Reggae music has birthed yet another rarity- a spirited and
soulful singer/songwriter in the eloquent and enchanting empress Etana!
In the early 2000s, singer Shauna McKenzie fully recognized the power of music and its widespread influence, especially upon the youth; that realization prompted a seismic shift in her career trajectory. Living in Florida at the time where she was studying to become a nurse, she left college to join the female pop-R&B trio Gift. While shooting a music video with the group she defied the overtly sexual stereotypes forced upon female artists and walked off the set, protesting the requisite attire of lingerie and stilettos and invasive camera angles. She returned to her birthplace, Jamaica, with the intention of opening an internet cafe but a fateful meeting with 5th Element Records, then the management/record label of reggae singer Richie Spice, resulted in her selection as one of Spice’s backup singers and eventually, her own recordings.
She chose the name Etana, which means ‘the strong one’ in Swahili; her strength was manifested, this time around, by pursuing a musical career strictly on her own terms. Etana’s elegantly modest Rasta-chic sartorial style is as distinctive as her sound: an audacious fusion of folk, soul, jazz and reggae supporting a powerful vocal range suggestive of the ancestral spirit of South Africa’s Miriam Makeba, the regality of reggae queen Marcia Griffiths and the soulful verve of Etta James. “I looked at how women were being represented in (Jamaican) music and how little girls think that is the way it is supposed to be, and I wanted to be a positive influence and change some of the things they are taught,” Etana reflected.
Ever since the release of her first single in 2007, “Wrong Address”, which highlights the discrimination faced by some Jamaicans living in violence-plagued communities, followed by “Roots”, which cautions the younger generation to maintain their culture (“you cyan water down and dilute, you cyan hide the truth from the youths”) Etana has consistently wrapped encouraging and edifying sentiments in gorgeous melodies and lushly textured rhythms. Her debut album for VP Records “The Strong One” was released in 2008 to extensive acclaim while her sophomore album “Free Expressions” including her deeply emotional rendering on “Free”, broadened her fan base.
On February 26 2013, VP Records released Etana’s third set “A Better Tomorrow”; recorded at Kingston’s legendary Tuff Gong Studios. “I wanted this album to feel like a concert performance and have everything go together, like chapters in a book, with all of the tracks played live by musicians (not digitally generated),” Etana explained. Producer Shane C. Brown of Kingston’s Juke Boxx Productions brilliantly executes Etana’s vision. The "Better Tomorrow" album peaked at #8 on the Reggae Billboard and #3 on the iTunes chart.
In october 2014, VP records released the fourth album, "I Rise", produced by "the Great" Clive Hunt. Which debuted at #1 on the reggae billboard charts and remained in the top position for four weeks. "I Rise" was dubbed one of the best albums for the year of 2014 and listed in the top five for said year by many.
Each album definitely shows Etana's progress through her journey, vocally, lyrically, spiritually.
From reggae and pop to rock and jazz, her musical influences are varied and though she is not one to subscribe to labels, Etana describes her brand of music as reggae soul – “It is straight from the heart, straight from the soul, straight from the people and everyday life”.
Operating now from Freemind Music LLC's office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and her local office in St. Andrew, Jamaica. Etana continues to tour America, Europe and the rest of the world consecutively each year.
Etana has also been an advocate and activist for impoverished children in Jamaica and battered girls through her charity organization the " STRONG ONES UNITED". Etana has been actively offering her services and time to various charity organizations for Jamaica, raising funds toward alleviating the problem of poverty in Jamaican garrison communities. A true ambassador for Reggae music and female in the music industry, she is relentless in spreading her message of "unconditional love" through positive music with the hope of uplifting her audience from any situation that render them weak or hopeless. Prepare yourself for the Etana Experience!
