Some may  not readily associate the dancehall scene with breast cancer awareness, canned food drives, homelessness awareness fundraisers and free holiday parties for kids. But that’s just what I discovered after sitting down with Buddah from Sibling Music. During our one on one interview I learned a lot about the creator of one of the most popular Wednesday night dance scenes in Fairfield County.

As mentioned in my previous post, ” It’s All About the Music Baby!” I skip down memory lane reflecting on Aberdeen Street. Well today- I had the opportunity to discuss a fellow Jamaican’s view on the culture of dancehall music.

Way before he was known as Buddah, Oraine Ennis was born in Coorville Gardens, Kingston, Jamaica. He recalls as a young boy his mother used to give him money to pay for private music lessons. Little did she know he kept the money, choosing instead to purchase records at a near by music shop. Little Oraine would then go to a friend’s house to play his new records. Oraine always loved music for as far back as he can remember. At that time he would often be found watching a local sound system called Squad 51. He was infatuated with music and listened every chance he could get.

Later, as a young student at Sacred Heart University (Oraine attended on a full soccer scholarship) he found himself playing music for the soccer team house parties. He only used a Sony Walkman and and DJ mixer.

In 2001 he met fellow DJ Marlon Famous and DJ Fabulous. Using old school turn tables he began to play with their sound system.

Anika: When and why did you start Energy Wednesday?

Buddah: I started Energy February 20, 2006. I wanted somewhere to go-we were all young people whom wanted to dance and enjoy good music. There was already a Monday and Thursday weekly event at the Yellow Bird Social Club. I chose Wednesday night by default.

Anika: What’s the difference if any between dancehall music and reggae?

Buddah: I don’t personally think there is a difference. However by definition, dancehall music has faster tempo with hardcore subject matter-where as Lover’s Rock and culture reggae is slower tempo with socially conscious themes. All of these are subsets of reggae music.

Anika: What’s your favorite reggae song?

Buddah: “No Respect” by Buju Banton.

Anika: What’s your favorite dancehall song?

Buddah: “Toast” by Koffee, the lyrics are about gratefulness.

Anika: Who’s your favorite artist?

Buddah: Agent Sasco.

Anika: What’s your most memorable Energy Wednesday ?

Buddah: Valentine’s 2018 Special guest Dexta Daps performs at Energy Wednesday with about 800 people in attendance.

Anika: What’s problematic in dancehall culture ?

Buddah: Its very competitive among artists, DJ’s and promoters.

Anika: What’s really positive about dancehall music?

Buddah: It’s always great when we can come together and express ourselves through the music.

 Important Highlights

All canned food items collected at Energy Wednesday is donated to King’s Pantry in Bridgeport, CT.

All monies raised in May are donated to YMCA Alpha House an organization providing services to Connecticut’s homeless population.

Buddah does a yearly, free  Halloween  costume party for children.

Until next time-go forth in love. Maybe I’ll catch you in person at the next Energy Wednesday.