Lisa Hanna and Chronixx—
RED-HOT singjay Chronixx and Youth and Culture Minister Lisa Hanna have knocked heads in a heated Twitter war.
According to JA-Blogz, Chronixx appears to have ruffled Hanna’s feathers when he criticised the Government for not creating a suitable venue in Jamaica for live music.
“I’m laughing at this dumb government who have never erected a live music venue in honour of reggae music even though it is the only reason why people visiting this beautiful island of bankruptcy… I’m laughing because I know something that they don’t know. Miss Hanna and Mr… I can never remember his name. I think it’s time we sit and listen what artistes have learnt from the rest of the world,” Chronixx’s tweet read.
Not amused, Hanna respond curtly.
“I love your music and your passion. However, I want to remind you, that both yourself and other artistes are benefiting today from the trade agreements now in place for cultural and creative services. Just a month ago I concluded a meeting on foreign trade for cultural services as already many of our cultural goods have zero tariffs for international trade. What we need is more young people to get involved in the business of culture. I have been putting the resources to train our young people. Over 9,000 this year. I have personally called you and left messages on your phone and never got a response. Because I would like to hear your ideas that can be implemented. Stop blaming and lumping all politicians together. It’s unfair and untrue. Blessed love.”
Jamaican musicians have bemoaned the absence of a world-class live venue for years. Major outdoor festivals such as Reggae Sunsplash and Reggae Sumfest have been held in Montego Bay at Jarrett Park and Catherine Hall, respectively.
For years, international acts have performed at the National Arena when in Kingston. There were consistent complaints of poor sound at that location.
The National Arena, which hosted last night’s Arthur Guinness concert, is the premier live-show venue in Kingston.
Chronixx has been doing the international rounds in recent months. He appeared on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight’s Show on NBC in July and played several of the European summer festivals.
His EP, Dread & Terrible, was number one on the Billboard Reggae Album chart.