Making it crystal clear that he was there just to honour Spice, Beenie Man, however, took two minutes to answer a few questions from The Gleaner on Thursday night. He was one of the guests at dancehall artiste Spice’s 25 years celebration in the music industry and the launch of her new album, Mirror 25 , at the 23 Dominica Drive venue which is owned and operated by J. Wray & Nephew Limited.
“I am feeling very good and I am feeling very proud,” Beenie Man told The Gleaner of his double honour this week. On Independence Day, it was announced that Moses Anthony ‘Beenie Man’ Davis was inducted into the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican Government for his contribution to music. That same day, he, Bounty Killer, Third World and Patricia Chin of VP Records were the recipients of the Reggae Icon Award at the Grand Gala held at the National Stadium in Kingston.
Beenie Man and Bounty Killer shared the stage for a memorable performance. However, ever since he appeared at Grand Gala on Tuesday, fans have been expressing concern at the fact that Beenie Man’s left hand was wrapped in white bandage. “Not thumping any walls,” he said with a slight grin in response to a question from The Gleaner about the little finger on his hand, which was now sporting a splint after the bandage had been removed.
“Mi a drop off a chair and true mi a drop mi a try balance myself,” Beenie Man said by way of explanation about his fractured finger. Quizzed if that was the official story, Beenie Man replied emphatically, “Yes ..
. that’s the official story.” Without missing a beat, the Who Am I (Sim Simma) artiste informed that he is working on a new album, which is currently untitled.
He shared that he was at the studio recording some songs, when he remembered that it was Spice’s album launch and he had to “come give Spice her flowers” and then return to the studio to complete his work. He was accompanied by his fiancée, Camille Lee. Before moving off he added, “It’s all about Simma Restaurant .
.. it’s going to be at Shocking Vibes.
In the next three to four weeks it will be opened.” It was in March that the Dancehall King had a soft opening of Simma Seafood Restaurant and Bar at 22 Mona Road in St Andrew. Shocking Vibes is the Springvale Avenue-based studio where Beenie Man spent his time when he was a business partner with Patrick Roberts and leading the renowned Shocking Vibes Crew.
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