In the early 2000s, singer Shauna McKenzie fully recognized the power of music and its widespread influence, especially upon the youth; that realization prompted a seismic shift in her career trajectory. Living in Florida at the time where she was studying to become a nurse, she left college to join the female pop-R&B trio Gift. While shooting a music video with the group she defied the overtly sexual stereotypes forced upon female artists and walked off the set, protesting the requisite attire of lingerie and stilettos and invasive camera angles. She returned to her birthplace, Jamaica, with the intention of opening an internet cafe but a fateful meeting with 5th Element Records, then the management/record label of reggae singer Richie Spice, resulted in her selection as one of Spice’s backup singers and eventually, her own recordings.
She chose the name Etana, which means ‘the strong one’ in Swahili; her strength was manifested, this time around, by pursuing a musical career strictly on her own terms. Etana’s elegantly modest Rasta-chic sartorial style is as distinctive as her sound: an audacious fusion of folk, soul, jazz and reggae supporting a powerful vocal range suggestive of the ancestral spirit of South Africa’s Miriam Makeba, the regality of reggae queen Marcia Griffiths and the soulful verve of Etta James. “I looked at how women were being represented in (Jamaican) music and how little girls think that is the way it is supposed to be, and I wanted to be a positive influence and change some of the things they are taught,” Etana reflected.
Ever since the release of her first single in 2007, “Wrong Address”, which highlights the discrimination faced by some Jamaicans living in violence-plagued communities, followed by “Roots”, which cautions the younger generation to maintain their culture (“you cyan water down and dilute, you cyan hide the truth from the youths”) Etana has consistently wrapped encouraging and edifying sentiments in gorgeous melodies and lushly textured rhythms. Her debut album for VP Records “The Strong One” was released in 2008 to extensive acclaim while her sophomore album “Free Expressions” including her deeply emotional rendering on “Free”, broadened her fan base.
On February 26 2013, VP Records released Etana’s third set “A Better Tomorrow”; recorded at Kingston’s legendary Tuff Gong Studios. “I wanted this album to feel like a concert performance and have everything go together, like chapters in a book, with all of the tracks played live by musicians (not digitally generated),” Etana explained. Producer Shane C. Brown of Kingston’s Juke Boxx Productions brilliantly executes Etana’s vision. The "Better Tomorrow" album peaked at #8 on the Reggae Billboard and #3 on the iTunes chart.
In october 2014, VP records released the fourth album, "I Rise", produced by "the Great" Clive Hunt. Which debuted at #1 on the reggae billboard charts and remained in the top position for four weeks. "I Rise" was dubbed one of the best albums for the year of 2014 and listed in the top five for said year by many.
Each album definitely shows Etana's progress through her journey, vocally, lyrically, spiritually.
From reggae and pop to rock and jazz, her musical influences are varied and though she is not one to subscribe to labels, Etana describes her brand of music as reggae soul – “It is straight from the heart, straight from the soul, straight from the people and everyday life”.
Operating now from Freemind Music LLC's office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and her local office in St. Andrew, Jamaica. Etana continues to tour America, Europe and the rest of the world consecutively each year.
Etana has also been an advocate and activist for impoverished children in Jamaica and battered girls through her charity organization the " STRONG ONES UNITED". Etana has been actively offering her services and time to various charity organizations for Jamaica, raising funds toward alleviating the problem of poverty in Jamaican garrison communities. A true ambassador for Reggae music and female in the music industry, she is relentless in spreading her message of "unconditional love" through positive music with the hope of uplifting her audience from any situation that render them weak or hopeless. Prepare yourself for the Etana Experience!
The Versatile and Entertaining Caribbean musical
sensation.
From the heart of the Caribbean and Africa comes Universal Xpression one of the most versatile, authentic and entertaining Caribbean show band in the Unites States. This Detroit based sensation stays true to its mission by emanating a variety of music, original and cover. You are whisked away on a sweet, melodious and danceable escapade of rhythms like Reggae, Soca, Zouk and Afrobeats. Their immense musical talents, rich backgrounds and over fifteen years of touring has enabled a most envied style and groove likening them to Morgan Heritage, Byron Lee and Burning Flames in one solid band with a multigenerational and multinational appeal.
