Cheese-on-bread!

LOUD Concert a Hit

2011-08-06T12:16:00.005-04:00

It was big and it was loud. Rihanna showed the 25, 000 strong crowd at the Kensington Oval why she's an international sensation by wowing them with her string of hits.

I wasn't able to attend but everyone I knew who was in attendance woke up happy this morning.

Good job, Ri-ri. I can only imagine how difficult it is to perform in front of a home crowd.

Images: Rihannadaily.com

Only a few hours to go...

2011-08-05T15:03:00.003-04:00

Well, peoples, in about four hours Kensington Oval will come alive with the sounds of Rihanna's Loud concert.

An estimated crowd of 25,000 is expected to attend the concert and persons from other islands have been flying in all week to attend what is probably the most high profile event held here.

Meantime, Ri-ri is enjoying her week at home, shooting a documentary and soaking up some sun.

Good luck tonight, Ri-ri!

Cover Drive opening for Rihanna's Loud Concert in Barbados

2011-08-01T21:08:00.003-04:00

Meet Cover Drive, the Bajan pop/hiphop group that will open for Rihanna at her Loud concert at Kensington Oval on Friday. Enjoy their hit Lick Ya Down below.

Wet, wet Kadooment

2011-08-01T19:50:00.005-04:00

It was a wet, wet Kadooment here in Bim today, but no rain could stop this jam as thousands of revellers took to the streets.

Over 20 bands wined and "jonesed" their way from Warrens to Spring Garden, and even Bajan superstar Rihanna made it out in the showers to play 'mas.

Congrats to Edwin Yearwood, whose Cova de Road emerged the winner in the Road March Competition, and to Rupee and Mr. Dale, whose hits I Am a Bajan and Wow respectively tied for second place.

And, earlier I forgot to congratulate Pic-O-de-Crop winner David "Popsicle" Hall, the first timer who beat out about four former monarchs to cop the title. He gave a fantastic performance on Friday night.

Anywho, I have some more photos of today's revelry on the road to share with you, and then, next stop, Rihanna's Loud concert on Friday! It's gonna be a fun week, peoples.

Image: www.nationnews.com/http://theybf.com

Storm warning

2011-07-31T05:27:00.003-04:00

Image: National Hurricane Centre

Kadooment Day revelry could be seriously hampered by a tropical wave heading this way.

According to the latest advisory from the Barbados Met Office: "The strong tropical wave now located about 700 miles to the east-southeast of Barbados continues to show signs of organization. Environmental conditions remain favourable for a tropical depression to form during the next 24 hours or so, as the system moves towards the west-northwest at about 15 to 20 mph. On its present track, the leading edge of the cloud mass will begin to affecting Barbados by tomorrow afternoon, with some pockets of moderate to heavy showers, isolated thunderstorms and occasional gusty winds spreading across the island. Indications are that some of this activity will persist into Monday."

Well, folks, you know the drill. Keep tuned to the media for details and put all the usual preparations in place. Be safe out there.

God is good

2011-07-31T04:37:00.006-04:00

What could have been the Caribbean's worse air disaster since the Cubana crash in the 1970's was thankfully a simply a close call for over 160 persons travelling on a Caribbean Airlines flight from New York to Guyana on Saturday morning.

Apparently, the pilot overshot the runway and the plane skidded out of control, barely stopping in time before plummeting down a 200 foot ravine.

Wuhloss. Repeat after me .... God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good!

BIM is abuzz

2011-07-29T15:33:00.003-04:00

Well, folks, it's a hot, long, festive weekend ahead as we move into the final phase of Crop Over.

A few minutes ago, soca star Ruper "Rupee" Clarke was crowned The People's Monarch for 2011, netting BDS$25, 000 for his song I Am A Bajan. Congrats, Rupee!

Tonight, nine contenders will attempt to unseat last year's Calypso Monarch The Mighty Gabby and grab prize money and a Kia Sportage in the Pic-o-de-Crop Finals at Kensington Oval.

They are: AC (Cave Shepherd All Stars); Chrystal Cummins-Beckles (Cave Shepherd All Stars); De Announcer (Cave Shepherd All Stars); Adonijah (De ADC Building Digicel Big Show); TC (De ADC Building Digicel Big Show); Kid Site (Bacchanal Time); Khiomal (Celebration Time); Blood (Headliners); Popsicle (House of Soca) After the Finals and in the early hous of Saturday, thousands will parade in the streets at the Fore-day Morning Jam until the sun rises. Later that day, Spring Garden Highway will come alive with local food, arts and craft at Bridgetown Market.

On Sunday, Kensington Oval will be the place to be for Cohoblopot and Monday is the big jum-up day, Kadooment (barring the impending storm washing the day out.)

Word on the street is that local superstar Rihanna will be in for the festivities, ahead of her big LOUD show at the Oval on August 5. I'll be out with my camera in case Ms. Fenty decides to 'work' it on the road.

Speaking of Ms. Ri-ri, her show is sold out. Every ticket is gone, even some $1000 one I heard were floating around.

I'll keep you posted on some of the happenings this weekend. Have a safe one, peoples!!!

Fustic House - A slice of paradise

2011-07-19T12:50:00.009-04:00

Hi, peoples. Hope all's well with you and yours.

I'm starting my summer blogging session off with a look at one of the best kept secrets in the north of Barbados, the luxurious Fustic House in Half Moon Fort, St. Lucy.

I first saw images of this exclusive hideaway in a local tourism magazine, and I was so blown away that I visited its website to see more.

I hope to visit the property in the near future and bring you a review and some photos of this slice of paradise, but for now here are a few images courtesy of Fustic House's PR team. (Thanks, Jenny!)

Incidentally, Fustic House has a new Executive Chef, Stephen Bredemear.

The British born Stephen lives in St Peter with his Barbadian wife and their son Tyler.

Trained in the UK, Stephen spent ten years from 1985 absorbing the best European experience at four separate “Relais & Chateau” hotels with Michelin stars. First, the Hotel De La Plage, Brittany, where he trained under Laurent Ferre, then Bishopstow House Hotel in Warminster, and then the much-loved Chewton Glen Hotel in Hampshire. Stephen’s European education was finished off at the De Vere Royal Bath Hotel, Bournemouth, one of England’s oldest 5 star hotels.

In 1997, he headed for Bermuda, where he was appointed Executive Head Chef at Once Upon A Table in Devonshire, and also ran their outside catering arm for corporate events as well as state dinners for the Premier of Bermuda.

Three years later, he was appointed as Head Chef at Tamarind Cove Hotel, Barbados. He was employed for several years as Executive Chef at the new Calabaza Restaurant and in 2008, nominated Head Chef at Cove Spring House. During his time there, Stephen cooked for Royalty, celebrities and captains of industry.

Sounds like the guests at Fustic House are in good hands.

TK Toppin at AnimeKon 2011

2011-07-04T13:48:00.006-04:00

I managed to check out AnimeKon last weekend and it was quite a departure from reality. I had no idea there were so many gamer, sci-fi and anime fans in Barbados! The outfits the young peole were wearing were crazy and entertaining for sure.

Sci-fi author TK Toppin was there promoting her debut novel The Lancaster Rule, and I took a shot of her as she was autographing a book for an eager customer.

Her second novel, The Master Key, a sequel to the Lancaster Rule, is now available online and will be in print format in late August.

Good luck, TK!

Work of local Sci-fi Author to be featured at AnimeKon

2011-06-21T13:34:00.005-04:00

Hi, peoples. You alL know I love my books and also supporting local talent, so here's some info on a local writer I mentioned earlier, TK Toppin. She's participating in the upcoming AnimeKon on July 2 and 3:

When the annual Animation and Gaming convention AnimeKon comes off on July 2 and 3 at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, local author, TK Toppin, will be one of its main exhibitors.

Ms. Toppin will be promoting her debut science fiction (SF) romance novel The Lancaster Rule, published by Champagne Books of Canada.

AnimeKon fans will also have an opportunity to chat with TK Toppin about the other two books in the Lancaster trilogy – The Master Key and The Eternal Knot.

“Attending AnimeKon will be my first public appearance since I started writing seriously. I hope the show is well attended and I look forward to meeting and greeting SF enthusiasts,” Ms. Toppin said.

The Lancaster Rule can be purchased from DAYS Bookstore, Independence Square and Zen Bookstore, 8th Avenue, Belleville.

The Master Key will be available in ebook format in July from the Amazon, OmniLit, Fictionwise and All Romance Books websites, with the paperback version hitting bookstores in August. The Eternal Knot is due to be published in early 2012.

AnimeKon will be open to the public on July 2 from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and on July 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Good luck with the writing, TK!

Rihanna to get LOUD in Barbados

2011-06-15T18:56:00.004-04:00

I knew this day was going to come eventually.

The Barbados Tourism Authority revealed today that it has signed a multi-year deal with local superstar Rihanna to exclusively promote Barbados as a tourist destination.

In a press release today, it stated that the three-year partnership officially kicks off in Barbados on August 5, 2011 with a full-length concert of her current “Loud” tour produced by the BTA and Roc Nation.

“Barbados is a place like no other and one of the reasons for this is the spirit and national pride of our people,” said Rihanna. “I want each and every visitor to this beautiful island to experience what makes this destination different from all others and that is the spirit and warmth of my fellow Barbadians.”

The BTA release further noted that as an ambassador for Barbados, over the next three years, Rihanna will exclusively promote the destination through advertising campaigns, promotional appearances and via her social media presence.

In addition to her concert in Barbados this summer, Rihanna will promote travel to the island from Brazil during her appearance on tour in September.

Well, this should be interesting. She's brave for sure, because you know what they say about a prophet in his own land. I'm sure they'll be a massive crowd in attendance for sure, definitely the Oval will be needed as a venue for this one.

I'll be sure to bring more on this mega event as time goes on.

Summer fun reading

2011-06-10T16:35:00.003-04:00

I just finished reading a great science fiction novel written by a Bajan! It's called The Lancaster Rule, the first in a trilogy by local writer TK Toppin.
Check out the book trailers for the Lanacaster Rule and its successor, The Master Key.

Miles Robertson's quiet revolution

2011-06-01T12:02:00.003-04:00

Although he's not as visible as his compatriots Rihanna, Shontelle or Hal Linton, musician Miles Robertson has been quietly making his mark as the backing keyboardist for British sensation and Grammy Award winner, Adele.

Robertson, who is a producer, engineer, drummer, violinist and musical director, has been performing with Adele since September 2008. He has appeared on popular TV shows such as Saturday Night Live, the View, Dancing With The Stars, as well as at the Grammy Awards with Sugarland.

His breakthrough to the international music stage came in 2005 when he toured as a backing musician for Atlantic Record's soca artiste Rupee. Rupee, who is also Barbadian, is known for his hits Tempted To Touch, which featured on the soundtrack for the Brett Ratner film After the Sunset.

Enjoy Miles and Adele below.

Rihanna's 'Man Down' video is here!

2011-06-01T11:31:00.005-04:00

Rihanna - Man Down (Video) [World Premiere] by FMVCH

The video for Rihanna's new hot single 'Man Down' premiered last night on BET's 106 and Park.

I'm especially pleased because the song was co-written by fellow Bajan artiste (and yes, Cawmerian)Shontelle Layne.

Good job, girls! Keep that blue, yellow and black flying!

No Ordinary Show

2011-05-18T02:46:00.001-04:00

John enjoying some Bajan hospitality

I began yesterday as a John Legend fan. I woke up this morning in love with John Legend. (Just kidding, hubby, lol)

But seriously. John Legend put down a performance out of this world last night at the Wildey Gymnasium. From the first note of When I Used To Love You to the final note of Stay With You, he had the large crowd eating out of his hands.

Opening act Philip 7 and Masala did a sterling job as well, and the high point for me was 72-member strong St. Leonard's Boys' Choir accompanying Philip 7 on the new single Blame It On Love.

John Legend sauntered on to the stage around 9:00 p.m. and staked his claim in the hearts of his fans. Did I mention he's not exactly hard on the eyes?

His band did an excellent job, but for me it was about the man and his piano. It was on sale after the show for $37,000, by the way.

The entertainer belted out hit after hit from his three albums, and the crowd screamed as the familiar strains of Ordinary People, So High, Green Light, Can't Be Your Lover, This Time and others rang out.

One lucky lady got a chance to slow dance with the singer and received a kiss and a rose. I wonder if she's recovered by now.

Wuhloss. The show was worth every penny and then some. Actually, I think I might owe John some money back. I hope to see him again in Bim one day.

John Legend's coming, y'all!

2011-05-09T12:47:00.004-04:00

Prepare to "get lifted" when Grammy award-winning musician John Legend performs in Barbados tomorrow night at the Wildey Gymansium.

