Dancehall soundclash promoters Irish and Chin have announced that this year’s 10th annual World Clash-New York will be the final installment of the event they do. The three-tiered show, titled Game Over, takes place November 24 at Amazura, in Queens, New York. Vintage Cup Clash features outrageous “Don Gorgon” deejay Ninja Man selecting records, versus the U.K.’s “gentleman rudeboy” David Rodigan, while Celebrity Cup Clash sees Beenie Man battle Tony Matterhorn. Finally, The Main Event features past champions Black Kat (2003, 2004), Mighty Crown (1999), Bass Odyssey (2001, 2006), Rebel Tone (2002), and Sentinel (2005). “We are extremely ecstatic about closing out World Clash,” says Garfield “Chin” Bourne. “Our dedicated fans deserve to experience the best in soundclash entertainment, while being a part of history.”

According to Sharlene at Portmore Suss, deejay Queen Ifrica is blowing up big-time in JA, as witnessed by the crowds amassed at her video shoot for “Don’t Bleach.” Unlike previous female MCs that have made sexuality their main selling point, Ifrica’s style is closer to conscious artists Sizzla or Tony Rebel. “Jamaican people, dem love her,” Sharlene remarked. “Right now, it look like she is the female artist of the year. Derrick Morgan must proud of him daughter.” 

Mr. Vegas.

Mr. Vegas has a new album on Delicious Vinyl. Hot It Up features his recent hits “Hot Wuk” and “Tek Weh Yuh Self.” Mr. Vegas is the executive producer of the project, which also includes productions from Sly & Robbie and Stephen McGregor, plus vocal appearances from Jovi Rockwell, Lexus, and Vybz Kartel. 

Although Ninja Man’s career was originally propelled by graphic “gunman” lyrics, his first U.S. concert 15 years may show the artist turning over a new leaf. Decked out in all white clothing, Ninja declared to a Jamaican Star reporter, “Mi a set a different example, so di yout dem can see outta a evil come good. My aim is to work wid di government for a better country. I want to set an example, not for myself, but for the yout who are the future.” He’s done a turnabout like this before. In 1997, he christened himself Brother Desmond and released a gospel album.

A new Jamaican Reggae Academy has been established, and consists of singers, songwriters, record producers, studio engineers, artist managers, agents, radio personalities, nightclub owners, deejays, and entertainment journalists. The body will nominate artists and albums for the first annual Reggae Academy Awards, to be held in February 2008 at the National Indoor Sports Centre. “There are 34 categories that will be awarded, including two People’s Choice awards, and the awards will be voted on by the Reggae Academy members,” said Carmelita Riley, attorney and administrative assistant for the Reggae Academy. 

For a limited time, Danger Zone Music is offering free downloads of Jah Cure’s first singles recorded since his release from prison. “My Life” is a somber reflection of the artist’s life experiences, while “Freedom” is a celebration of his emancipation, in which Cure gives thanks for the prayers of his supporters.

A Rep JA Clothing Design.

United States-based Rep JA Clothing features popular Jamaica dancehall slang expressions on its new t-shirt line. Dancehall songs and popular phrases such as “Sell Off,” “Tek Weh Yu Self,” “Badman Forward, Badman Pull-up,” and “Goodas Fi Dem” inspire the designs. Artists Voicemail, Vegas, Black Bling, Twin Of Twins, Lexus, Mr. Peppa, and Junko are endorsing the line.

Finally, a quick look at the top five singles in JA and the U.K.:

Jamaica Dancehall Charts
1. Chuck Fender “Caah Kool” (Birchill)
2. Busy Signal “The Days” (Daseca)
3. Munga “Wine Pon It” (Casper Production)
4. Anthony B “Tease Her” (Trinity 7)
5. Cham “Conscience” (Don Corleon)

BBC 1Xtra Dancehall Charts
1. Tarrus Riley “She’s Royal” (VP)
2. Jah Cure “Sticky” (Danger Zone)
3. Collie Buddz “Mamacita” (Sony)
4. Damian “Jr Gong” Marley “Something For You” (Tuff Gong)
5. Cham “Conscience” (Don Corleon)