This awesome four-member group features the talents and creativity of prolific songwriter, arranger and energetic showman Richard ‘Richie B’ Parris on keyboards, lead and back ground vocal. Keeping the pulse is the naturally gifted and flamboyant Noel Parris on drums. The Genius Oliver (Pluto) Mensah solidifies the foundation with his remarkable feel, quick fingers and flair on the bass and lead vocals. Complementing the rhythm section, is the amazing Avi Kayne with his nifty strums and awesome leads.
Universal Xpression is synonymous with quality, variety and originality. It is absolutely amazing to hear different styles of music done so well by one group. ‘Beautiful’ says Minister Louis Farrakhan, and ‘Amazing’ says Calypso Rose. The group has amassed a loyal following and numerous accolades in 20 years. ‘Best Live Music’ for nine consecutive years in the Detroit Carnival Parade. ‘Best Live Music’ Mecca Parade, San Francisco. Universal Xpression has released fifteen excellent albums of original music. In 1997 Universal Xpression had the number 1 and 2 Best Sellers in the Virgin Islands and Album of the Week on WAVS radio in Miami, Florida. From the Christmas on the Beach album, ‘Santa Baby’ was also Number 1 in 1997. In 1999, the single ‘Meow’ was number 1, and was featured for four weeks on BBC Radio in England and ‘Cest’ si bon’ was number 2 in the Virgin Islands. Besides appearing in numerous commercials, Universal Xpression has shared stages with such great Caribbean international performers as Percy Sledge, Beenie Man, Shaggy, Luciano, Calypso Rose, Mighty Sparrow, Arrow, Burning Spear, The Manhattans, Maxi Priest and Wayne Wonder.
Universal Xpression has thrilled thousands all over America, Canada and the Caribbean at numerous venues: High schools, colleges, universities, clubs, festivals, weddings, parades, corporate parties, and parks. In twenty great years the group has built a tremendous fan base which continues to grow with every performance. ‘Music is spiritual, emotional and mental food’ says Richie B. Seeing Universal Xpression live is an awesome experience of strong and beautiful vocals, sweet harmony, solid and tight groovy music topped off with wonderful showmanship. The music flows through them and you are embraced and involved in the mental, physical, educational and emotional awe. Universal Xpression is ultimately satisfying.
From the heart of the Caribbean and Africa comes Universal Xpression one of the most versatile, authentic and entertaining Caribbean show band in the Unites States. This Detroit based sensation stays true to its mission by emanating a variety of music, original and cover. You are whisked away on a sweet, melodious and danceable escapade of rhythms like Reggae, Soca, Zouk and Afrobeats. Their immense musical talents, rich backgrounds and over fifteen years of touring has enabled a most envied style and groove likening them to Morgan Heritage, Byron Lee and Burning Flames in one solid band with a multigenerational and multinational appeal.
This awesome four-member group features the talents and creativity of prolific songwriter, arranger and energetic showman Richard ‘Richie B’ Parris on keyboards, lead and back ground vocal. Keeping the pulse is the naturally gifted and flamboyant Noel Parris on drums. The Genius Oliver (Pluto) Mensah solidifies the foundation with his remarkable feel, quick fingers and flair on the bass and lead vocals. Complementing the rhythm section, is the amazing Avi Kayne with his nifty strums and awesome leads.
Universal Xpression is synonymous with quality, variety and originality. It is absolutely amazing to hear different styles of music done so well by one group. ‘Beautiful’ says Minister Louis Farrakhan, and ‘Amazing’ says Calypso Rose. The group has amassed a loyal following and numerous accolades in 20 years. ‘Best Live Music’ for nine consecutive years in the Detroit Carnival Parade. ‘Best Live Music’ Mecca Parade, San Francisco. Universal Xpression has released fifteen excellent albums of original music. In 1997 Universal Xpression had the number 1 and 2 Best Sellers in the Virgin Islands and Album of the Week on WAVS radio in Miami, Florida. From the Christmas on the Beach album, ‘Santa Baby’ was also Number 1 in 1997. In 1999, the single ‘Meow’ was number 1, and was featured for four weeks on BBC Radio in England and ‘Cest’ si bon’ was number 2 in the Virgin Islands. Besides appearing in numerous commercials, Universal Xpression has shared stages with such great Caribbean international performers as Percy Sledge, Beenie Man, Shaggy, Luciano, Calypso Rose, Mighty Sparrow, Arrow, Burning Spear, The Manhattans, Maxi Priest and Wayne Wonder.
