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In an inconspicuous residential section of Laurelton, Queens, New York
is a one-and-a-half-story brick bungalow owned by Winston and Sonia Rodney.
The yard, sidewalk and cars parked in the driveway conform with those of
the other houses on the street. The wrought-iron fence with a small gate
makes a modest distinction. Beyond the front door and entryway are the
yellow pine floors of a dining room, living room and kitchen one would
expect in such a home. The only thing that would tip you off that this
house is the headquarters of one of reggae's most successful enterprises
is in the basement...
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23rd Annual Bob Marley Days
California sunshine on Valentine's Day would have been the obvious highlight
of this February weekend, or maybe even the NBA All-Star Game and its gala
surrounding events, but not this year's Bob Marley Day Festival in Long Beach,
which was disappointing compared to previous years. And pray you didn't have
balcony-only tickets because hearing the performers or even djs Down to Earth
and Quantegy Sounds spinning between sets was like tracing an echo signal from
inside a huge, hollow cave...
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Toumani Diabate is a Musician's musician. Ali Farka Toure calls him "a genius
of the kora," the 21-stringed West African harp-lute Toumani plays. Baaba Maal
sings praises for his musicianship and generous spirit. And nearly every
musician who finds himself in Bamako, Mali pays a visit to Toumani's house.
The compound, in a quiet district on the outskirts of Bamako, is an oasis for
artists of various ilk to gather for relaxation, rehearsal or to replenish
creative energy...
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Although the world will forever treasure the muddy songs voiced by sultry
pop songstress Sade, such as "Cherish the Day," "Nothing can come Between Us,"
"Kiss of Life," "Sweetest Taboo" and countless others, many are unaware of
the man behind the music: producer, musician and songwriter Stuart Matthewman.
The English-born Matthewman, AKA Cottonbelly, appeared on all five of Sade's
albums, and, notably, introduced the reggae influence to her latest release,
Lovers Rock...
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