Entertainment

Embarking on a mission to safeguard a precious sense that has been an integral part of Bobby Chin’s life's journey, he has humbly turned to the GoFundMe platform to rally support in preserving his vision.

In a heartfelt journey to overcome the challenges of Diabetic Proliferative Retinopathy with Macular Edema, he finds himself at a critical juncture. The irreversible loss of sight in his left eye, despite numerous consultations and treatments, has compelled him to take a step forward to preserve what remains of his vision. Now, facing the looming threat of sight loss in his right eye, he stands in urgent need of immediate intervention to navigate the path ahead. Chin's determined pursuit has a clear goal: to secure $12,000 in funds that will contribute to covering his crucial medical expenses.

To provide some context about Bobby Chin, let's delve into his background. Originally known as Robert Lee, Bobby Chin initiated his journey as a selector in Kingston, Jamaica, before making his move to the United States at the age of 21. Upon his arrival, he discovered a new home in Washington, DC, where he promptly established himself as a selector for one of the standout sound systems of the 90s, Earthquake. Excelling in this role, Bobby Chin's journey led him to Florida, where he became an indispensable part of the Tampa based sound system, Poison Dart, which counted the exceptionally talented Supa Dups among its ranks. With Poison Dart, he embarked on an expansive musical journey spanning North America and the Caribbean, leaving an indelible imprint on the musical landscape.

After their departure from Poison Dart, Supa and Chin commenced on a collaborative journey, resulting in the production of numerous dancehall/hip-hop mixtapes. In 1999, Supa Dups released the inaugural mix CD titled "Black Chiney 1 - Enter the Dragon." This marked the first instance of the duo adopting the name Black Chiney, a moniker they previously lacked. The mixtape garnered substantial sales and made a significant impact within the Caribbean region. It was during this time that Miami's DJ Khaled (WEDR 99.1) caught wind of their mixtapes and eagerly enlisted their production prowess for more creations. With each subsequent mixtape release by Supa Dups, Black Chiney's reputation as a mix CD continued to thrive, and their mixtapes resonated profoundly, solidifying their popularity.

In early 2001, the duo publicly debuted as Black Chiney. The name quickly gained prominence in Jamaica, propelled by their impactful mixtapes. During the summer of 2001, they further solidified their reputation through their participation in sound clashes, garnering both success and respect. In these clashes, Chin assumed the role of the deejay, engaging in on-stage battles with opponents, while Supa curated the riddim as the selector.

A significant turning point occurred in 2002 during Jamaica's annual event, Fully Loaded, where Black Chiney clashed with the reigning ‘king,’ Tony Matterhorn. The outcome saw Matterhorn concede victory to Black Chiney. Later that year, in a rematch held in Miami, Matterhorn once again faced defeat at the hands of Black Chiney, underscoring their dominance in the sound clash arena.

Bobby Chin stands as a true pioneer and vibrant presence within the music industry. With a dynamic career that spans eras and genres, he has etched his name as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving musical landscape. A real youth at heart, Bobby Chin's passion for music knows no bounds. His journey as a selector and collaborator showcases not only his remarkable talent but also his dedication to pushing boundaries and shaping the industry. From his early days as a selector in Kingston, Jamaica, to his enduring influence as a member of the renowned Black Chiney Sound System, Chin's impact resonates deeply. As a pioneer, he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of music enthusiasts, setting an example for the generations to come.

Joining hands within the dancehall and entertainment fraternity, let's collaborate to support Bobby Chin in achieving his goal for the crucial medical attention he urgently requires.

Chin's niece, Peta-Gaye, is managing his fundraiser on his behalf and is readily available to address any inquiries you may have.

Donations are accepted HERE

We are continuing to keep Bobby Chin's health and swift recovery in our thoughts and prayers. 

Bobby Chin recently turned to his supporters on Instagram, connecting through a live session to personally share and explain his current journey.

Photo Credits: Black Chiney Sound Facebook

.

.

.

Follow @bobbychin80 on IG

Jamaican artist Teejay has recently inked publishing and record agreements with Warner Music Group and Warner Records, in what is being hailed as "dancehall's most significant deal of the year”. With such a monumental deal, Teejay had no choice but to bring his A-game, and he certainly did not disappoint.

