New York: Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie Jam Radio disclosed that The Doctor Beenie Man, the musical genius behind such classics as “Matie,” “Slam,” “Romie,” “Old Dog,” “Dancehall Queen,” “Who Am I,” “Girls Dem Sugar” (featuring Mýa), “Dude,” “King of the Dancehall” and “Back It Up” will be presented with a proclamation from US Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), for over three decades of outstanding contribution to the reggae industry. The official presentation will take place at the inaugural Reggae Rhythm & Blues Concert slated for Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, New Yorkon Labor Day Sunday, September 4, 2011.
“Beenie Man has an impressive catalogue of timeless hit songs. He is a celebrated dancehall recorder, a seasoned performer and is worth of this very important United States recognition,” Clarke said.
Beenie Man (aka Moses Davis), who was born in Waterhouse, Jamaica started his career as a youngster. He garnered his first real break on the international scene in 1997 with the hit single “Who Am I” that was a staple on Hot 97 radio in New York and earned multiple spins on urban stations across the USA. The single quickly went Gold and opened the door for Beenie Man to grace the pages of Newsweek and other major media outlets. His album on Virgin Records, ‘ART & LIFE’ was certified Gold and won him an all important Grammy award for ‘Reggae Album’ of the Year in 2001. His international star power was further cemented when Janet Jackson, the Neptunes and Lil’ Kim all turned up as guests on his 2002 album Tropical Storm. He has since released a number of big hits in Jamaica and delivered many stellar performances including a crowning performance at Sumfest 2010.
Joining the Doctor Beenie Man on stage at Reggae Rhythm & Blues will be Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, the successful R&B, pop singer, songwriter, keyboardist, record producer, film producer and entrepreneur who has written and produced songs for some of the biggest names in contemporary music, including Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, Whitney Houston and TLC. As a solo artiste, Babyface has recorded some of the genre’s biggest tracks, including “Tender Love,” “Whip Appeal,” “Give U My Heart,” “For the Cool I You,” “When Can I See You,” “Rock Bottom,” “This Is For The Lover In You,” “Every time I Close My Eye,” “Reason For Breathing,” “Grown & Sexy” and many others. R&B singer Monica, Tarrus Riley and soca star Machel Montano are the other acts confirmed for the event.