Universal Xpression has thrilled thousands all over America, Canada and the Caribbean at numerous venues: High schools, colleges, universities, clubs, festivals, weddings, parades, corporate parties, and parks. In twenty great years the group has built a tremendous fan base which continues to grow with every performance. ‘Music is spiritual, emotional and mental food’ says Richie B. Seeing Universal Xpression live is an awesome experience of strong and beautiful vocals, sweet harmony, solid and tight groovy music topped off with wonderful showmanship. The music flows through them and you are embraced and involved in the mental, physical, educational and emotional awe. Universal Xpression is ultimately satisfying.
ROOTS VIBRATIONS
Detroit Music Awards Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012 & 2013 – Outstanding Reggae Band
HISTORY
Roots Vibrations is a musical force that provides authentic Caribbean music. Made up of members from the exotic islands of the Caribbean and the funky streets of Detroit, this band will stimulate your senses with positive roots music. Roots Vibration’s sound is uplifting and fun, and features creative and seasoned musicians who have a multigenerational and multinational appeal. They bring decades of experience and authenticity to the Reggae scene.
Roots Vibrations founder and lead singer Winfred J's Julien, hailing from Dominica, West Indies, has been the driving force in the regional Caribbean and Reggae scene for more than three decades. He produced and performed on eight original CD’s and has worked with dozens of international, national, and local artists, including Calypso Rose, Burning Spear and Yellowman. Roots Vibrations has delighted audiences throughout the U.S.and Canada with their unique blend of original and popular Caribbean music in Reggae, Zouk, Calypso, and Soca styles.
Demand for the band has continually increased. Over hundreds of shows and constant practice and rehearsals, Julien and the band have honed their product into a real tight crowd-pleaser. He said, "My philosophy is ensuring a great performance by each member of the band. The show stays interesting by playing a mix of original and familiar music in a variety of Caribbean styles. The awards we receive and the response we get is because the audience is our focus. Each show is unique to the vibe of the audience and the diverse new material we incorporate." Roots Vibrations' music is always uplifting, educational, and rhythmically stimulating for people of all descriptions. Any time Roots Vibrations performs, it's a good time.
PROFILE
Winfred J's “Stunna Ranks” Julien - Lead Vocals/Guitar
Hailing from the island of Dominica, Winfred developed his passion for music, listening to artists including Bob Marley, and Stevie Wonder as well as many of the pioneering Dominican musicians like Exile One and Grammax Intl. He became a master singer, songwriter, producer, bandleader, and recording artist. His performances as a member and leader in classic Detroit Reggae bands, including Sirius Roots, King David, Bandulu, Universal Spectrum, Expression and since 2000 Roots Vibrations, define him as a leader in the industry. He opened for superstars like Buju Banton, Shaggy, Shabba Ranks, and Sanchez. His recordings are entitled "Give Thanks" "Detroit Live Sessions, and "Only You," which was nominated in 2015 and “Higher Calling” was nominated in 2017 both for a Detroit Music Award. For many years he co-hosted and produced the "Reggae International" radio show on WDET with his brother, Michael "Mikie Dread" Julien.
La Keisha “Lionness” Tuggle – Lead & Background Vocals
A native of Detroit, MI with African, German and Native American Indian roots, La Keisha has a performance resume that spans various music genres such as: Jazz, Traditional, R&B, Gospel, Big Band, Classical Opera, Latin & Reggae. Aside from being a vocalist, La Keisha is also a songwriter, actress and dancer. Music captivated her at a very young age, and she aims for longevity in creating and performing music that has the ability to touch many lives across the world.