Last night at Reggae Sumfest, dancehall superstar Teejay graced the stage in a striking all-black outfit, proudly displaying the Jamaican flag imprinted on his jacket, a powerful statement of his love and pride for his country. As he took center stage, the energy in the venue soared, and the crowd erupted in anticipation as he kicked off his performance with the hit track "Drift," a song that has been taking the nation by storm. The pulsating beat and Teejay's infectious energy had the entire audience moving and singing along in unison.

Accompanied by a talented group of five dancers, Teejay's stage presence was spectacular, and he effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present. As the chorus of "Drift" echoed through the venue, Teejay encouraged the crowd to join in the fun and perform the "Drift Dance," a signature move that has become a dancehall sensation. The audience enthusiastically followed his lead, embracing the opportunity to be a part of the electric atmosphere that only a dancehall superstar like Teejay could create.

Teejay's genuine connection with his fans was evident as he interacted with the audience throughout his set. His performance showcased not only his musical skills but also his inspiring message to ghetto youths. During his set, he passionately encouraged them to believe in themselves and their dreams, emphasizing that with determination and hard work, anything is possible

In a heartfelt moment, Teejay revealed that he used his earnings from Sumfest to reinvest in his career. Rather than indulging in lavish spending, he made strategic decisions to support his craft. Teejay's thoughtful investments included purchasing tickets for friends to see him perform, an act that not only strengthened his bond with his loved ones but also served as a testament to the value he places on genuine connections.

Additionally, Teejay's attention to detail was evident as he revealed that he personally provided the hand lights for the crowd. His intention was to create an aesthetically pleasing visual experience for his audience, highlighting his dedication to putting on the best show possible. Teejay's actions and words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of those who witnessed his performance. His humility and determination shows that he also uplifts and inspires.

Teejay opened up to the crowd, revealing during his performance, that if he spoke on certain things he would cry but he wasn’t going to do that because people said that he was going to flop and his career was over. Despite facing naysayers who predicted his failure and the end of his career, Teejay stood firm, determined to prove them wrong. With every note he sang and every dance move he executed, he channeled that resilience into an inspiring display of talent and passion. His unwavering commitment to his craft shone brightly through his performance, showcasing the depth of his dedication to his musical journey.

As the crowd cheered him on, it was evident that Teejay's honesty and vulnerability had struck a chord with the audience. His willingness to share his struggles and triumphs made him relatable, and his ability to rise above adversity left a lasting impression on all who witnessed the moment. Teejay's performance became a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges and criticism, believing in oneself and pursuing one's dreams with unwavering determination can lead to remarkable success.

Teejay wowed the crowd by delivering a medley of his top hits, leaving the audience in awe of his hit-making abilities. During Teejay's electrifying performance, he brought the energy to an even higher level by inviting the upsurging talent Malie Donn to join him on stage. Malie Donn came out supercharged and ready for the crowd. Time was limited but he delivered an explosive performance of his hit tracks "V6" and "Little Miss Grippy”. The duo's collaboration was a powerhouse combination, and the crowd was in for a high-energy musical treat. As they united their musical talents, they exemplified the true spirit of dancehall music, where artists come together to celebrate and elevate the genre, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The sheer energy and excitement Teejay brought to the stage left a lasting impression on the hearts of the attendees. Teejay’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout moments of this year's Reggae Sumfest. Teejay's authoritative stage presence and exceptional talent reaffirmed his position as a dominant force in the dancehall scene, and his unforgettable performance left everyone eagerly awaiting the brilliance he will undoubtedly bring in the future.

.

.

Follow @uptopboss_official on IG

Follow @malie_music on IG

Photo by Marlon Reid

Footage from Reggae Sumfest Channel 

Watch Teejay’s Sumfest Performance

Beenie Man took to his social media platforms recently to officially announce the forthcoming release of his highly-anticipated seventeenth studio album, Simma. The album, produced by MD Music Group, will be released on August 31, 2023.

In his Instagram post, he added: "This album is very special to me because I created this body of work at my lowest point when I lost my mom. Simma will showcase my versatility as an artiste, where I have explored new genres while keeping the music authentic."

In the same post, he shared, “Simma signifies that I am still here and doing what I love best, touring and making great music.”

