kinghopeton_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KingHopetonOfficial/



Bob Marley Tops The Year-End Billboard Reggae Albums Chart Again

 




For the sixth consecutive year, Marley’s Legend compilation album registers top sales in the genre, while no releases from 2025 are present.




Bob Marley and The Wailers’ Legend first released in 1984 is the top-selling reggae album in America of 2025. It also remains at the top of the Reggae Albums Chart list for the week ending Dec. 13, continuing to assert its presence over releases by much younger acts.




Since 2020, when catalog releases and compilations were admitted to the Billboard chart listing, the forty-one year-old collection has reigned supreme on reggae’s year-end listing. Featuring tracks that targeted the white pop mainstream audience and deliberately avoided the genre’s often confrontational politics challenging colonialism and capitalism, Legend has now sold over eighteen million copies in America alone, and many more units globally.



STREAMING WITH YOU IN THE PAST WEEK

 



We broadcast globally 24/7 .... 365 and have been for over a decade. We  have embedded players on our web pages, in our radio lounge, on 15 affiliate websites  and broadcast live from TIC TOC.  That's reaching out to a lot of reggae enthusiasts. Our service provider furnishes  a cumulative report from all the disbursed media players and here's the top 25 countries who tuned in the past 7 days.

The first graph reports  the top countries who hit that >> GO BUTTON<<< and tuned in. The second graph reports who tuned in for the longest period of time per session!  This is the NATION family!!!!  The people we love and respect.  Thank you for  hitting that dial and staying locked .....







TAP HERE TO >>>>  COMPARE TO LAST WEEK 






IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING DJ FATTA ICON


 DEAR SHYRICK NATION

You would have noticed by now the sporadic absence from scheduled shows with founder and CEO, Gary FATTA ICON Dixon.  Anyone who knows the dj, fully knows that it would take something serious to prevent him from doing what he loves.



Unfortunately something serious has struck the Dixon family just this past November when his wife  Tracy was diagnosed with the return of Cancer.  And like  dominos an  avalance of misfortune has since followed the family.  First and foremost I, ( Chickmelion)  personally ask of your prayers for this entire family.  I understand that you too  may be going through your own trials so I personally  have decided to be blanketing prayers over all the NATION for the next few months because I feel we all need it.





I just spoke to dj FATTA ICON this morning, he apologizes to the NATION for this disruption, he wishes everyone peace and joy through out the holiday season and he is grateful for the support you have provided this station for well over a decade.


SO WHAT WILL THE IMPLICATIONS BE?

At the moment there is a great cloud of uncertainty  with the Dixon family as they work to remove the stones in their path. No one is certain when dj FATTA ICON will be back to the mic, however these events only effect the portion of our programming that involves dj FATTA ICON LIVE all other special presentations on the 24/7 stream will continue as scheduled.  





WHAT OF THE FINAL BINGO?

This special is on hold for the moment, we have all the entrants lined up and when the dj returns we will be ready to resume with the search for ARTIST OF THE YEAR and begin season #6.

Keep logging in family, and thank you for your support. I will update the NATION as we receive further information. for now may you all be blessed.




KHALIA IS BURNINGH UP 2025 WITH YET ANOTHER BANGER FOR YOU ....



Khalia is a Jamaican-born, UK-raised reggae artist blends roots consciousness with crossover edges. Her track MIRACLE was produced by Natural High Music, the team behind hits from Chronixx and Lila Iké, the track arrives via Ineffable Records with profound intention. Hit that >> GO BUTTON<< family and see what we mean ...




While Khalia has always been focused on becoming a successful artists, It was in 2016 Khalia that met Shaggy and sent him some of her music she had recorded. After listening, he was impressed with her talent told her he knew the perfect producer to bring her sound to the next level.





Once Tony Kelly and Khalia met at his studio in Kingston Jamaica, they recorded a demo the same day and have been working together ever since.


A REMINDER TO RISE ABOVE THE STRESS


 

More than just a song, “Pass Di Chalice” is a true meditation on elevation. Driven by an irresistible Roots and Reggae groove and a catchy chorus, the track celebrates small moments of joy and mindfulness. Cali P blends tradition with modernity, delivering reggae that radiates peace, balance, and good vibrations from start to finish. Hit that >> GO BUTTON << family and check it out right now ...