The star's performance will be preceded by local sensation Masala.

I've enjoyed John Legend's music for years and I'm really looking forward to this performance. Hopefully the weather will cooperate!

Caption It!

2011-05-04T20:08:00.001-04:00

Go ahead, y'all, caption this photo of Rihanna taken earlier today.

Obama gets Osama...and Trump too

2011-05-03T10:55:00.006-04:00

When I heard on Saturday night that Osama Bin Laden had not only been found but had been killed, I almost said..."who dat?"

I mean, the US turned Afghanistan upside down for the past 10 years trying to find their once ally-turned terrorist, only to find him under their noses in suburban Islamabad in Pakistan. The same Pakistan, by the way, that was supposedly searching high and low for him as well. Not a good look, Pakistan...

Well, I can only hope that there aren't any reprisals as a result of bin Laden's death. I think the world needs a break from the senseless wars that have taken place in the last decade.

Americans are really something else. Obama has gotten lynched for trying to achieve universal health care for his citizens and now that his country's most wanted fugitive has been taken out under his watch, folks are shouting "four more years"....

Meanwhile, as a crowner to a politically-charged week, President Obama got a chance to stick it to his critics at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, especially 2012presidential hopeful, Donald Trump. I won't spoil it for you, you can watch it yourself. Too sweet....

Prince William and Kate Middleton marry

2011-04-29T09:31:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to the newly ennobled Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Princess Catherine, who tied the knot earlier today in probably one of the most highy-anticipated media events since the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009.

I was up at 5 a.m. to watch the arrivals and the procession of the bridal party to Westminster Abbey, and I'll tell you, I got a bit teary-eyed as I saw Prince William, who I swear I can remember the day he was born (God I'm getting old), walk into the church to begin a new chapter of his life. I was emotional too because it would have been great if his mother were alive to see the day.

Ah wells. Congrats to the happy couple, and this is where the fun now begins, guys!

Image: Just Jared

I'm Back......

2011-04-27T15:02:00.003-04:00

Hey my goodly peoples. Missed me? I've been taking a break from blogging and working on other projects.

I must admit I was tempted to come back and vent on all the crazy ish that has happened over the last few months. We've had talk about a silent PM; Redjet drama; and ongoing Mia Mottley vs OwenArthur vs Rawle Eastmond drama.

Don't even talk about the Shanique Myrie incident - wuhloss. To borrow from Beenie Man I was wondering "has the world gone mad?" And on top of all this, the same crazy world is scheduled to end on my b'day, May 21.

Anyhoo, I'm back for now and I hope you're all good out there. Thanks for your emails and a big bless up to my new subscibers. I'll tackle the above topics over the next few days.

In the meantime, enjoy a little workout from my girl Beyonce. It's her contribution to Mrs. Obama's get healthy campaign in the US. Laterz, si dieu veux.

Another Grammy for Rihanna

2011-02-13T22:50:00.003-04:00

Congrats to Bajan pop star Rihanna, who chalked up another Grammy at tonight's awards. She copped the award for Best Dance Recording for "Only Girl (In The World)").

I'm sure before the night is over Rih-Rih will take home a few more awards.

But for real, though, what on earth was she wearing on the red carpet? The dress looked like strategically placed bath tub bubbles. Well, she was in good company for odd dress of the night, because Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry and a few others looked like they were ready for Halloween.

More news later....

BMA Red Carpet - The couples

2011-01-12T15:24:00.004-04:00

And on to the couples. Thanks once more to Photoboss.

Velvet-voiced singer Dwane Husbands holds an armful of gorgeous on the red carpet.

I almost didn't recognise Biggie Irie wihtout his trademark cap. His companion is wearing one of the more unique dresses of the night.

Minister of Culture Stephen Lashley and his wife are looking dapper and coordinated.

Attorney and up-and-coming politico Santia Bradshaw is a head turner in this red and black ruffled number. Her boyfriend Tony Hoyos doesn't clean up too badly either.

This daring number looks good - on this young lady. It should never be accessorized with back fat.

Another unique, daring number. But I can hardly see past the eye shadow.

Full blown gorgeous dress.

Multiple BMA winner Anderson 'Blood' Armstrong and his date are cute in red.

BMA's Red Carpet - The men

2011-01-12T15:03:00.004-04:00

As promised, here are some more photos from the red carpet of the Barbados Music Awards 2011, again thanks to Photoboss.

These two are ready for their audition for Men in Black 3.

Different looks, different style, same cool effect. Though I'm not totally sold on the white shoes. Leave that for Richard Stoute, guy on right.

Why so serious, Ram? All that patting and cranking have you tired?

I'm not sure if this look was intentional so let's not call it a homage to Michael...

Things that make you go hmm on the St. John by-election trail....

2011-01-12T14:29:00.005-04:00

The by-election in the parish of St. John is in full swing, with the usual bickering and personal attacks that have come to personify Bajan election campaigns. Hardly any of the speakers are attempting to deal with the real issues that are affecting the rural parish, amd frankly I can't wait for January 20th to come just to get it over with.

For those persons not following the Barbadian political scene, the DLP is being represented by the widow of former Prime Minister, David Thompson, and the BLP by businessman Hudson Griffith.

The general consensus is that Griffith doesn't have a snowball's chance in hell to win the seat, since St. John has been a DLP stronghold for over 50 years. But, you never know in politics.

The comments being made on the campaign trail range from the ridiculous to the hilarious, with a good dose of defamatory on the side. Below are just some of the things that make me go hmmmm as I read the coverage.

1) Where have all these former BLP Cabinet ministers like Anthony Wood and Noel Lynch reapppeared from all of a sudden? Is their presence on the platform an indication that they plan to run in the next general election?

2) Why is the DLP treating the St. John Polyclinic like a political football? Either complete the structure or demolish it already!

3) Has roast breadfruit replaced corned beef and biscuits in politics in Bim?

4) Why is Opposition Leader Owen Arthur fixating on Mara Thompson being born in St. Lucia, when for decades he has been seen as a proponent of the CSME and CARICOM unity?

5)Why is the BLP drawing attention to Mrs. Thompson's land of birth when its own candidate was born in St. Vincent?

Just wondering....

Image: www.nationnews.com

Barbados Music Awards Red Carpet - The women

2011-01-11T13:52:00.011-04:00

No awards show is complete without red carpet coverage, and the Barbados Music Awards is no different. Here are photos of some of the ladies who graced the carpet, courtesy of PhotoBoss.

I'm not sure, but I think blue is her favourite colour....

Song bird Indra Rudder's (left) snug-fitting metallic dress falls short of looking glam because of its pairing with some rather sinister looking boots. Girl, you better run, PETA's coming your way....

Entertainer Ayana John nails it in this sparkly blue number.

NCF CEO Dr. Donna Hunte-Cox (right) and her companion look lovely, but they're in danger of being upstaged by their eyeshadow.

Singer extraordinaire Ria Borman looks every inch a star. I never realised how much she looks like M'onique....

Uhmm, poet lady whose name I can't recall, Halloween is long gone. Unless you're trying to match your makeup with your shoes....

Words fail me. Next.

What in the Bride of Frankenstein hell happened here? But she has such a sweet smile though.

Stop tugging the dress down. It was short when you left home. You look nice, though.

See, ladies. It's possible to be covered up and still look great.

Aww. This little angel stole the show. This is how you work a red carpet! Tomorrow, the men and couples.

You too can smell like Rihanna

2011-01-11T13:01:00.003-04:00

Well, home girl Rihanna is not only burning up the charts and winning awards like sand, she's now venturing into the area already explored by the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, J-Lo and Beyonce, a signature fragrance.

The scent Reb'l Fleur, which will hit Macy's stores on January 25, is also, if you recall, a statement tattooed on Rihanna' neck.

The perfume is said to be a mixture of her Caribbean upbringing with ripe fruits and sumptuous florals, as well as a musky mix of vanilla, patchouli and amber.

Sounds good. My birthday's coming up, btw....

Rihanna, Blood top BMA'S 2011

2011-01-11T12:56:00.004-04:00

Hey, peoples! It's January so you know it's time again for the annual Barbados Music Awards, which were held last Saturday evening at the Wildey Gym.

Bajan super star Rihanna headed the list of winners, landing a total of six. She took the awards for Entertainer Of The Year (female), Song Of The Year, Best Collaboration, Best Pop/Rock/Alternative/Dance Artist/Group and Album Of The Year/ Music Video Of The Year (female).

Following his successful run at Crop-Over 2010, Anderson “Blood” Armstrong landed five awards, including Producer Of The Year.

See a complete list of the winners below. Congrats to all!

Band Of The Year – krosfyah

Female Entertainer Of The Year – Rihanna

Male Entertainer of the Year – Blood

Instrumentalist of the Year – Arturo Tappin

Best Reggae/Dancehall (Artiste/Group) – Buggy Nhakente

Best Soca/Ragga soca/Calypso (Artiste/Group) – Anderson Blood Armstrong

Best New (Artiste/Group) – St Leonard’s Boys’ Choir

Best Gospel (Artiste) – Toni Norville

Best Soul/R&B (Artistes/Group) – Shontelle

Best Jazz (Artiste/Group) – Arturo Tappin

Best Rap/Hip Hop (Artiste/Group) – Danny Reid

Choir/Chorale Of The Year – St Leonard’s Boys’ Choir

Song Of The Year – Rihanna (Rude Girl)

Best Collaboration (Love The Way You Lie) – Eminem featuring Rihanna

Best Soca Single (Female) – Indrani (Fyah Wata)

Best Ragga/Mid-Tempo Single (Female) – TC (Down De Road)

Best Social Commentary (Male) – Red Plastic Bag (Signs)

Best Social Commentary (Female) – TC (Stimulus)

Best Pop/Rock/Alternative/Dance Single – Rihanna (Rude Boy)

Best Reggae/Dancehall Single – High Grade (Pressure Point)

Best Gospel/Inspirational Single – Toni Norville (Reach Out In Faith)

Pop/Rock/Alternative/Dance Artiste/Group – Rihanna

Compilation Of The Year (Various) – Soca Dons And Divas

Album Of The Year (Artiste/Group) – Rihanna (Rated R)

Producer Of The Year – Anderson Blood Armstrong

Songwriter Of The Year – Mr Dale

Music Video Of The Year (Male) – Edwin Yearwood (Chrissening)

Music Video Of The Year (Female) – Rihanna (Rude Boy)

Best Soul/R&B/Hip Hop Single – Shontelle (Impossible)

People’s Choice – High Grade

Happy New Year, y'all!

2011-01-07T15:12:00.003-04:00

Hey, my peoples! Happy New Year to you all. I've finally shrugged off the cobwebs of a warm and fuzzy Christmas and and am ready to face 2011. And how the year has started...

Two murders; a sick Cabinet member; the front bench Gods shining on Kellman at last and giving him a pick; Mara Thompson taking up the mantle of her late husband David in St. John - and it's only January 7!

As for the by-election in St. John, I wish Mrs. Thompson the best of luck. She's the last person I figured would end up in the political foray, but life is funny that way. Anyway, the seat is hers to lose, as it's been a DLP stronghold for the past 50 odd years.

I see that Opposition Leader Owen Arthur has declared that there will be no special treatment for Mara Thompson. He will be well advised to focus his attacks on the DLP and not on the still grieving widow Mara, because he might end up turning off the entire populace....

Top 25 Fave Bajan Christmas Songs

2010-12-24T02:51:00.004-04:00

Christmas is a beautiful time of year, and it's made even more so by the music of the holiday season, which can range from the heartwarming to the inspirational to the hilarious.

A few years ago I listed my top 20 favourite Christmas tunes, and it's only fair that I do a similar post on my favourite Bajan holiday songs. And to show that we doan mek sport here in Bim, I'm gonna do 25 songs.

Anyhoo, here goes....