Ten Wade - Keyboards/Background vocals
Ten Wade is a keyboard specialist and is proficient in many other instruments as well. His influences include Herbie Hancock, Billy Preston, and Method Man, among others. He has toured extensively and has performed in many diverse arenas ranging from Broadway to Las Vegas to Hollywood. He has been on the local Detroit music scene since 1993 and is an extremely accomplished arranger and composer also. Ten is music director and offers his prodigious keyboard and vocal skills to Roots Vibrations.
Jamel Clarke - Bass Guitar
A multi-talented bass player and singer started as a teenage performer in Dominica. He has a groove with a touch that is genuine roots. He is influenced by Peter Tosh and Kymani Marley.
Mat Lemons – Drums
Has performed on stage and in the studio with such national acts as Stevie Wonder, Five Special, Johnny Griffith, and many others. He rocks with sweetness and has the rare ability to play reggae as well as the numerous other Caribbean rhythm styles, including Soca, Zouk, and Calypso.
Detroit Music Awards Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012 & 2013 – Outstanding Reggae Band
HISTORY
Roots Vibrations is a musical force that provides authentic Caribbean music. Made up of members from the exotic islands of the Caribbean and the funky streets of Detroit, this band will stimulate your senses with positive roots music. Roots Vibration’s sound is uplifting and fun, and features creative and seasoned musicians who have a multigenerational and multinational appeal. They bring decades of experience and authenticity to the Reggae scene.
Roots Vibrations founder and lead singer Winfred J's Julien, hailing from Dominica, West Indies, has been the driving force in the regional Caribbean and Reggae scene for more than three decades. He produced and performed on eight original CD’s and has worked with dozens of international, national, and local artists, including Calypso Rose, Burning Spear and Yellowman. Roots Vibrations has delighted audiences throughout the U.S.and Canada with their unique blend of original and popular Caribbean music in Reggae, Zouk, Calypso, and Soca styles.
Demand for the band has continually increased. Over hundreds of shows and constant practice and rehearsals, Julien and the band have honed their product into a real tight crowd-pleaser. He said, "My philosophy is ensuring a great performance by each member of the band. The show stays interesting by playing a mix of original and familiar music in a variety of Caribbean styles. The awards we receive and the response we get is because the audience is our focus. Each show is unique to the vibe of the audience and the diverse new material we incorporate." Roots Vibrations' music is always uplifting, educational, and rhythmically stimulating for people of all descriptions. Any time Roots Vibrations performs, it's a good time.
PROFILE
Winfred J's “Stunna Ranks” Julien - Lead Vocals/Guitar
Hailing from the island of Dominica, Winfred developed his passion for music, listening to artists including Bob Marley, and Stevie Wonder as well as many of the pioneering Dominican musicians like Exile One and Grammax Intl. He became a master singer, songwriter, producer, bandleader, and recording artist. His performances as a member and leader in classic Detroit Reggae bands, including Sirius Roots, King David, Bandulu, Universal Spectrum, Expression and since 2000 Roots Vibrations, define him as a leader in the industry. He opened for superstars like Buju Banton, Shaggy, Shabba Ranks, and Sanchez. His recordings are entitled "Give Thanks" "Detroit Live Sessions, and "Only You," which was nominated in 2015 and “Higher Calling” was nominated in 2017 both for a Detroit Music Award. For many years he co-hosted and produced the "Reggae International" radio show on WDET with his brother, Michael "Mikie Dread" Julien.
La Keisha “Lionness” Tuggle – Lead & Background Vocals
A native of Detroit, MI with African, German and Native American Indian roots, La Keisha has a performance resume that spans various music genres such as: Jazz, Traditional, R&B, Gospel, Big Band, Classical Opera, Latin & Reggae. Aside from being a vocalist, La Keisha is also a songwriter, actress and dancer. Music captivated her at a very young age, and she aims for longevity in creating and performing music that has the ability to touch many lives across the world.
