Released on Jan 21 2010
#77 – Jah Live
This show is dedicated to my good friend Chris Heroux who is going through probably the hardest challenge in his entire life. First up is a set of uplifting tunes for him. The second half of the show is a version excursion on Bob Marley’s “Jah Live” rhythm. Fiona wraps up the show with “Stop Talking.” Let’s remember to not only talk and create awareness about the situation in Haiti, but to act on it by donating to reputable organizations.
Gramps Morgan – Wash the Tears
Duane Stephenson – You Are Not Alone
Gyptian – Life Hard
Beres Hammond – Cry No More
Chino – From Morning
Bob Marley – Jah Live
Luciano – Jah Live
Tarrus Riley – Love Created I
Duane Stephenson – August Town
Mikey Spice – I Cry You Cry
Fiona – Stop Talking
As a tribute to the late Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson, who passed away last month, I’m presenting an unreleased interview–never heard until now–with Cleveland “Clevie” Browne, who along with Steely, were Jamaica’s top musicians and producers during the mid to late 80s into the early ’90s. Very seldom does a working musical partnership last so long and include so much success. This interview was recorded in February of 2008. Clevie had just come back from the first annual Reggae Academy Awards show in Jamaica. He talked about his run with Steely as they recorded at breakneck pace and delivered classic one-rhythm albums to VP in the US. I asked Clevie about today’s deejays compared to people he’d worked with in the past like Tiger and Gregory Peck. He spoke about recording the Joe Gibbs tribute album and remembering the smell and taste of the studio and other studios like Channel One. Perhaps most important to Clevie is keeping the older Jamaican music styles alive. You’ll realize his commitment when you listen to this interview.
It was hot and humid in the Golden Touch studio during tonight’s recording. In the coming weeks and months, some studio equipment will be swapped out for new pieces and the studio will be in a state of flux. I’m also getting married in September so things will just be generally busy. It’s very possible that there will not be another Reggae Rhythm Update episode until October. I hope you will stay subscribed because I plan to continue with Reggae Rhythm Update for a very long time. Thanks to listener Lynda for suggesting this ska show. 
Tonight’s show is a special tribute to the late troubled man with an amazing career. After the reggae cover versions–some beautiful and some barely passable–I play a request for a listener that called in to the voice mail line. Thanks to all the people that have been posting comments on the web site, e-mailing me, and leaving voice mails. It means a lot to me to know that you appreciate the thought that goes into these shows.