25. Christmas Medley - Madd

24. Wuh Yuh Got to Gimme Fuh Christmas - Sach Moore & the Sandpebbles
23. Christmas Is Here - Kareen Clarke
22. Season of Love - Marissa Lindsay

21. It Doesn't Feel Like Christmas Without You - Rihanna

20. Happy Birthday Jesus - The Merry Men

19. I Want a Piece o' Pork - Scrunter
18. It's All About Christmas - The Merry Men

17. Watch Out - Allison Hinds & Peter Ram

16. It's Christmas - Kimberley Inniss
15. Christmas Road March - Madd

14. Why Can't This Christmas Feeling Go On - Bumba

13. Calypso Christmas - Blood
12. For Christmas - Director
11. Christmas Feeling - The Merry Men

10. Rock Steady Christmas - Richard Stoute

9. Things of Christmas - Draytons Two
8. You're Only Good To Me at Christmas Time - Tamara Marshall

7. Carolling, Carolling - Natahlee Burke

6. Put Christ In Your Christmas - John King
5. She Mistake Me Fuh Santa Claus - Madd featuring Eric Lewis

4. Maisy - RPB

3. It Really Feels Like Christmas - Kimberley Inniss

2. Little Drummer Boy - Natahlee Burke & Bigggie Irie

1. No Christmas Without You - Edwin Yearwood

And as a bonus, here's my fave adopted Bajan Christmas song:

Calypso Noel - Beckett (St. Vincent)

Well, my good people, here we are. It's now nearly 3:00 a.m. on Christmas Eve here in Bim and I still have a lot to do before I turn in for the night. But that's all part of the fun of the season.

So, Merry Christmas again, be safe out there, enjoy your time with friends and family and si dieu veux, I'll hear you all next week.

Merry Christmas....recession style

2010-12-06T09:36:00.013-04:00

Well, peoples, it's that holly, jolly time again. Although Christmas will always be my fave time of the year, this year feels a bit different because, well, let's face it, we're in a recession and most of us can't afford the usual "lavish and stavish" yuletide celebrations.

In last month's Budget, the Value Added Tax was increased by 2.5% and so several commodities are now more expensive to purchase. Thankfully, several businesses have chosen to absorb the VAT this month. They're not stupid, they know their sales will be seriously affected because shoppers will be watching every penny.

Anyhoo, I gave it some thought and I came up with some ways that we can still enjoy the holidays and not break the bank:

1) Re-gift. I know I'm going to take a lot of heat for this one. It's not something I generally advise but in this harsh economic climate, when choosing a gift for that friend or even the workplace gift-exchange, why not look to see what hidden treasures you might already have in your possession?

Now, there are some ground rules to follow for re-gifting. The item should be new and/or unused and please, please please....try to remember who gave it to you. Ain't nothing more embarrasing than giving a gift back to someone who gave it to you in the first place. Wuhloss. And don't even attempt to re-gift a present to someone who lives in your house. They will remember you got it from Aunt Joyce for your birthday last year....

2) Bargain shop. You only shop on Broad Street in Barbados, Frederick Street in Trinidad or the high street of whatever town you're from? Forget that. It's time to try the local markets and street vendors, the $2 or $3 store (you can make a gift basket) and the thrift shop.

3) Focus on the reason for the season. Christmas isn't all about shopping and spending loads of money. Take time to soak up the beautiful sights and sounds of the season. Almost every day a free concert will be held in one of the town centres - check the papers and go enjoy.

4) Recycle. Christmas is one of those seasons when Bajans like to buy new things, and hey, if you can afford to purchase that new living room suite you've had your eye on the entire year, who am I to stop you? But, wherever possible, spruce up your old stuff and save a buck or two.

5) Pot luck. Ahhh, food. The centrepiece of Christmas in Bimshire. The typical Christmas Day lunch here includes green peas and rice, macaroni pie, baked pork, ham, sweet potato pie, jug-jug, stuffing, vegetables and I could go on and on. As lovely as that all sounds, preparing all those dishes yourself is not only tiring, it's expensive. This year, why not join up with friends and family and have a potluck? It'll save time and money.

6) Be your brother's keeper. You may be feeling the economic pinch this year, but I guarantee there's someone in a worse position than you. This holiday season, give a donation to a charity or volunteer your time to a feeding programme.

7) Go to church. Trini soca legend Crazy sang that we need to put Jesus in our Christmas, and I couldn't agree more. To put the icing on the cake of your yuletide celebrations, go and give praise. This is the only time of the year that anyone can get me to wake up at 3:00 a.m. to prepare for a 5:00 a.m. service. But trust me, there's nothing sweeter than than pre-dawn Christmas breeze.

Enjoy, be safe and I'll be back soon with my fave Bajan Christmas songs.

A New Knight for Barbados

2010-11-30T07:51:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to the President of the Senate, His Honour Senator Dr. Branford Mayhew Taitt, who has had the national award of Knight of St. Andrew conferred on him "for his distinguished career and his outstanding service and contribution to Barbados and public life."

Below is the list of the other persons awarded in this years Independence Honours:

GOLD CROWN OF MERIT
For highly meritorious service or achievement in science, the arts, literature, sports, civic duties or any other endeavour worthy of national recognition.
(Number of Awards available: 4)

Colonel Leonard Cameron Banfield, LVO
For highly meritorious and distinguished military service.

Ms. Gail Elma Delores Brathwaite
For highly meritorious service to the financial services sector and her unswerving commitment to philanthropic work with the Barbadian diaspora in the United States of America.

Mr. St. Clair Leolan Harper, J.P.
For highly meritorious service as a funeral director and his contribution to the local transport sector.

Mr. Donald Hill
For highly meritorious service in the area of telecommunications development and his unswerving commitment to preserving the environment.

SILVER CROWN OF MERIT
For meritorious service or achievement in science, the arts, literature, sports, civic duties or any other endeavour worthy of national recognition.
(Number of Awards available: 4)

Mr. William Eustace Alleyne, BCH
For meritorious service to the development of still photography in Barbados and the Caribbean.

Mr. Ralph Anthony Jemmott
For meritorious service as an educator in particular his contribution as a historian.

Mr. Sylvester Earle Niles, J.P.
For meritorious contribution to education and the development of youth.

Miss Yvonne Veronica Walkes, J.P.
For meritorious work as a women’s advocate and a trade unionist.

BARBADOS SERVICE STAR
For meritorious work in the civil, fire, military, police, prison or other protective services or any other similar field of endeavour.
(Number of Awards available: 5)

Mr. Edwin Ebenezer Gilkes
For his significant contribution to the development of the local entertainment industry in particular the promotion of jazz music.

Mr. Keith Hyvestia Griffith
For his unswerving service to the development of sports in particular football and road tennis.

Captain Andrew Ricardo Headley
For his significant contribution to national security during the 2005 crisis at Her Majesty’s Prison Glendairy crisis.

Mr. Michael Anthony Young
For his significant contribution to the development of the water sports industry.

Miss Jean Mary Belling
For her immeasurable contribution as a Secretary in the public service for three decades.

BARBADOS SERVICE MEDAL
For meritorious work in the civil, fire, military, police, prison or other protective services or any other similar field of endeavour.
(Number of Awards available: 5)

Mrs. Dilease Vitella Chandler
For her contribution to the development of the students at the Roebuck/Louis Lynch Secondary school.

Mrs. Maizie Harewood
For her dedication and commitment to nursing as a public health sister.

Mr. Alvin Livinston McDonald Sobers
For his service to persons with disabilities.

Miss Marcella Cynthia Worrell
For her longstanding service to the National Conversation Commission, in particular her assignment at Ilaro Court.

Mr. Herbert Lawrence Walker
For his selfless contribution to the development of the members of the Royal Barbados Police Force’s band for over a quarter of a century.

BARBADOS BRAVERY MEDAL
For acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

(Unlimited awards available)
Fire Officer 246 Pernel Leeverne McClean
For his courageous act of saving the life of Miss Charlotte Parris whose vehicle careened into the Belle Gully during a flash flood on October 1, 2010.

Happy Independence, Barbados!

2010-11-30T07:43:00.003-04:00

On behalf of the Cheese-on-bread family, I would like to extend best wishes to all Barbadians at home and abroad as we celebrate another milestone in our development.

We celebrate today realising that we've had a very trying year and hoping that God's grace will pull us through as we continue to face harsh economic times. But, in all things, to God be the glory.

To all those persons, Bajan and otherwise, who have contributed to our development, we salute you.

Just to give you a snapshot of how Bajans celebrate their Independence Day; the Independence Parade at the Garrison Savannah will begin shortly at 8:00 a.m., and all the armed and unarmed units will put on quite a spectacular show there before marching down Bay Street to Government Headquarters, where the Prime Minister will be saluted.

All day long communities will be having sports and other fun activities and of course plenty of conkies, fish cakes and other delicacies will be consumed. In the east, the annual St. Philip Carnival will be taking place (from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)

Again, Happy Independence all, and stay safe!

Catching up

2010-11-26T10:44:00.003-04:00

Hey, peoples! Thought I had deserted you, right? I'm still here ticking along, busy, busy. I hope all my readers in the US had a happy Thanksgiving. I know most of you must be at the mall right now doing some serious Black Friday shopping.

So, hasn't the Caribbean been through the wringer lately? Between the cholera outbreak in Haiti, Hurricane Tomas dealing a harsh blow to St. Lucia and Kamla Persad-Bissessar eating her foot and then humble pie in Trinidad, there's been a lot to report on.

Added to that is the budget presentation in Barbados, of which I will speak later.

'Over in away,' Bajan superstar Rihanna scored an American Music Award for Best Soul/R&B female, and wuk up real bad in her opening act in the show. Congrats on the award, Rih-Rih. Now your Grammys have some company.

Late PM Thompson laid to rest

2010-11-03T15:39:00.006-04:00

Barbados' sixth Prime Minister, David Thompson, was laid to rest today at St. John Parish Church, after a moving two-hour funeral service at the historic Kensington Oval.

The service was preceded by the funeral procession from Downes and Wilson funeral home in Eagle Hall, to the Oval. Scores of Barbadians lined the streets to get a glimpse of the sombre spectatacle which accompanied the gun carriage bearing the former Prime Minister's body.

At Kensington Oval, dignitaries and the man-on-the-street gathered to pay their last respects. Some of the Heads of Government in attendance were PM Hubert Ingraham of the Bahamas; PM Denzil Douglas of St. Kitts; PM Tillman Thomas of Grenada; PM Baldwin Spencer of Antigua; PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and PM Bruce Golding of Jamaica.

Also in attendance were cricket great Brian Lara; international recording artist Rihanna; and World Champion hurdler, Ryan Brathwaite.

Image: The family of late PM Thompson and Cabinet colleagues escort the gun carriage bearing his body into Kensington Oval. (courtesy GIS)

Plans for PM Thompson's funeral underway

2010-10-28T01:28:00.003-04:00

Since being chosen over the weekend to coordinate the state funeral of Prime Minister David Thompson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Maxine McClean has held a number of press briefings on the activities leading up to the funeral next Wednesday at the Kensington Oval.

Here're the details in a nutshell, courtesy of the Government Information Service:

The Minister explained that as a lead-up to the funeral, there would be the lying-in-state and the provision of condolence books for signing at a number of locations. Starting on Thursday, October 28, the body will lie-in-state upstairs in the East Wing of Parliament where, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., there will be private viewing by dignitaries in the order of the Table of Precedence, from the Governor General to current and former Members of Parliament.

From 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. that same day, as well as on Tuesday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., members of the public may view the body upstairs the East Wing of Parliament.

The public will also have an opportunity to see Mr. Thompson on Friday, October 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at his alma mater, Combermere; the following day, Saturday, October 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the George Street Auditorium; and at the St. John Parish Church on November 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Persons will be able to sign condolence books at the following locations: downstairs the East and West Wings of Parliament on October 28 from 1100 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on October 29 and 30, and November 1 and 2.

Condolence books will also be placed at Government Headquarters for public officers on October 29 and 30, and November 1 and 2 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day; at the George Street Auditorium, on October 29 and 30, and November 1 and 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day; at Combermere School on October 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and at the Gall Hill Community Centre, St. John, on October 29 and 30, and November 1 and 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

And today she released that:

"With respect to the conduct of the service, a number of religious denominations will be represented. Dr. the Hon. John Holder will be the main celebrant. It is estimated that the duration of the service will be for one and a half hours and the service will be preceded by musical tributes beginning at 8:50 a.m. and this will be followed by the interment at the St. John’s Parish Church.”

Senator McClean indicated that many Barbadians were desirous of attending the funeral service, but stressed that admission to Kensington Oval would be by ticket only and persons would have to be seated by 8:30 a.m.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade mentioned that to facilitate persons attending the service the Transport Board would have a ‘Park and Ride’ system in operation. She indicated the sites would be the traditional locations: the National Cultural Foundation car park, the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc.’s Car park on Bay Street, the Wildey Gymnasium, Weymouth B and Queen’s College. The shuttle service begins at 6:00 a.m.

Next Wednesday is going to be a painful ordeal...

A Nation Mourns

2010-10-23T07:08:00.004-04:00

Prime Minister of Barbados, the Honourable David Thompson, has passed away.

According to reports, the Prime Minister died at his private residence in St. Philip at 2:10 a.m.

He was diagnosed in September with pancreatic cancer after undergoing medical tests since May.