Ten Wade - Keyboards/Background vocals
Ten Wade is a keyboard specialist and is proficient in many other instruments as well. His influences include Herbie Hancock, Billy Preston, and Method Man, among others. He has toured extensively and has performed in many diverse arenas ranging from Broadway to Las Vegas to Hollywood. He has been on the local Detroit music scene since 1993 and is an extremely accomplished arranger and composer also. Ten is music director and offers his prodigious keyboard and vocal skills to Roots Vibrations.
Jamel Clarke - Bass Guitar
A multi-talented bass player and singer started as a teenage performer in Dominica. He has a groove with a touch that is genuine roots. He is influenced by Peter Tosh and Kymani Marley.
Mat Lemons – Drums
Has performed on stage and in the studio with such national acts as Stevie Wonder, Five Special, Johnny Griffith, and many others. He rocks with sweetness and has the rare ability to play reggae as well as the numerous other Caribbean rhythm styles, including Soca, Zouk, and Calypso.
The
man who is Owen aka O.C. Roberts was busy honing his craft in Kingston, Jamaica
at The Bohemia, where he was the lead singer of the resident band The Mighty
Titans. This cohesive band backed many artists such as Marcia Griffith, Dennis
Brown, John Holt, Horace Handy, Mikal Rose, Bob Andy, The Wailing Souls, The
Mighty Diamonds, The Tamlins, Lee Scratch Perry, Ken Booth, Sasafros, and Beres
Hammond to name a few when they would perform at the club. While performing at
the Bohemia, O.C. was discovered by Dougie Rod Bryan, lead guitarist of The
Revolutioniares recording band, who’s drummer was Sly Dunbar, and keyboard
player was Ansle Collins. O.C. recorded the reggae version of Teddy
Pendergrass' smash hit “Wake Up Everybody” for Sonya Pottinger’s High Note
Label. That version went on to hit #16 on the British Reggae Charts. He went on
to record “Funny Feelings”, “Living a Life” and “Hey You” for record label
Electro Sun. All of those songs were backed by the tight sound of The
Revolutionaires. O.C. then moved to Detroit and met a friend named Ian Allen
(now at Universal Music Group) and Ira McLaughlin (formerly of Atlantic
Records), and crafted a Reggae band together named The Samaritans.
The Samaritans quickly became the number 1 reggae band in Detroit for several years. The band shared the stage with Dennis Brown, John Holt, Sugar Minord, Sammy Dread, and Sister Carol. The band won many awards for 'Best Reggae Band' including but not limited to 5 Metro Times Music Awards, 4 Local Source Awards, and 5 Metro Music Cafe Awards. O.C. individually won 3 Metro Times Awards for 'Best Reggae Vocalist’. His talents guided him into the studio with Motown hit songwriter Barrett Strong ("I Heard it Through the Grapevine") and Patrick Amae. Not only is O.C. a great vocalist, he is an amazing host. He hosted concerts for Capleton, Beanie Man, Shaggy, Burning Spear, and Sizzla.
After the success of the band, O.C. took a hiatus to focus on radio for 12 years at 90.9 FM. Today he is back in the studio working on a brand new album including songs, "Made in Jamaica", “Haters", "Cut them Off", and "Calling my name”. Singer/Songwriter
O.C.Roberts, has returned with full force and the fans are eager to hear his album and see this electrifying performer again. This is the most powerful album of his career to date! We are all excited to hear what O.C. has in store for us.
The man who is Owen aka O.C. Roberts was busy honing his craft in Kingston, Jamaica at The Bohemia, where he was the lead singer of the resident band The Mighty Titans. This cohesive band backed many artists such as Marcia Griffith, Dennis Brown, John Holt, Horace Handy, Mikal Rose, Bob Andy, The Wailing Souls, The Mighty Diamonds, The Tamlins, Lee Scratch Perry, Ken Booth, Sasafros, and Beres Hammond to name a few when they would perform at the club. While performing at the Bohemia, O.C. was discovered by Dougie Rod Bryan, lead guitarist of The Revolutioniares recording band, who’s drummer was Sly Dunbar, and keyboard player was Ansle Collins. O.C. recorded the reggae version of Teddy Pendergrass' smash hit “Wake Up Everybody” for Sonya Pottinger’s High Note Label. That version went on to hit #16 on the British Reggae Charts. He went on to record “Funny Feelings”, “Living a Life” and “Hey You” for record label Electro Sun. All of those songs were backed by the tight sound of The Revolutionaires. O.C. then moved to Detroit and met a friend named Ian Allen (now at Universal Music Group) and Ira McLaughlin (formerly of Atlantic Records), and crafted a Reggae band together named The Samaritans.