The album showcases an incredible roster of star-studded collaborators, featuring names such as Busy Signal, Patoranking, Giggs, Ms. Banks, Mya, Hood Celebrityy, Dexta Daps, Shenseea, Bunji Garlin, Shaggy, Popcaan, Dre Island, Morgan Heritage, Charly Black, Louie Culture, Stonebwoy, Anthony Red Rose, Dre Island, and Backroad Gee.

The project enlisted an array of talented producers, including Frankie Music Productions, Jerome Wright, Andre "Suku" Gray, Dutty Rock Productions, Walshy Fire, Rohan Smith, MD Music Group, Richie D, Jeremy Harding, Tony Kelly, Money Matters Entertainment, and the internationally acclaimed Teddy Riley and The FaNaTiX.

On July 28, the debut single of Simma, titled "Supa Star," featuring Sean Paul and Anthony Red Rose, is set to be released along with an accompanying music video. This collaboration marks the long-awaited reunion of Sean Paul and Beenie Man since their previous tracks "Bossman" with Lady Saw in 2002, and "Greatest Gallis" in 2014. Fans can anticipate an exciting musical reunion between the two dancehall legends.

CD Art Credit: Beenie Man Official IG

Photo Credit: Publicist

.

.

.

Follow @kingbeenieman on IG

The final act of Reggae Sumfest last night featured dancehall artist Tommy Lee, whose highly-anticipated appearance was his first show since being released from prison. After serving two years of a three-year sentence for illegal possession of a firearm, Tommy Lee's return to the stage was a momentous occasion for both him and his fans. With his reputation as a high voltage performer, the anticipation for his performance was at an all-time high, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement.

As Tommy Lee took the stage, the energy in the venue was electric. His undeniable presence and unique style immediately stimulated the audience, who showed their unwavering support by cheering and singing along to his every word. It was evident that Tommy Lee's time away had not dampened his talent or stage presence, as he delivered a powerhouse performance filled with hits from his extensive catalog.

For the patrons, witnessing Tommy Lee's return to the spotlight was a moment of celebration and triumph. His impressive showmanship and genuine connection with the audience served as a testament to his resilience and commitment to his craft. As he poured his heart and soul into each song, it was clear that this was a defining moment in his career and a new chapter for the dancehall artist.

During Tommy Lee's performance, he expressed his overwhelming joy to be back on stage, and he took a moment to reflect on his time in jail. He shared a profound conversation he had with the renowned dancehall icon Vybz Kartel during his incarceration, which had a transformative impact on his life. Tommy Lee openly acknowledged how prison life had changed him, prompting him to reevaluate his choices and embrace positive change.

Grateful for the support he received from the prison warders at Horizon prison, Tommy Lee paid his respects to them for believing in his capacity to change and grow. He used his platform to deliver a heartfelt message to the patrons, emphasizing the importance of self-love and the need to avoid a path that could lead to imprisonment.

Tommy Lee's time behind bars allowed him to rediscover himself and prioritize his family, dedicating time to strengthen those bonds. He bravely acknowledged his battle with addiction, revealing that he successfully overcame his struggles with pill-popping and other challenges during his incarceration. It was evident that prison had been a turning point in his life, pushing him to confront and conquer his demons.

As he performed on stage, it was clear that Tommy Lee had emerged stronger and more determined than ever before. His heartfelt and candid messages resonated deeply with the audience, demonstrating the power of self-reflection and personal growth. Tommy Lee's transformative journey became an inspiration to those who heard his story, reminding them of the importance of resilience and the potential for positive change in the face of adversity.

Tommy Lee's final act at Reggae Sumfest last night marked a triumphant comeback, signaling his re-emergence into the music scene with a renewed passion and dedication. The patrons were elated to see him back on stage, and his performance was a testament to the enduring power of music and the unwavering support of his loyal fans. As the night came to a close, the memory of Tommy Lee's remarkable return will linger in the hearts of all those who witnessed this extraordinary moment in dancehall history.

.

.

Follow @tommyleesparta on IG

.

.

Photo from Reggae Sumfest Official IG page

Footage by Reggae Sumfest Channel

Watch Tommy Lee’s Reggae Sumfest performance