At the moment, Cabinet is in session and we await word on who will be sworn in as the next Prime Minister of Barbados, more than likely DPM Freundel Stuart.

On behalf of Cheese-on-Bread, I wish to extend deepest condolences to the PM's family, friends, colleagues and to my fellow Barbadians at this difficult time.

Going with Owen....again

2010-10-18T12:16:00.003-04:00

Wuhlossssss. A day is a long time in politics in Bimshire. It's official, y'all. Mr. Owen Seymour Arthur is the new Leader of the Opposition Barbados Labour Party.

Here's the story in Nation News.com:

The vote to return Owen Arthur as leader of the Barbados Labour Party was a unanimous one.

George Payne told the Press today that Mia Mottley, the former leader, no longer commands the confidence of the majority of members in the parliamentary group. "Owen Seymour Arthur is the person we support...the necessary letter has gone to the Governor General and we await his decision with respect to that".

Arthur in accepting his selection by the group says no one had done more than him to facilitate Mottley, pointing out it was he who had first appointed her to his Cabinet serving as Minister of Education and Culture, Attorney General and Minister of Economic Affairs and later elevating to Leader of Government Business and Deputy Prime Minister.

Arthur says “ I really wished Mia Mottley would have led the people of Barbados to so cause them to forget about me”.

He promises to give his full attention to the leadership of the BLP. “I will give this my undivided attention. I will not be going to Antigua, I will not be doing any more consultancies. I will give this my undivided attention”.

The meeting to decide on the leadership of the BLP was held just after 10 a.m. Mia Mottley, the MP for St Michael North East, MP for St Thomas Cynthia Forde and MP for St James North Rawle Eastmond did not attend the meeting.

Along with Arthur, present were former Prime Minister Owen Arthur, George Payne, Ronald Toppin, Gline Clarke, William Duguid and Dale Marshall.

And again I say, wuhloss. They do my girl Mia real bad, though. I know people feel more confident with economist Arthur at the helm of the party because of the current environment, but I don't think she was given enough of a chance to show her worth.

It remains to be seen how Ms. Mottley will respond to this backraising (especially by her Deputy Dale Marshall). The way things are going, she may be back in the chair again by the time elections are next called, so who knows...

Rihanna the stylista

2010-10-05T13:35:00.003-04:00

offers her styling services to a select group of fans at Topshop’s Oxford Circus store on October 4 in London, England.

Five lucky girls who entered a recent Topshop competition won a meet-and-greet with the 22-year-old singer and a styling session with her inside the store’s personal shopping suite.

As an added bonus, they also got to keep the outfit Rihanna selected for them.

Good for the girls, but based on this outfit, I can only imagined what pieces Rihanna put together for the five. A definite demented elf chic is going on here...

Shuffling on...

2010-10-05T13:33:00.009-04:00

For the third time since capturing the Government in 2008, the Democratic Labour Party has reshuffled its Cabinet.

This time around, it's because ailing PM David Thompson has had to shed most of his portfolios. His role is now that of Prime Minister and Minister of National Security.

Here's the full list of Ministerial changes:

1. David Thompson – Prime Minister and Minister of National Security
• Senator Darcy Boyce – Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility Energy, Telecommunications, Immigration and Investment.
• Senator Harry Husbands – Parliamentary Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office

2. Freundel Stuart – Deputy Prime Minister, Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs

3. Christopher Sinckler – Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs
• Senator Jepter Ince – Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Affairs

4. Senator Haynesley Benn - Minister of Commerce and Trade

5. Ronald Jones – Minister of Education and Human Resource Development

6. Michael Lashley - Minister of Housing and Lands, Urban and Rural Development
• Patrick Todd – Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing and Lands, Urban and Rural Development with responsibilities for Urban and Rural Development

7. John Boyce - Minister of Transport and Works (In addition, Leader of the House)

8. Denis Lowe - Minister of Drainage, Water Resource Management and the Environment

9. Donville Inniss – Minister of Health
• Senator Irene Sandiford- Garner – Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Health

10. Richard Sealy - Minister of Tourism

11. Dr. David Estwick – Minister of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries, Industry and Small Business Development

12. Dr. Esther Byer- Suckoo - Minister of Labour

13. Steve Blackett – Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development

14. Stephen Lashley – Minister of Family, Culture, Sports and Youth

15. George Hutson- Minister of International Transport and International Business

16. Senator Maxine McClean – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

And in related news, apparently the Cabinet reshuffle didn't sit too well with former Minister of Economic Affairs, Dr. David Estwick. He had scheduled a press conference to express his thoughts on the matter, but apprently cooler heads prevailed and he was convinced not to go through with it.

I understand Estwick's pique over his perceived demotion, but really, how was he going to hold the PM to ransom over it?

Resign? He would only be cheating himself out of a place in Cabinet and relegating himself to the backbench.

Go independent? Independent Parliamentarians don't get very far in Bajan politics, and he knows it. Just ask Hammie-La...

Cross the floor? After his former colleague and leader Clyde Mascoll crossed over to the BLP anything is possible, but I somehow doubt Estwick would go that route. Though I would pay to see him and Owen Arthur trying to mesh their economic policies... Wuhloss.

Above all, Estwick would come over as the bas guy if he criticised his leader for changing his portfolio. Public sentiment is behind PM Thompson, and that's that.

Praying for the PM

2010-09-20T15:15:00.004-04:00

I'm asking all of you Cheese readers and Bajans in the diaspora to continue to pray for our Prime Minister David Thompson, who is battling pancreatic cancer.

This is indeed a trying time for the nation, but especiall fro his wife and children.

May God be with them all at this time.

Things we lost in the fire

2010-09-17T16:03:00.004-04:00

Greetings, people. Like many Barbadians, I'm still recovering from the grief, anger and pain wrought on the entire island by the desperate, criminal act of two young products of our society.

By now I'm sure you all know about the robery and fire-bombing of clothing store Campus Trendz fire on September 3 that took the lives of six young women: Nikita Belgrave, Shana Griffitth, Kelly-Ann Lynch, Pearl Cornelius, Kellishaw Oliverre and Tiffany Harding.

Although the loss of six lives in such a cruel and senseless way is more than enough, there are many other things I feel that we Bajans have lost.

For starters, we've lost our sense of security. It will be a long time before I can feel comfortable browsing the racks of a store, especially if it's one of the tiny, one-door establishments that abound in Bridgetown.

We Bajans have a lot of precepts about a whole lot of things, and most of them erroneous. "It can't happen here"; "we don't do those kinds of things" are some of the preconceived notions that have gone out the window since September 3.

Our innocence is gone, and while one can argue that that's not necessarily a bad thing, I think that's one of the things we had going for us as a nation.

To the families of the six young women, you have my deepest sympathy.

Poles apart

2010-08-20T14:43:00.004-04:00

I'm getting more and more concern about the politicising of issues in Barbados. I know we're in the hurricane season, but there're way too many storms in a teacup around here.

Between the housing debacle with the Minister and the former Chairperson of the NHC; the "was he or was he not put out of CBC" confusion with former Minister of Tourism Noel Lynch and a bunch of other squabbles that I can't even bother to recount, you would swear the elections were next year and not 2013.

Seriously, politicos, all yuh need to cease and desist. Opposition, do your job, but remember when you all were in power you did the same or worse.

Government, learn when to put up and when to shut up. I can't speak for everyone else, but I don't give a mongoose's *ss who has the insurance coverage for CBC, the NHC or BCSL, once they're covered.

What I want to know is when I'm gonna get some relief from high cost of food and other commodities. I want to know where de hell my $450 road tax goes, cause potholes opening up like gateways to another dimension on the streets. I want to know what you all plan to do about crime in this country.

Deal with the bread and butter issues, then you all could argue as wunnna like.

Top 10 Fave TV Shows - The 2010 edition

2010-08-20T12:52:00.013-04:00

A few years back I did a post on my favourite 80's television shows and I had a fun time reliving the memories.

You all know I'm an 80's baby, but let's face it - that decade is gone and it ain't coming back. So, with the fall tv season fast approaching, I thought I'd post up a list of the television shows I love to watch these days. Let's go....

10. The Gates - Although The Gates started off slowly, I'm still hanging in there because this show's premise of humans, vampires, werewolves and witches living side-by-side is bound to create some serious drama. Did I mention there's a succubus as well? Gives new meaning to the term suburbian hell....

9. Warehouse 13 - One of the most popular shows on the Syfy channel, Warehouse 13 has all the elements to make an enjoyable show. Check it out.

8. The Mentalist - I've had a crush on Simon Baker since I saw him loving up on Sanaa Lathan in the movie Something New. And his show isn't half bad either....

7. Modern Family - I love this cast. You've got the gay couple with the adopted Asian baby; the May-December marriage and the wannabe-cool dad who fails miserably. And Sofia Vergara? She makes it all worthwhile to watch.

6. V - I was a huge fan of the original V tv show, so I had to check this one out. So far, so good. And this version has Morris Chestnut!

5. Glee - I haven't enjoyed watching school kids dancing and singing this much since Fame. And the music will stay with you for days. But, kids and music aside, it's all about Sue Sylvester for me.

4. The Good Wife - Julianna Margulies of ER fame has made a comeback with this intense drama of a good wife gone bad - or at the very least back to work. It's riveting stuff, and investigator Kalinda Sharma is one serious character.

3. The Vampire Diaries - Can you tell I love vamp shows? I was ready to write off Vampire Diaries as Gossip Girl with fangs, but it surprised me. The acting is way better than I imagined, and the plots move at lightning speed. I can't wait till the show returns On September 9.

2. Cougar Tow - Cougar Town is one of the funniest shows on television, bar none. It's witty - love that Ellie - and just plain laugh out loud. And that Courteney Cox has obviously discovered the fountain of youth....

1. True Blood. Forget Twilight. This is how you serve up drama about vampires. With a stellar ensemble of characters - Lafayette! Eric! Pam! -True Blood is delectable till the last drop. (NB - This show is not kid's stuff, strictly R rated)

The ones to watch - literally:

The Event. As soon as I heard that one of my fave hotties Blair Underwood was cast in a show, as the President no less, I knew I had to add this show to my viewing list. It premieres on September 20 on NBC.

Nikita - The CW network is seriously stepping up its game with a new installment of the Nikita franchise. A remake of the 1997 tv series La Femme Nikita, this 2010 version features Maggie Q as an assasin gone rogue. The trailer looks tight. I'll be watching for sure. Check it on September 9 on the CW.

Love the Way You Lie

2010-08-20T12:31:00.004-04:00

Check out the video for Eminem's very disturbing yet evocative song "Love the Way You Lie" featuring Rihanna.

In the video are actors Megan Fox and the hardly recognisable Dominic Monaghan. He's sure come a long way from his Lord of the Rings hobbit days....

Wake Up, Everybody!

2010-08-20T12:10:00.004-04:00

Three of my fave singers - John Legend, Melanie Fiona and Common - recently did a remake of the legendary song "Wake Up, Everybody". Orignally performed by Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes, this stirring anthem has been covered by artistes from all genres.

Its message remains as relevant today as it was in 1975.

Reflect and enjoy.

Rihanna's a showstopper

2010-08-10T15:11:00.006-04:00

A red-headed Rihanna hit the New York restaurant Da Silvano's recently for a romantic dinner with her boyfriend Matt Kemp. Lawd, I'm still trying to get used to that fire engine red hair.....

Do you, girl.

Images: Young, Black and Fabulous

Crop Over Review

2010-08-05T12:09:00.015-04:00

Well, Crop Over done for another year, and it's back to reality after a few months of 'serious wukking'. I must admit that I was feeling the Crop Over spirit more so than last year, partly because the music was way better this time around.

Anyhoo, here's my list of the high and low lights of Crop Over 2010:

Highs

The Dream Box funeral. Wuhloss. Dem Madd Boys too sweet. For those of you who don't know what a Dream Box is, it's an electronic device used to access cable channels free of cost, and Bajans have been making it snort for years. Well, the lone tv station CBC found a way to shut it down, so for the past few months folks have been reduced to watching only the local channel 8 or paying for the cable packages.

The comedy duo of Eric Lewis and Kevin Hinds of Madd Entertainment cooked up a stirring tribute to the demise of the Dream Box, and it was a Crop Over hit.

Dale "Mr Dale" Rudder - Mr. Dale charmed soca fans a few years back with his smash Soca Junkie, and he was back this year with a song that was made to make waists wine, Drop It. And it netted him a second People's Monarch win as well.

Rick "Lil' Rick" Reid - I'm not a huge fan of Lil Rick. Though talented, he appeals to the lowest common denominator when wearing his DJ hat, and I'm really not into that scene. But there's no denying that in 2010 he meant business, with a whole album of hits, including Big Hail , What A Feeling and the infectious Go Down. Good job, Rick.