The Samaritans quickly became the number 1 reggae band in Detroit for several years. The band shared the stage with Dennis Brown, John Holt, Sugar Minord, Sammy Dread, and Sister Carol. The band won many awards for 'Best Reggae Band' including but not limited to 5 Metro Times Music Awards, 4 Local Source Awards, and 5 Metro Music Cafe Awards. O.C. individually won 3 Metro Times Awards for 'Best Reggae Vocalist’. His talents guided him into the studio with Motown hit songwriter Barrett Strong ("I Heard it Through the Grapevine") and Patrick Amae. Not only is O.C. a great vocalist, he is an amazing host. He hosted concerts for Capleton, Beanie Man, Shaggy, Burning Spear, and Sizzla.
After the success of the band, O.C. took a hiatus to focus on radio for 12 years at 90.9 FM. Today he is back in the studio working on a brand new album including songs, "Made in Jamaica", “Haters", "Cut them Off", and "Calling my name”. Singer/Songwriter
O.C.Roberts, has returned with full force and the fans are eager to hear his album and see this electrifying performer again. This is the most powerful album of his career to date! We are all excited to hear what O.C. has in store for us.
The Samaritans quickly became the number 1 reggae band in Detroit for several years. The band shared the stage with Dennis Brown, John Holt, Sugar Minord, Sammy Dread, and Sister Carol. The band won many awards for 'Best Reggae Band' including but not limited to 5 Metro Times Music Awards, 4 Local Source Awards, and 5 Metro Music Cafe Awards. O.C. individually won 3 Metro Times Awards for 'Best Reggae Vocalist’. His talents guided him into the studio with Motown hit songwriter Barrett Strong ("I Heard it Through the Grapevine") and Patrick Amae. Not only is O.C. a great vocalist, he is an amazing host. He hosted concerts for Capleton, Beanie Man, Shaggy, Burning Spear, and Sizzla.
After the success of the band, O.C. took a hiatus to focus on radio for 12 years at 90.9 FM. Today he is back in the studio working on a brand new album including songs, "Made in Jamaica", “Haters", "Cut them Off", and "Calling my name”. Singer/Songwriter
O.C.Roberts, has returned with full force and the fans are eager to hear his album and see this electrifying performer again. This is the most powerful album of his career to date! We are all excited to hear what O.C. has in store for us.
The man who is Owen aka O.C. Roberts was busy honing his craft in Kingston, Jamaica at The Bohemia, where he was the lead singer of the resident band The Mighty Titans. This cohesive band backed many artists such as Marcia Griffith, Dennis Brown, John Holt, Horace Handy, Mikal Rose, Bob Andy, The Wailing Souls, The Mighty Diamonds, The Tamlins, Lee Scratch Perry, Ken Booth, Sasafros, and Beres Hammond to name a few when they would perform at the club. While performing at the Bohemia, O.C. was discovered by Dougie Rod Bryan, lead guitarist of The Revolutioniares recording band, who’s drummer was Sly Dunbar, and keyboard player was Ansle Collins. O.C. recorded the reggae version of Teddy Pendergrass' smash hit “Wake Up Everybody” for Sonya Pottinger’s High Note Label. That version went on to hit #16 on the British Reggae Charts. He went on to record “Funny Feelings”, “Living a Life” and “Hey You” for record label Electro Sun. All of those songs were backed by the tight sound of The Revolutionaires. O.C. then moved to Detroit and met a friend named Ian Allen (now at Universal Music Group) and Ira McLaughlin (formerly of Atlantic Records), and crafted a Reggae band together named The Samaritans.
