Connecticut News

Greetings Music Lovers! First and foremost let me take this time to send my condolences to all the families and friends that lost loved ones in the vicious attack on that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. It's such a shame that mankind hasn’t realized that no matter how big the problem is, there is always a solution. There is tremendous speculation as to who is responsible and why it was done. Nevertheless, we all know deep down in our hearts, that it was not necessary. Too many innocent people lost their lives, and the question still remains, "Why?" I wish that we can all find the strength to stand strong; we're wounded but not defeated.

BARRY G & DAVID RODIGAN, OH WHAT A NIGHT

For those of you who are real Reggae music lovers, Barry G and David Rodigan are real household names. These are probably the two most respected Radio Personalities in Reggae music. Both have excellent credentials under their belts and are regarded as Ambassadors of Reggae Music. Barry G lives in Jamaica and David lives in England. Each individual was responsible for playing the best music on the air, and they wanted to play with each other live. The news finally got to the public, and everyone wanted to see the two giants in a friendly radio clash. Their wish was granted, and both gentlemen agreed to do this for the love and respect of the music and for each other. It was in the early 1980s that Barry G and David Rodigan had their big world clash. It is still one of the biggest events in the history of reggae music. For the first time, two champions from separate countries came together and enlightened the reggae world with the best they have to offer. There spun dub plate after dub plate, tunes after tunes, and everyone enjoyed the session.

Recently they both reunited. As expected, there were people from all walks of life. Hartford was in for a treat on Labor Day weekend. After hearing about the one earlier in NY, people were anticipating one of the best shows on earth. Rodigan & Barry G did just that; they played music from back in the days up to the current time. Both individuals even had a little dance contest. Of course Barry, being from Jamaica where he see all the latest moves, was the winner. Each gentleman garnered much respect from the audience and from each other.

The music was clean, as well. Barry G noted that, "if you can't play a tape of Barry G and David Rodigan in the presence of your children, then it's not worth playing." These two giants set the standard for clean music. You never heard profanity or lewd lyrics in any of the music that they played. My hat goes off to both of these gentlemen for their professionalism and love for the people and the music. Big up to J & C promotions, Black Hustler and Steppin Razor Sounds (Peter Tosh's children). They provided the early music. Hopefully we will see more of this sort of playing from the soundmen across the entire industry. Music officials are now cutting down on the use of profane languages on records and on stage shows. It's about time.

NEW ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY COMING OUR WAY

There is a new company called Maxwell Entertainment. This company will be an umbrella company for a record label, management firm, and promotion company. It will be based in NY and will do business all over the world. There will be local and international artists under this company that will be taking the world by storm. If you want to get more information, log on to Maxwellentertainment.com. There are plenty of goodies lined up for the future with this company.

OTHER BITS & PIECES

W.E.S.U. 88.1 FM is finally back on the air after the big move.

There is a big rumor going around about Whitney Houston. It's been said that she is no longer with us, however, that's just a rumor. Everyone was concerned with her tremendous weight loss and personal problems. Whitney is fine and is doing well.

Warrior King is still the #1 artist in the area with his tune "Virtuous Woman."

Papa San (he just lost his brother) will be making his Gospel debut in Hartford soon.

Beres Hammond, Luciano, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer are slated to come to Connecticut soon, of course at different time and not together. That would be a good show wouldn't it?

That's all for now folks. Take care and GOD Bless. Keep everyone in your prayers.

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Originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, Donovan Longmore moved to Connecticut where he hosts a radio show on WFCS (Saturdays 2-4 pm) and another one on WESU 88.1 in Middletown, CT (Sundays 5-8 pm), both entitled "Reggae Voyage." The shows’ objective is to promote positive Reggae and give the listening audience what they want to hear. 

Longmore has won numerous awards, trophies, and plaques for his continued service to the community. Additionally, he is a promoter for the Reggae Summersplash Festival in Hartford and is a self-described community activist and Reggae fanatic!