Anderson "Blood" Armstrong - 2001 was Blood's year. He not only captured the Party Monarch title, but copped the Road March as well. Bloody good, I say.

No Pong or Contone - Look, I know that "entertainers" Pong and Contone have their fans but for real, but if we're serious about producing a quality festival, then this underwhelming duo should take a back seat. Or at the very least, bring back the Clown Prince competition just for them....

The extended route - As one reveller said, more time to wuk up! Nuff said.

Lows

The not so Soca Royale
I was winging my way to Grenada when the Soca Royale was taking place at Bushy Park, so I didn't hear of the result till the next day. I never understood why the NCF would decide to have a sweet soca competition, distinguishing it from the party monarch competition, only to have a face-off between the two. Sounded like a way to get out of providing two prizes to me....

TC/Gabby getting booed
Even though I too was surprised when TC and the Mighty Gabby won the Sweet Soca Competitions and the Pic-O-De-Crop Finals respectively, at the end of the day the judges decision is final. Booing competitors is stupid and plain rude, peoples.

The Gabby/Admiral dust-up
Okay, I confess. I laughed when I heard that the venerable Anthony "Mighty Gabby" Carter had allegedly engaged in fisticuffs with the lippy, opinionated broadcaster Anthony "Admiral" Nelson. But, really, we're all adults here, and violence never solves anything! *snicker*

CAPTION: Announcer Admiral Nelson (right) speaking after the incident with Stedson "RPB" Wiltshire

Images: nationnews.com/boycevoice.com

Crop Over Wind-Down

2010-07-30T15:28:00.006-04:00

Hey, peoples! I'm just back from a few days out of the island, just in time for the last lap of the Crop Over Festival.

Tonight, the contenders for the Pic-o-de-Crop will face off at Kensington Oval, and I want to wish them all the best of luck.

About two hours ago one of my faves Mr. Dale took his second People's Monarch title with his catchy tune "Drop It", beating out another fave Blood.

My picks for the Pic-o-de-Crop are RPB, Blood and Gabby, in that order, while for the Road March I predict Edwin, Blood and Lil Rick will be the favourites of revellers.

Anyhoo, we'll see on Tuesday.

Have fun, be safe, y'all.

Soccer - The beautiful game

2010-06-24T21:56:00.005-04:00

For the past few weeks, when I'm not working or busy with the family, it's all about World Cup football from South Africa.

And I'll tell you, it ain't only the vuvuzelas that have my head buzzing. Have you seen some of the footballers in this year's championships? Wuhloss, no wonder they call soccer the beautiful game! Here are some of my personal faves. Of course, I respect their football skills, don't get tie up. I'm just sayingggg.

Fabio Canavarro - Italy. I real vex that Italy get knock out of the game, 'cause not only is it one of my favourite teams, but I'm gonna miss the team's hottie captain, Fabio Cannavaro. Aye, carramba!

Kevin-Prince Boateng - Ghana. This 23-year-old Ghanian has plenty of flair, and his team made it into the second round, so more Boateng for everybody!

Cristiano Ronaldo - Portugal. The highest paid man in football is pretty dazzling to watch on the field, and off-field he isn't so hard on the eyes, either...

Kaka - Brazil. I love me some Brazil, and I especially love me some Kaka. He's known as a peaceful soul, so the fact that he got red carded in Brazil's last game against the Ivory Coast came as a shock to many.

Oguchi Onyewu - USA. The USA is hardly my fave team at the World Cup, but there's no denying that defender Oguchi has something a lil extra.

Remembering MJ

2010-06-24T21:37:00.004-04:00

Hey, peoples. I know, I know. I disappeared on you again, and for that I apologise. For those of who who still check in to the blog regularly, thanks for your loyalty. And thanks so much for your emails as well.

Anyhoo, enough about me. In two hours, the world will mark the first anniversary of the death of one of the greatest entertainers of out time, the inimitable Michael Jackson.

Tomorrow several of the music stations will no doubt be paying tribute to MJ, and I'll be singing along and blaming it on the boogie with the rest of your fans, MJ.

You are missed, King of Pop.

All Hail Kamla

2010-05-25T23:57:00.005-04:00

Hey peoples. Sorry for being awayy so long but things have been rough, rough. So much has happened in the last few weeks I don't know where to start!

First, I must congratulate the first female Prime Minister of T&T, and only the second in CARICOM, Kamla Persad Bissessar, for her victory yesterday at the polls.

Wuhloss, Patrick Manning gift wrap his government and hand it to her on a platter. I guess now that he no longer has to worry about matters of state Manning can concentrate on his theological career. Or was he planning on driving bus....I really can't recall....

Not to take away from Kamla's victory but I have to say something about what's happening in Jamaica with this Dudus Coke issue. Prime Minister Bruce Golding needs to help clean up that mess and then resign quietly. For real.

I can't condemn the people who're dying for Dudus because their way of perceiving the world is far different from mine. The average Bajan could never understand depending on a drug don for daily survival and becoming so indebted to him we would lay down our lives for him.

I pray some resolution is quickly achieved in this tragedy before more people are killed.

Justice for Ian

2010-04-12T16:16:00.003-04:00

Last year I blogged about 11-year old schoolboy Ian Gibson, who was tragically killed in a vehicular accident, fleeing from bullies. The incident led to concerned citizens drafting an Ian Gibson Policy Against Bullying And Harassment, and a petition being presented to Prime Minister David Thompson by Gibson's father, Victor Cadogan.

Last week, in what I'm sure is the first ruling of its kind, the Courts charged three minors with manslaughter for causing Ian's death.

You can read more here. Sad. I hope this whole sorry episode brings more awareness about the seriousness of bullying in schools.

Image: www.nationnews.com

Fave new hot Caribbean (musical) properties

2010-04-09T14:05:00.018-04:00

A new breed of Caribbean musical talent is making waves internationally. Since Bajan superstar Rihanna made her debut five years ago, other Caribbean singers have followed her lead and are currently knocking at the door of stardom.

Here's a list of my fave up-and-comers, who were either born in the Caribbean or are of Caribbean parentage.

10. Vita Chambers. I must admit I had never heard about Vita Chambers till I stumbled across her myspace page sometime last year. This cute, bubbly, Barbadian teen has a fresh-faced appeal and pop/rock edge that's Like Boom, really.

9. Dwane Husbands. When I first saw Dwayne Husbands perform on a local talent show I said, wow, I think he has what it takes. In 2008, he won the Digicel Rising Stars competition, and the hearts of many female fans to boot.

The 25-year-old is perhaps best known for being featured on Rihanna's 2006 sophomore album A Girl like Me with the song 'Dem Haters', and with his silky smooth voice, he's sure to go places.

8. Jaicko. 19-year-old Jaicko Lawrence is a part of the musical Forrester clan of Barbados and Guyana. His hit 'Oh Yeah' is currently tearing up the airwaves and reached #2 on the Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles. Jaicko is currently signed to Capitol Records.

7. Livvi Franc. When your debut single, boldly titled 'Now I'm that Bitch', reaches the top of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart (2009), you know you're on to something good. Livvi Franc might not be a household name as yet, but give this 22-year-old Bajan some time....

6. Kimberley Inniss. Singer/songwriter/producer Kimberley Inniss has determination and self-confidence to spare. Like Dwayne Husbands, this triple threat started off as a contestant in a local talent show, then went on to the regional level in the Digicel Rising Stars competition. She placed second in both contests, but she got the last laugh in the end. Now, a record deal would be icing on the cake....

5. Shontelle Layne. I won't say much about Shontelle here, 'cause you all know I've bigged up my girl several times on this blog. If you haven't seen the latest video for her hit 'Impossible' as yet, check it in an earlier blog entry.

4. Hal Linton. In 2008, Hal Linton was honored by Black Entertainment Television in a series entitled, Rising Icons, showcasing up and coming music artists. I'm still feeling the effects of his song 'Cardiac Arrest' from a few years back.

His album Return From The Future is set for release in early 2010.

3. Marissa Lindsay. Blessed with a phenomenal voice, Marissa Lindsay can make you shed a tear then jump and shout, all in the same song. If she doesn't have people she needs to get some, and if she has people they need to get cracking with this girl's career 'cause she's got the goods.

2. Melanie Fiona. Born to Guyanese parents in Toronto, Canada, Melanie Fiona is currently tearing up the charts with her hit 'It Kills Me'. The video is pretty hot too, check it out below. Adam Rodriquez of CSI Miami fame too cute....

1. Ria Borman. Sassy megatalent Ria Borman has a voice reminscent of the Motown greats. She wowed R&B crooner Fantasia and Michael Jackson's father Joe Jackson earlier this year at the Barbados Music Awards. Would somebody pleaseee get this girl a record deal already!

None of the images in this post are my property. Credit goes to the owners, you all know who you are. :)

Elections imminent in Trinidad

2010-04-09T13:40:00.003-04:00

Wuhloss. These days Governments in the Caribbean are falling apart faster than a Hollywood marriage.

Now Trinidad and Tobago is being plunged into election mode after PM Patrick Manning pulled the plug on Opposition Leader Kamla Persad Bissessar's no confidence motion against him by dissolving Parliament. By law, he has three months to announce an election date.

I wonder if Patos can pull off another landslide like he did in 2007? Read more about the saga here.

Image: www.caribbean360.com

Happy World Health Day

2010-04-07T13:49:00.003-04:00

Hey, y'all! Today is World Health Day and Barbados is joining the world in being more active. Many public and prvate sector agencies have allowed their employees to dress casually and to take frequent activity breaks.

I don't know about y'all, but nothing gives me a workout like dancing, especially to the music of Beyonce "Bey" Knowles. So, dance along with me as I post up some of my fave Bey videos. Get bodied!

Constitutional crisis in Antigua

2010-04-01T19:59:00.003-04:00

Wuhloss. Only in the Caribbean could a political victory unfold so spectacularly. Poor Baldwin Spencer...

You can check the latest on the Antigua saga here.

Question and answer time

2010-03-31T13:43:00.005-04:00

From time to time I get mail from my readers, and so I decided to set aside today's post to respond to some of the questions posed by you my loyal blog readers. Here goes...

How come you don't write about Rihanna so much anymore?
From the time Rihanna burst on to the scene back in 2005, she's been a staple here at Cheese-on-bread. I've blogged about her triumphs, her relationship and her trials. I especially tried to impart advice to a then teenage Bajan thrust into the spotlight at the tender age of 17.

Now that Rih-Rih's a hard-backed 22-year-old woman, moving men into her house and thing, well, she don't need no advice from me. Not that she asked for it anyhow. I'll still blog about her though, don't worry.

Have you banned politics from the blog?
Not at all. It's just that I get so little time to blog these days, the last thing I want to write about is poliicians. Except Obama, he's special.

When are you going to finish that story you keep teasing us about?
Lord knows. Hopefully before my son goes to primary school. Just kidding. As soon as I get a chance, I have to fine tune the first few chapters before I begin posting them up. And for those who're wondering what the plot will be about this time around, it will include inter-racial relationships, abandoned kids and marriage blues.

When are you next going to do a fave list?
I have a topic in mind but as it's a short week I'll do it next week.

How come you didn't blog about the accusations made against Dr. David Estwick recently?
You mean the Gaza vs. Gully conflict part 2? I'll address that in my midterm review of the Cabinet soon.

Shontelle's 'Impossible' Video Is Here!

2010-03-26T14:21:00.003-04:00

Check out the just-released video for Bajan superstar Shontelle's megahit, 'Impossible'. The singer/songwriter is signed to Universal Motown Records and SRP Records, the same label known for discovering fellow Bajan Rihanna. The video was directed by TAJ, the protégé of Anthony Mandler, who has worked with Rihanna on a dozen of her videos.

“Impossible” is the lead single off of Shontelle’s upcoming album, No Gravity, out in Spring 2010. You can follow her on Twitter @Shontelle_Layne.

Great job, Shontelle. Do you, baby, do you.

Video courtesy of Jared of JustJared.com.

Barbados Not Feeling the Vybz

2010-03-25T15:41:00.004-04:00

Well, Gaza and Gully won't be sharing a stage in Barbados this weekend after all. Prime Minister David Thompson just concluded his post-Cabinet press conference, where he stated that the decision was taken to cancel the show....again.

Wuhloss. First it was on, then it was off. Then it was on. Now it's off, again. In between there we've had Ministers intervening, cops backraising each other (a long story) and accusations flying left and right. Talk 'bout gully versus Gaza. I know somebody's gonna get sued over this....