The Samaritans quickly became the number 1 reggae band in Detroit for several years. The band shared the stage with Dennis Brown, John Holt, Sugar Minord, Sammy Dread, and Sister Carol. The band won many awards for 'Best Reggae Band' including but not limited to 5 Metro Times Music Awards, 4 Local Source Awards, and 5 Metro Music Cafe Awards. O.C. individually won 3 Metro Times Awards for 'Best Reggae Vocalist’. His talents guided him into the studio with Motown hit songwriter Barrett Strong ("I Heard it Through the Grapevine") and Patrick Amae. Not only is O.C. a great vocalist, he is an amazing host. He hosted concerts for Capleton, Beanie Man, Shaggy, Burning Spear, and Sizzla.
After the success of the band, O.C. took a hiatus to focus on radio for 12 years at 90.9 FM. Today he is back in the studio working on a brand new album including songs, "Made in Jamaica", “Haters", "Cut them Off", and "Calling my name”. Singer/Songwriter
O.C.Roberts, has returned with full force and the fans are eager to hear his album and see this electrifying performer again. This is the most powerful album of his career to date! We are all excited to hear what O.C. has in store for us.
Shiloh Beaton was born and raised in the Detroit
Metropolitan area. However, both of her
parents immigrated to the United States and are of Jamaican heritage.
Shiloh just completed 8th grade at Keystone Academy, where she was a 3 year member of National Junior Honor Society.
At age 4, Shiloh was crowned Lil Miss Strawberry Princess at the Belleville Strawberry Festival.
By age 8, she was preforming in musicals for Spotlight on Youth in Canton, MI.
By age 10, she had the honor of performing at Disney World in Orlando.
She has opened for Kevin Little at the Detroit Caribbean Cultural Festival 2014, New Center Park, Detroit, MI.
She has sung the Star Spangled Banner for Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and City Council Member Raquel Castaneda-Lopez at the 2015 thru 2017 Naturalization Ceremony’s.
She has also sung the Star Spangled Banner and GOD Bless America for the Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Indians 2015 game Comerica Park, in Detroit. And for Veteran’s Day in front of Veterans from World War II, Pearl Harbor, Vietnam, Dessert Storm, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
Shiloh appeared on the American Girl web site.
She can also be seen in the Mike Posner music video, Be As You Are. And in the Gold Star Chili, Chili Mac is Back commercial.
Shiloh is a 3-year member of the Michigan Opera Theater Children’s Chorus – Principal (main) Choir, where she performs at the Detroit Opera House.
She is known as the little girl with the BIG voice.
Shiloh just completed 8th grade at Keystone Academy, where she was a 3 year member of National Junior Honor Society.
At age 4, Shiloh was crowned Lil Miss Strawberry Princess at the Belleville Strawberry Festival.
By age 8, she was preforming in musicals for Spotlight on Youth in Canton, MI.
By age 10, she had the honor of performing at Disney World in Orlando.
She has opened for Kevin Little at the Detroit Caribbean Cultural Festival 2014, New Center Park, Detroit, MI.
She has sung the Star Spangled Banner for Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and City Council Member Raquel Castaneda-Lopez at the 2015 thru 2017 Naturalization Ceremony’s.
She has also sung the Star Spangled Banner and GOD Bless America for the Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Indians 2015 game Comerica Park, in Detroit. And for Veteran’s Day in front of Veterans from World War II, Pearl Harbor, Vietnam, Dessert Storm, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
Shiloh appeared on the American Girl web site.
She can also be seen in the Mike Posner music video, Be As You Are. And in the Gold Star Chili, Chili Mac is Back commercial.
Shiloh is a 3-year member of the Michigan Opera Theater Children’s Chorus – Principal (main) Choir, where she performs at the Detroit Opera House.
She is known as the little girl with the BIG voice.
Zion Lion Sunday Aug 13th @ 7pm
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