Above all, it’s a reminder to rise above stress and reconnect with positivity. Through his lyrics and soothing delivery, Cali P expresses his deep connection to nature, music, and spiritual healing, through conscious living and the sweet sound of reggae.






ROOTS VIBES WORTHY OF YOUR PLAYLISTS, CHECK IT OUT...




With this release, Madelaine and Luciano bring together melodies, roots, and deep respect for reggae tradition: a bridge between generations, a fusion of admiration, talent, and authentic Jamaican spirit. Both artists highlight the importance of being grateful each day for life itself and adopting a positive mindset in the face of challenges. Hit that >> GO BUTTON << family and enjoy .....




Born in Venice, Italy, as Carlotta Jovina Beeter, Mad Elaine’s passion for music started as a young child and she has since blossomed into a multifaceted singer, songwriter, producer, performer, and journalist.

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Indulging in reggae music for over 30 years, she started out as a background vocalist then became a singer, performing covers. She then started to write songs on rhythms of different producers and has now been producing her own since 2015.






ANOTHER TRACKI HITTING AN AUDIOMACK MILESTONE

 


Uploaded by us way back in Nov. 2020, off of the MY GIRL RIDDIM is this banger from  ZIGGY RANKING. It hit a 1000 play milestone just a day ago. This track is a sweet love song  well worth taking a listen to. You know what to do family, hit that >> GO BUTTON << and see what the fuss is all about 






ZIGGY RANKIN born Khori Francis, is a name that resonates with the vibrant beats of reggae and the pulsating rhythms of soca. A cultural icon from Trinidad and Tobago, Rankin has been a steadfast presence in the Caribbean music scene, known for his unique blend of genres and his commitment to spreading messages of love and unity through his music.



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A WHOLE LOT OF REDEMPTION WENT DOWN LASTR NIGHT...


 


14 artists who were unable to last on the BOSS HIT LIST  long enough to qualify for the 5 week mandatory requirement were given an opportunity of redemption and the ability to earn a coveted spot in our SEARCH FOR ARTISTOF THE YEAR 2026!




We ran 3 HEATS last night on our REDEMPTION BINGO. There was an expectation that each heat would produce one winner , however in an extraordinary generous move, DJ FATTA ICON announce that 8 artists in total were going to walk away smiling.  Here family are how the HEATS were lined up and who won. We provided a sample of their track so make sure to check them out family!


HEAT #1


WINNERS

Yami Bolo - With You

JC Lodge & King Jammy - True Believer

Nature Ellis - Love That Style






HEAT #2



WINNERS

Sizzla - So in Love
Empress Divine - Medi
Angel Eyes - Try Again








HEAT #3





WINNERS

1 Emma - Stop The Violence
NESTA - Worthwhile







Here are the names of all the finalists for BOSS HIT LIST SEASON #5 - SEARCH FOR TOP ARTIST OF THE YEAR. 26 in total.  


SESE FOSTER - EVERYTHING I OWN
JAH NICENESS -  1000 PULL UPS
LOYAL FLAMES - LOVE ME NOW 
DIAMOND LIYAH - DONT JUDGE ME
WARRIOR KING - ALL ABOUT YOU
R3AKSTARR - TOP A THE MORNING
JAH NICENESS - TRAP
CHEZIDEK - PLAY ME THAT SONG AGAIN
PRESSURE BUSSPIPE - DESTINY
ANCIENT WARRIOR - WHEN IT GONNA STOP
ANTHONY B - ROCKSTEADY
JEMERE MORGAN - SWEET LOVE
ANTHONY B -SAVED BY GRACE
TREESHA - RUN IT
CLYMAXX, NUMBAZ - STILL ALIVE
LUTAN FYAH - REDEMPTION
TASJAY , RAD DIXON - NAH TRUST
DALTON HARRIS - BAD HABIT
YAMI BOLO - WITH YOU
JC LODGE - TRUE BELIEVER
NATURE ELLIS - LOVE THAT STYLE
SIZZLA - SO IN LOVE WITH YOU
EMPRESS DIVINE - MEDI
ANGEL EYES - TRY AGAIN
1 EMMA - STOP THE VIOLENCE
NESTA- WORTHWHILE


We will be holding our FINAL BINGO  early in JANUARY 2026. Stay tuned for the date and times family. But for now here's the lucky final contestants. Who are you hoping will be crowned. Tune into the show and cross your fingers!



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