Obama's Health Care Reform Bill passes

2010-03-22T18:37:00.004-04:00

Congrats to US President Barack Obama, who won a hard-fought battle that culminated in his Health Care Reform Bill passing in the House last night.

Although the war is far from over, since the republican machinery is currently appealing the Bill, the Prez can still savour this victory. I just hope it hasn't come at too high a price, namely his chances of a second term.

Who's to blame?

2010-03-19T17:07:00.005-04:00

Hey, peoples. Well for the past week or so debate has been raging on - again - about the indiscipline exhibited by some of our young people. Fingers are being pointed at parents, teachers, the minibus culture, the radio broadcasters, Vybz Kartel and Movado... but who's really to blame for the way some of these youngsters are acting these days?

I say, we're all to blame. From the day Bajans could no longer correct each others' children; from the day parents started going to schools and cursing and beating teachers for disciplining their children; from the day society just got so busy that its youngest members got left behind, we failed our children and ultimately we failed ourselves.

Finger pointing only takes you so far, and we've been going around in circles with this topic of youth indiscipline for far too long. Let's get some sort of dialogue going with the youth themselves because they have a lot of the answers to this problem.

Survivin' the flu....

2010-03-09T15:19:00.006-04:00

Hey, peoples. I'm back after surviving the horrible flu that's going around in Bim these days. Hope you all are okay out there.

So, what's went on in the world when I was on my sick bed? Well, we're still experiencing a drought. Ain't seen rain in months. I hope when the rains so come we don't drown because Mother Nature is doing some odd things these days.

We've had over 1000 fires so far this year as well, mostly cane and bush fires. Our fire officers have to be commended for their hard work, because since January, the firebug has been raging out of control.

On the political front, PM David Thompson has shuffled out his Minister of State responsible for Immigration, Sen. Arni Walters, and made him Executive Board Chairman of the Barbados Water Authority. Good luck up in the Pine, Arni. Word is more changes are coming to the Cabinet as well.

What else? Oh, congrats to actress Mo'Nique, who copped the Best Supporting Actress award at last Sunday's Academy Awards. Well done, Ms. Mo'nique.

Beyonce Concert In Trinidad

2010-02-18T18:19:00.007-04:00

The eagerly waited Beyonce I Am... Sasha Fierce concert is on and popping in Port-of-Spain as I type.

I've been following it on twitter and checking out the tweetphotos being uploaded, like this one of the stage on the Savannah.

Machel Montano HD has just started his one hour performance, then Beyonce will be on at 7 p.m. for a 2 hour session.

I've seen some of her performances on cable and online, and that chica is fierce fuh trute, so I know the audience is in for a treat...lucky buggers.

All the photos above are courtesy of iSupportSwift down in T&T, and you can follow the action here.

Hear ya later!

Rihanna finally wuks up

2010-02-16T19:02:00.003-04:00

Only just the other day I posted that Rihanna should try wukking up to improve her stage performance, and lo and behold, she takes my humble advice!

Check out her performance of Rude Boy below. It's an improvement, n'est-ce pas?

Final Five Valentine's Videos

2010-02-12T19:49:00.002-04:00

Here's the final five of 20 of my fave 'swexy' Valentine's songs. I hope you've enjoyed all of them, and I've certainly enjoyed being your DJ this week.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day, y'all!

Valentine's videos continued

2010-02-12T14:07:00.003-04:00

Hey, peoples. Yesterday work and connectivity issues got in the way of me posting some more 'swexy' videos, so I have a double dose for you today. Before I go any further I want to hail up my followers and especially welcome the newest follower Christy B. I hope you keep enjoying the site, Christy B. and company.

Okay, okay, let's go. Let's get this party started with the babymaker song, as some call it, "Turn Off The Lights" by the late, great Teddy Pendergrass.

More a bit later...

More 'Swexy' Valentine Songs

2010-02-10T22:46:00.002-04:00

I hope you enjoyed yesterday's provocative, 'swexy' Valentine's songs, 'cause I have five more coming at you today. We'll start off with perhaps my favourite of all the song's I'll be posting this week, Ms. Chrisette Michele with "If I Have My Way".
Enjoy.

More tomorrow...

Fave 'swexy' Valentine's Songs

2010-02-09T16:08:00.008-04:00

Hey, peoples. This is the week most people either love or hate, the week leading up to Valentine's Day on February 14. We all get bombarded by lovey-dovey tunes on the radio; every restaurant in the island is offering some lunch or dinner special and everywhere you look red and white is on display.

Anyhoo, Cheese-on-Bread can't be left out of this love fest, so I decided that between now and Friday, I'd bring you 20 (in random order) of my fave 'swexy' Valentine's songs. 'Swexy' songs are those (in my opinion, anyway) with lyrics that just put you in the mood for love. Wherever possible I'll put up a video of the artist performing the song, or just the audio.

Enjoy!

Cry To Me - Solomon Burke (Dirty Dancing)

Feeling the heat yet? I'll turn it up a notch tomorrow, haha.

BMA Red Carpet Couples

2010-02-05T18:29:00.008-04:00

I know some couples like to wear matching outfits, but anything can be overdone....

One false move and this guy could lose an eye....

Bajan soca queen Allison Hinds was showing it all off, and hubby Edward looks like he's protecting the other men from getting too close.

I'm not quite sure who's escorting whom on the red carpet.... Interesting metallic bubble dress, though.

One-time frontman of the big band Square One, Anderson Armstrong, looks like he's channelling a circus ringmaster with this getup.

Ms. Barbados World and co-host of the BMAs Leah Marville glows in this sequined gown, which accentuates her teeny tiny figure. Her co-host, model guy whose name I can't remember, sorry, cuts a dashing figure in his tailored suit.

Well, at least, they're colour-coordinated....

It takes a brave man to wear lilac, and I'm convinced that honey-voiced crooner John King did it for love, to coordinate with his date. Or is that his daughter? Me confused....

I'm not sure if these two are together, but individually they look pretty good.

Dang, that's one hot mama. Her son/brother looks pretty mortified though....

The man: love the jacket, hate everything else. The woman: love the hair, the dress, adore the shoes. The eye makeup, however, has to go.

This was one of my favourite couples of the night. They're not coordinated, but they look so cute together. The gown is bold and really makes a statement and the guy looks like he made an effort for the evening. Good job.

BMA Red Carpet - The men

2010-02-05T15:11:00.009-04:00

Peoples, I know this is a bit stale now but a promise is a promise. Here are the remaining red carpet photos from last month's Barbados Music Awards. This time around, the men and the couples. All photos are the property of Bajantube.com.

Under all that hair, that's cutie singer Kirk Brown from the band Strategy. I'm not too much in love with his outfit, but his friend looks good. Kinda Tyrese-ish....

Soca maestro Edwin Yearwood of Krosfyah fame and up-and-comer Jaico make a splash on the red carpet.

Who let this poor, unfortunate soul loose on the red carpet? He looks so lost I don't have the heart to say anything bad....

I don't have enough time to itemise all the things wrong with this getup. All I can say is that it gives new meaning to the phrase matching from head to toe....

World Champion hurdler Ambassador Ryan Brathwaite and his father Eugene heat up the red carpet. The Ambassador would have looked even hotter in more formal attire though...

Later, the couples....

Memories of Rex Nettleford

2010-02-05T14:31:00.004-04:00

One of the shining lights of Caribbean academia has been extinguished with the passing of Vice-Chancellor Emeritus of the University of the West Indies, Professor Ralston Milton 'Rex' Nettleford, on Tuesday.

I had the privilege of being taught History, Politics and Culture of the West Indies by Prof Nettleford at the Mona Campus back in the late 90's, and what an experience that was. I can see him now, perched on the edge of the lecturer's table or pacing gracefully across the class room, stopping now and then to punctuate a point with a nod or a wink. The man could lecture off the top of his head for two hours, without referring to notes.

He influenced myself and thousands of other students over the years to question and research and learn more about the history of our region and for that I will be eternally grateful. Rest well, Prof., you will be missed.

Rihanna wows at the Grammys

2010-02-01T02:40:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to local superstar Rihanna, who not only brought glamour and sophistication to the Grammy Awards carpet last night, but won, along with Jay-Z and Kanye West, int he categories of Best Rap Song and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Run This Town.

Simply elegant. This look suits you, Rih-Rih. Keep it up.

Soon come back

2010-01-31T03:39:00.004-04:00

Hey, peoples. Sorry for breaking my promise about posting last Thursday, but things are hectic now. Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho are in town and so the entire media's busy right now. So, I soon come back with more BMA pics.

To tide you over, here's a cute one of Prince Harry at the QEH on Saturday. He visited the Paediatric Ward there.

Too cute. Credit for the photo goes to the GIS. The Princes also did a number at Farley Hall during the telethon for Haiti, joining the Red Plastic Bag on stage to dance to 'Something's Happening'. I tell, yuh, you had to see it to believe it. I'm sure it's on youtube or twitter as we speak.....

Bas just won't give up

2010-01-27T15:55:00.002-04:00

Basdeo Panday just doesn't know when to call it quits. Kamla Persad Bissessar crushed him in the election for leader of the United National Congress, but Bas says he ain't going nowhere.

Show some humility for once, Bas, and give up graciously.

Barbados Music Awards Red Carpet - The ladies

2010-01-27T14:21:00.016-04:00

Hey, peoples. As promised, here are some of the red carpet photos from the recent Barbados Music Awards, held at the Wildey Gymnasium. All photos are the property of Bajantube.com.

These ladies made some bold fashion choices, and they paid off.

I don't know if it's the contrasting colours or the angle of the photo, but soemthing looks a bit off in the top part of this ensemble. It's a bit swimsuit-ish, not the look I think she was going for.

I'm not sure what was the purpose of the netting over the dress, but it killed the outfit entirely. Also, my dear lady....support is your friend.

This outfit screams elegance, but the gloves are a bit much for a music awards show. Unless you're Michael Jackson, leave the gloves at home.

I don't usually go for white at night, but these ladies are so picture perfect it's all good.

Damn that Betty West. That's all I have to say.

Two of the most talented women in Barbados, Terencia 'TC' Coward (left) and Natahlee Burke (right) came out on in style on the night. Their friend in the middle looked stunning as well.

This trio looked young, hip and fresh, but dem purple tights with matching ankle boots gotta go....

This is one brave lady. Papa Joe, Fantasia and PM Thompson nearly had to deliver her baby....

Local songstress Keann Walters is rocking the ish outa that lil black dress. Do you, honey, do you.

Heyyyyy, Fantasia.

Tomorrow, the men.

Barbados Music Awards

2010-01-25T15:06:00.005-04:00

Hey, peoples. The fifth annual Barbados Music Award came off on the 10th of January, and I was all set to blog about hte winners and thr red carpet, but then the tragedy in Haiti occurred and I had to focus on that.

It was a fantastic show, by all accounts, and R&B sensation Fantasia almost literally brought the house down during her performance. Michael Jackson's father Joe was also in attendance to collect a Lifetime Achievement Award on his son's behalf.

So, it's a bit old but here's the list of winners of the 2010 BMA's.

Soca Up-Tempo Single
Edwin Yearwood- In De Middle A De Road

Soca Mid-Tempo Single (Male)
RPB- Something's Happening

Soca Mid- Tempo Single (Female)
Natahlee- What We Do

Best Social Commentary
RPB- Home Drums

Best Collaboration
Alison Hinds & Richie Spice- King and Queen

Song of the Year
RPB- Something's Happening

Album of the Year (Artist / Group)
Shontelle-Shontelligence

Album of the Year (Compilation)
Monsta Piece- AWOL

Producer of the Year
KB Sharp

Songwriter of the Year
Mr. Dale

Backing Vocalist of the Year
Indra Rudder

Instrumentalist of the Year
Darien Bailey

Best Music Video (Male)
Kirk Brown feat. Justin King & Tejay- Shawty Get

Best Music Video (Female)
Tarah- Push Back / Love De Carnival

Best New Artist
Sir Ruel

Reggae Artist of the Year
Buggy

Jazz Artist of the Year
Kellie CaDogan

Gospel Artist of the Year
Mya Daniel

Soca Artist of the Year
TC

Pop / Rock / Alternative Artist of the Year
Philip 7

Rap / Hip- Hop Artist of the Year
Ruby Tech

Soul / R&B Artist of the Year
Jaicko

Band / Group of the Year
Krosfyah

Entertainer of the Year (Male)
Edwin Yearwood

Entertainer of the Year (Female)
Alison Hinds

Song of the Decade
Rihanna- Umbrella

Band / Group of the Decade
Krosfyah

Entertainer of the Decade (Male)
Lil Rick

Entertainer of the Decade (Female)
Rihanna
________________________________________
2010 BMA HONOUREES
Cornerstone Awards
Arturo Valentino
JoAnne Sealey
Andrea Gollop- Greenidge
ANTHONY BRYAN
Natahlee
Herring
Biggie Irie
John Sealy
John Roett
Tony Thompson

Lifetime Achievement Award
Tony Hoyos

Living Legend
Marvo Manning

BMA Award of Excellence
Terencia "TC" Coward

BMA Platinum Award
Shontelle- (Shontelligence, T Shirt)

International Award of Excellence
Toni Braxton
Fantasia Barrino

International Lifetime Achievement Award (In Memoriam)
Michael Jackson

Tomorrow I'll recap some of the red carpet fashion, courtesy of Bajantube.com.

Happy 1st Anniversary, Obama + Haiti Relief Concert

2010-01-23T15:53:00.002-04:00

Yesterday marked the first anniversary since the inauguration of US President Barack Obama, and what a bittersweet year it has been. He's had to deal with the financial crisis, opposition to his health care reform and now he's lost the major Senate seat of Massachusetts.

Anyhoo, Mr. President, keep fighting the good fight. You still have a lot of support in your corner.

Last night, Hollywood and the music industry combined to stage the Hope For Haiti benefit concert and telethon. Rihanna performed alongside Jay-Z and Bono of U2 on a beautiful track entitled "Stranded". Check it below.

Here in Bim, the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation has hit the streets today to raise donations and on January 30 Barbados will be stagin its own telethon. I'll bring more info on that as it comes to hand.

Peace, my peoples.

Haiti Relief Effort

2010-01-18T19:27:00.003-04:00

Hey, peoples. Well, the mobilisation of relief efforts is well under way here in Bimshire. On Saturday, over $1 million was pledged through the radiothon on Starcom Network and more donations are pouring in.

I have a list of the items and personnel needed URGENTLY to assit Haiti. Check it out below, get involved.

List of Distribution Outlets

Emerald City Supermarket
Six Roads, St. Philip

Carlton A1 Supermarket
Black Rock, St. Michael

SuperCentre
Warrens, St. Michael
Worthing, Christ Church

Popular Discounts
Spooners Hill, St. Michael

Trimart Supermarkets
- Haggatt Hall, St. Michael
- Bridge Street, St. Michael
- St. Martin’s, St. Philip
- Rendezvous, Ch.Ch.
- Mile-and-a-Quarter, St. Peter

Jordans Supermarkets
- Fitts Village, St. James
- Speightstown, St. Peter

National Cultural Foundation
West Terrace, St. James
Tel: 424-0909

UWI Guild of Students
Cave Hill, St. Michael
Tel: 826-5631

WAREHOUSES

Unit# 7 BIDC Building
Six Roads
St. Philip

Opening Hours
Mondays-Fridays
-9:30 am – 10:00pm
Saturday 9:30 am –11:00pm
Sunday 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Monetary Donations may be donated to:

First Caribbean International
Account# 1001059963

Barbados National Bank
Account# 01801513-2002

Haiti Relief Command Centre - Kensington Oval
274 - 1100
274 - 1101
274 – 1102
274 – 1106
274 – 1107
274 – 1120
274 – 1150
274 – 1151
274 – 1152
274 – 1153
274 – 1154
274 – 1155

Email: barbadoshaitirelief@gmail.com

Items Needed

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD SUPPLIES
Tuna, Sardines, Canned Milk, Dry Foods (crackers)

MEDICAL SUPPLIES
Gauze, Pain Killers (Panadols, Tylenol), First Aid Kits, Disposable Gloves, Disinfectants, Cots, Bedding, Medical Equipment, Tents

BABY SUPPLIES
Wipes, Milk, Baby Foods, Pampers

SANITARY SUPPLIES
Feminine Hygiene Napkins, Hand Sanitizers, Sanitary Wipes

SHELTER
Tents

BUILDING MATERIALS & SUPPLIES*

Cement, aggregate building blocks, lumber, PVC, Doors,
Electrical Fixtures, Construction Tools,
Windows, Sheetrock, Roofing Materials

*Please call Command Centre to make pledges.

PERSONNEL NEEDED

Medical Personnel
Emergency Medical Technicians
Surgeons
Anesthetists
General Practitioners
Internists
Obstetricians
Nurses
Midwives
Psychologists
Radiologists
Nutritionists

Construction Personnel

Civil Engineers
Carpenters
Masons
Plumbers
Electrical Installation Specialists
General Labourers

Communications Personnel

Linesmen
Technicians
ICT Specialists

RIP Teddy Pendergras

2010-01-14T16:27:00.003-04:00

Amidst the reports of the turmoil in Haiti, the news that soul crooner Teddy Pendergrass died yesterday at the age of 59 might have gone unnoticed. I wanted to acknowledge his passing and I'll do a fave list of his songs a bit later. Oh yeah, Love TKO, Close the Door, Turn off the Lights, Wake Up Everybody, it's gonna be fun.

For now, I'll post up a video of the legend in his heyday, performing one of his hits, Close The Door. Good stuff.

Aid for Haiti

2010-01-14T14:07:00.003-04:00

Hi, peoples. Since I last blogged Prime Minister David Thompson left the island for an emergency Caricom meeting in Jamaica, before heading to Haiti to see firsthand the devastation wrought there by Tuesday's earthquake.

Also, aid is pouring into Haiti. Trinidad and Guyana are donating US$1 million each, and President Obama has earmarked US$100 million. As I mentioned yesterday, the Starcom Network will hold a radiothon on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon. The numbers to call are 434-1790, 434-1791 and 434-1770. For those of you overseas, precede those numbers with 1-246.

In addition, you can deposit cash on an account set up at the Broad Street branch of First Caribbean International Bank. The account number is #2645374.

I'll update you as more information comes in.

Help Haiti!

2010-01-13T15:57:00.005-04:00

Barbados and the rest of the Caribbean are at this moment mobilising resources to assit the people of Haiti, following the massive 7.0 earthquake which occured yesterday. So far, reports are that 20% of the island's housing stock has been destroyed. Even the Presidential Palace has been seriously damaged.

Here in Bim Starcom Network and the OCM network are arranging a radiothon on Saturday to raise funds. I'll post up the information on the numbers to call as soon as I get them.

Prime Minister David Thompson held a hastily convened press conference to address this tragedy. Here's what he had to say:

It is with a sense of profound sadness that Barbadians learnt of the earthquake that struck the nation of Haiti yesterday, January 12, 2009. While the world is only now coming to understand the scale of destruction and loss of life as the first pictures and reports are being seen and filed, initial assessments indicate that Haiti has again suffered a calamity of horrendous proportions. This comes at a time when Haiti is still recovering from a series of hurricanes which struck that nation two years ago.

At this painful and trying moment for all Haitians, I extend, on behalf of the people of Barbados, my deepest sympathy to the Government and people of Haiti and especially to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones.

I want also to give every assurance of Barbados’ support for Haiti during this difficult period as it seeks to cope with and recover from the aftermath of the earthquake. I have already been in consultation with the Heads of other CARICOM countries, particularly the Chairman, to ensure that an adequate and meaningful response to this disaster is also made by the Caribbean Community. The pain of this disaster is felt throughout the Community, and we will do whatever is in our power to show our support and solidarity with our fellow CARICOM state as it faces this terrible trauma. Our prayers and thoughts continue to be with the Government and people of Haiti during this trying time.

For this tragedy to occur after suffering four hurricanes in 2008, it's just too much. My prayers are with you, mes freres at soeurs haitiens.

Image: Damage to the Presidential Palace following the earthquake

The Top 10 Blog Stories of 2009 pt. 2

2010-01-09T20:54:00.008-04:00

Hey peoples. I'm back with what, in my lowly opinion, were the top four blog stories of 2009. These are the news items that generated the most buzz on my blog and among the public.

4. The death of Michael Jackson
The outpouring of grief I witnessed in Bim for the late pop icon Michael Jackson is usually reserved for Prime Ministers, and left no doubt that his fans and detractors alike felt his passing. Live coverage of his funeral was viewed by hundreds in Kensington Oval and the 24 hour sessions of Jackson's hits on the radio stations were spine-tingling. RIP, MJ.

3. The Inauguration of US President Barack Obama
Barbados came to a standstill almost a year ago as persons were glued to their tv and computer screens to watch the first African American being sworn in as President of the USA. It was a day that will live on my memory.

2. Rihanna vs. Chris Brown
You all know the story on this one, so I won't bother to rehash this dark episode. You can check out my numerous posts last year on this topic. I'm done.

1. Ryan Brathwaite wins gold at the World Championships
When hurdler Ryan Brathwaite beat out his competitors to win the gold medal at the World Championships in Berlin, Barbadians were overcome with pride and joy. I was in Bridgetown when he ran and I can tell you, even the City vagrants were fussy fussy. Well done, son of the soil.

Merry Christmas, y'all!

2009-12-09T13:24:00.004-04:00

Hey, peoples! Hope you're all enjoying the merriment and joy and peace and goodwill and all that jazz associated with this time of the year. Here in Bim we're experiencing beautiful, breezy sunny days and everything's all aglow...sigh, loves it.

Anyhoo, I wanted to wish you and yours a blessed holiday. I'm on vacay from next week, so I'm not sure how much posting I'll be doing before Christmas. There's a tree and house to decorate, traffic to navigate and shopping malls to frustrate, you all know the score.

Next year I hope to finally put pen to paper on this story I've been carrying around in my head for months. I have some new characters for you to meet; hope you all like 'em.

Take care and God Bless.

Tiger 'transgresses' + Common didn't call me!

2009-12-02T13:15:00.009-04:00

Wuhloss. It seems that no celebrity is immune from scandal these days. On the heels of him crashing his Cadillac SUV into a fire hydrant and a tree, golf great Tiger Woods has pretty muched confessed to what has been rumoured in the last week; he's been cheating on his wfe Elin Nordegren, apparently with at least three other women!

He issued the following statement on his website yesterday:

I have let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart. I have not been true to my values and the behavior my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behavior and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone.

Although I am a well-known person and have made my career as a professional athlete, I have been dismayed to realize the full extent of what tabloid scrutiny really means. For the last week, my family and I have been hounded to expose intimate details of our personal lives. The stories in particular that physical violence played any role in the car accident were utterly false and malicious. Elin has always done more to support our family and shown more grace than anyone could possibly expect.

But no matter how intense curiosity about public figures can be, there is an important and deep principle at stake which is the right to some simple, human measure of privacy. I realize there are some who don’t share my view on that. But for me, the virtue of privacy is one that must be protected in matters that are intimate and within one’s own family. Personal sins should not require press releases and problems within a family shouldn’t have to mean public confessions.

Whatever regrets I have about letting my family down have been shared with and felt by us alone. I have given this a lot of reflection and thought and I believe that there is a point at which I must stick to that principle even though it’s difficult.

I will strive to be a better person and the husband and father that my family deserves. For all of those who have supported me over the years, I offer my profound apology.

Now, I feel personally insulted. Tiger Woods come down here to Buhbadus to marry Elin. He block up the roads leading up to Sandy Lane and yuh had to detour all bout St. James. He nearly give we heart attack with the fireworks they let off up at the country club on the wedding night. He had paparazzi mekking people miserable trying to climb up pon roofs to get photos (though some locals mek a good buck, don't fool yuh foot). And after all that he got the audacity to cheat pon she? I feel like he cheat pon me, too!

I swear that I will NEVER understand men. What dem does really want, though? To feel needed? To feel important? Cause it seems that even if you is the prettiest woman pon the face of the earth yuh gine still get cheated on.

Look at this woman, then.

I know that all that glitters ain't gold, but Elin far better looking than that cocktail waitress or them other women. Wuh Tiger want, really? He better do more than apologise, 'cause if Elin get a good lawyer she coming for dem billions! Fore!

And talking about men, that one Common, yeah that cute rapper fella, playing he come to Buhbadus and ain't call me. I hear he and Serena had a good old time here last weekend. Is alright, though. Uh still like yuh, Lonny.

Anyhoo, check out AirBourne's site here to see the pics.

Happy Independence, Barbados!!!

2009-11-30T01:48:00.002-04:00

To all my Bajan peoples at home and abroad, to all adopted Bajans from around the world, I wish you a Happy Independence Day!

Let's give God thanks for our wonderful nation. We are blessed.

Congratulations are also extended to our newest Knights (we're still very British, ain't), Sir Philip Greaves and Sir Maurice King. I've posted the full list of honourees below.

God Bless Bim!

2009 INDEPENDENCE DAY HONOURS LIST

KNIGHT OF ST. ANDREW

For extraordinary and outstanding achievement and merit in service to Barbados or to humanity at large.

1. Mr. Philip Marlowe Greaves, Q.C.

For his distinguished career and his outstanding service and contribution to Barbados and public life.

2. Mr. Maurice Athelstan King, Q.C.

For his distinguished service and contribution to the legal profession and public service.

COMPANION OF HONOUR

For distinguished national achievement and merit.

1. Mr. John Andrew Connell, Q.C.

For his public service contribution to the legal profession.

2. Mr. Lionel Seymour Craig

For his outstanding contribution in the area of community service.

3. Mr. Robert Livingstone Morris, GCM

For his outstanding contribution to the labour movement.

GOLD CROWN OF MERIT

For highly meritorious service or achievement in science, the arts, literature, sports, civic duties or any other endeavour worthy of national recognition.

1. Mr. Winston Alfred Cox
For his contribution to central banking and his meritorious contribution to the Region on economic matters.

2. Dr. Juliet Michelle Daniel

For her highly meritorious work in the area of cancer research.

3. Mr. Owen Lynderson Estwick

For his highly meritorious service in the area of public administration and cricket administration.

4. Mr. Joseph Cecil Ince

For his highly meritorious service in the area of tourism in particular cruise tourism.

SILVER CROWN OF MERIT

For meritorious service or achievement in science, the arts, literature, sports, civic duties or any other endeavour worthy of national recognition.

1. Mr. Ryan McDonald Brathwaite

For his winning a Gold Medal in the 110 metre hurdles at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.

2. Mr. Jerston Sherlock Clarke

For his meritorious service in the area of athletic coaching.

3. Miss Elizabeth Eileen Alice Deane

For her meritorious service to horse racing in Barbados and the Caribbean.

4. Dr. Edward Augustus Layne

For his meritorious service in promoting Barbados and developing linkages with the Atlanta business community.

BARBADOS SERVICE STAR

For meritorious work in the civil, fire, military, police, prison or other protective services or any other similar field of endeavour.

1. Miss Eleanor Elaine Catlyn

For her contribution to nursing.

2. Mrs. Yvette Patricia Scantlebury

For 25 years of service to Government working in Cabinet Office.

3. Mr. Desmond Charles Weekes

For his contribution to the development and promotion of spouge music.

4. Rev. Dr. Carlyle DaCosta Williams

For his contribution to religion, in particular to the Wesleyan Holiness Church.

5. Miss Sylvia Oneta Wilkinson

For her contribution to the public service.

BARBADOS SERVICE MEDAL

For meritorious work in the civil, fire, military, police, prison or other protective services or any other similar field of endeavour.

1. Ms. Joan Wilma Glasgow

For her outstanding contribution to the community.

2. Mr. Frank Herbert Reid

For his outstanding contribution to education.

3. Mr. Weldon Adolphus Spencer

For his contribution to the community and in particular his contribution to the Police Force.

4. Mrs. Marseta Bynoe-Walcott

For her contribution to community development, in particular, her work with youth and civic organisations in Christ Church.

5. Ms. Evelyn Margarette Walcott

For her contribution to the hospitality industry.

BARBADOS BRAVERY MEDAL

For acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

1. Mr. Terry Tyrone Omar Ifill

For his act of bravery in rescuing two visitors from drowning while swimming at Bathsheba, St. Joseph, on September 2, 2009.

2. Mr. Victor Leon Lewis

For his act of bravery in rescuing two visitors from drowning while swimming at Bathsheba, St. Joseph, on September 2, 2009.

Vincentians reject new Constitution

2009-11-26T13:26:00.002-04:00

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves must not be in a good mood right now. Oh well, that's life. Read all about it here.

Fave Old Time Proverbs

2009-11-26T13:15:00.003-04:00

Hi, peoples. Here's another flashback to one of my 2007 Independence posts. Enjoy.

As a "grandmother child" (i.e. child raised by grandparents), I grew up hearing a lot of Bajan proverbs and sayings that remain with me till this day. We Bajans have some very colourful sayings and here are 10 of my favourites:

10. Every fool got ‘e sense:
No matter how dull and ignorant, everybody is knowledgeable in one area or the other.

9. Cat luck en' dog luck
What one person may get away, may cause problems for another.

8. When yuh en' got horse, ride cow:
Utilize whatever resources you have available.

7. Don’t tek a six for a nine:
Do not misunderstand a person’s real intentions.

6. De berry don’ drop too far from de tree:
Children inherit traits and attitudes from their parents.

5. De higher de monkey climb, de more 'e show 'e tail:
The more you show off, the more your faults are brought to the open.

4. Evah skin-teet en' a laugh:
Not all outward signs of friendliness should be taken as genuine.

3. One smart dead at two smart door:
No matter how smart you think you are, there is somebody smarter than you.

2. Yuh could hide and buy ground but yuh can’t hide and wuk it:
It is impossible to hide your actions all the time.

1. De sea ain’t got nuh back door:
The sea is not that safe a place; take every precaution necessary.

For more proverbs, check Bajanfuhlife.com.

How to make conkies

2009-11-24T16:59:00.001-04:00

What's Independence in Bim without conkies? Find out how to make them here.

Independence Cheese flashback

2009-11-23T20:08:00.003-04:00

It's blue, yellow and black time again in Bim and I thought I'd share some of my fave posts from November 2007. Every day until November 30th I'll try to post one for you all.

THe first up is some pics of Bridgetown all lit up for Independence. You can find them here

Rihanna needs to wuk-up

2009-11-23T19:20:00.007-04:00

Hey peoples! It's good to be back with you and I hope you're all well out there. Thanks for sticking around and gracias muchisimo for your mail.

Well, last night the American Music Awards went down in Los Angeles and of course home girl Rihanna took to the red carpet and the stage.

Love the cut out rose motif, hate the hair ....

And she performed a set which included the singles 'Hard' and the 'Wait Is Ova' off her new album Rated R, released today, in this outfit:

She reminds me of Charlize Theron in Aeon Flux for some reason, or that chick from the Bruce Willis movie The Fifth Element . Anyhoo, I know I'm going to get a lot of flack for this, but I gotta say that I find Rihanna's performances boring. She wears eye-catching outfits, she has a lot of props, but sorry, she needs to work on her stage presence. And I think I've found just the way for her to improve her shows. She needs to wuk up. Seriously.

It worked wonders for Shakira and Beyonce, and even Lady Gaga is trying a thing these days. All Rihanna has to do is check soca queen Allison Hinds when next she's back home for some lessons. She gine sort she out real good.

Images: theybf.com

Rihanna's 'Russian Roulette' video

2009-11-16T17:00:00.001-04:00

Hey, peoples. Check out Rihanna's video for her new hit 'Russian Roulette', quick quick before it gets pulled down.

Serena's coming to BIM

2009-11-10T19:54:00.004-04:00

Tennis ace Serena Williams will be in Barbados later this month for a tennis clinic for kids, and I'm pretty excited. She clawed her way back to the top of the rankings this year and really proved her metal.

Can't wait to see her, and I wonder if she's bringing her guy Common? If she does, hold me back, y'all!

Rihanna is simply GLAMOURous

2009-11-10T19:33:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Barbadian superstar Rihanna, who was presented with Glamour Magazine's Woman of the Year Award on Monday night. Not a bad way to end a pretty rough year.

Folks are raving over her gown, which does wonders to highlight her svelte figure, but I guess I'm not that into haute couture. I'll be kind and leave it there.

Now this gown, which she wore to an afterparty, I likey very much, though it's split so high it could cut her throat. Do you, Rih-Rih, do you.

Images: theybf.com

The Rihanna 20/20 Interview

2009-11-09T16:44:00.002-04:00
Here's Rihanna's 20/20 interview with Diane Sawyer, aired last Friday. Although I'm skeptical in terms of the timing of the whole interview, she does sound sincere and truly shaken up by the ordeal. Hopefully she can move on with her life now.

Catching up again

2009-11-06T16:29:00.008-04:00
Hey, peoples. I swear everytime I get bogged down in work etc, things get interesting around here and I can't get a chance to blog.

Since I last posted, we had a former PM going at it with his former deputy, and now Ms. Rih-Rih has broken her silence on the Chris Brown debacle, just in time to promote her new album....

Anyhoo, first things first.

The Owen Arthur/Mia Mottley "showdown" was an eye opener, not so much for what was said, but for what really wasn't said. Let me break it down for you folks who aren't clued into the political scene in Bimshire.

For about 14 years and up until January 1998, Barbados was led by Prime Minister Owen Arthur. In the latter stage of his administration, he had as his Deputy Mia Mottley. However, prior to the last election, he overlooked Mottley in favour of former Opposition Leader (yes I said Opposition Leader) Clyde Mascoll to be the co-leader of the Barbados Labour Party.

When the BLP's plans for re-election went to hell in a handbasket, it was alleged that that party decided to do some bloodletting, and Arthur was the chief victim. Mia Mottley was named Leader of the Oppposition and Arthur faded quietly into the sunset.

Or so it was thought. Bear in mind, Owen Arthur still had his fans, and many still believed he was the best choice to lead the BLP. That led to all kinds of perceptions of a power struggle in the BLP camp, and Ms. Mia finally put her foot down and went public, requesting a referendum of her parliamentary council on who they wanted for a leader.

Arthur didn't turn up for the vote, which Mottley won, but the next day held a press conference and put his former deputy on blast.

"The challenge facing Ms Mottley and the party is not within the parliamentary group. The challenge is to have a leader who enjoys wide aceptance and acceptability in the wider society and wide acceptance in the parliamentary party.

"That cannot be resolved by a vote among the parliamentary group," he said.

Arthur advised that his former protégée now needed to "recognise that there are things that you may like to do that could affect the standing of your party"; prepare herself for the fact that everybody was not going to like her; and immerse herself and "work harder than anybody else".

In typical Arthur style, he appeared to state his lack of interest in contesting Mottley's leadership of the party, but in fact threw her to the wolves by raising a lot of unanswered questions. And what did he mean by Mottley needing to "recognise that there are things that you may like to do that could affect the standing of your party"? You better ask a friend here in Bim, 'cause I ain't touching that one....

And now Ms. Robyn Rihanna Fenty. Girlfriend has finally gone public about her treatment at the hands of what's his name, sitting down with Diane Sawyer in an interview that will air on ABC'S 20/20 tonight. Snippets have hit the web, and I've posted two for you below.

Serious stuff. You all know Brown's camp is going to retaliate in some way, with his album coming out in a few weeks. Keep your chin up, Rih-Rih.

Rihanna will be 'Rated R' on November 23

2009-10-21T13:51:00.005-04:00

As most of you know by now, Rihanna will be releasing her fourth album, entitled Rated R, on November 23. You can check out the promo video for the album below.

The first single Russian Roulette has already hit the airwaves, and as you can see from the photo above, she's planning to push the envelope even more, going for an even 'edgier' look.

The blogs are going nuts with folks saying the song is about her selling her soul to the devil...it's hilarious. I agree she's sold her soul...to some sweet American greenbacks. Girlfriend is doing whatever it takes to keep people interested, and that's a must, unfortunately, in the music biz these days.

Anyhoo, I prefer the old days when it was about the singer's voice, not their looks or fashion sense....

Image: theybf.com

Obama awarded Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T13:26:00.002-04:00

Congrats to President Barack Obama on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Of course the US netowrks are falling over themselves asking if he deserves this honour.

Whatev. He didn't award himself the prize, so suck it up, critics.

Damn that Iman!

2009-10-09T13:10:00.003-04:00

Does this woman look 54 years old? What can we say to Somalian model, actress and entrepreneur Iman but, damn that Iman!

Image: www.theybf.com

Rihanna - Best in show

2009-10-05T16:13:00.010-04:00
Hey, peoples. Hope everyone had a good weekend. I want to welcome my newest follower Manny to the Cheese-on-Bread family!

Anyhoo, remember I told you all how Rihanna's been turning sidewalks into her own personal catwalk? Well now she's doing the same at all the fashion shows presently underway in Europe.

I can't recall the names of the shows she attended, nor the designers she wore (Jean-Paul Gaultier is in there somewhere), but here's a look at what our girl has been parading around in.

Rihanna's criss-crossed top reminds me of a haute couture mummy costume.

Obviously Rihanna real hard ears and forgot what I told her a while back about catching cold. The expression on the face of the guy in the photo says it all.

"Boots, boots, boots and more boots". Rihanna looks downright dangerous in this outfit. All she needs is a whip and horse.

With her looks, fame and money, I know Rihanna probably doesn't have one ass to worry about, but still, no need to show off, Rih-Rih!

Image: theybf.com; justjared.com