ÐÓ°ÉÐÔ°É

Where in the world is DJ Trauma? In sunny Jamaica making waves.

The world famous deejay, who tours with celebrities such as Dave Chappelle and Jay-Z, hosted his fifth annual Trauma Unit Retreat at the S Hotel in Montego Bay, St James, June 5 - 9, and from all indications it was a blast. The retreat is described as "an exhilarating experience that redefines what wellness means for our vibrant and music-loving community".

"Actually, I was planning to do it somewhere else this year, and then Nova Perry, Ambassador Nick Perry's daughter, said 'I think you should have it in Jamaica.' I visited the property last September and I was very impressed ... everybody in Jamaica was very welcoming," a happy DJ Trauma, whose given name is Tayari McIntosh, told THE STAR.

This year he had a community of just under 150 persons enjoying all the island has to offer. The package included all-inclusive food and drinks at S Hotel, five days of events with great DJs, morning wellness activities, golf tournament (golf fees not included), transportation to events and more. He liberally praised the hotel staff.

"This might have been the best staff we have ever worked with. A lot of people think this is the best one so far," he said.

On another note, he added, "I thought the Government would have helped out more because we wanted to bring the Dave Chappelle show to Jamaica .. but maybe next time."

Shortly after he arrived in the island, DJ Trauma made his way to the Herbert Morrison Technical High School in St James, where his donation of US$10,000 (approximately J$1.58 million) worth of high-end studio equipment provided the music programme with a big boost. He singled out his visit to Herbert Morrison as one of the highlights of his trip.

"These kids are some of the most amazing kids I have ever seen. Their advanced technical skills are mind-blowing," he shared. Another highlight was one that wasn't scripted.

"We were sitting at dinner ... me, Estelle, Dave Chappelle ... listening to the band and so we got closer. Then they started playing one of Dave's favourite songs, Bam Bam, and then out of nowhere, Kranium popped up and he started performing. It was an impromptu, special moment. We do this because we love the music. The centre of my retreat is wellness and music," he said.

Another big moment was Estelle doing her radio show from the retreat and interviewing reggae star Christopher Martin.

"That was sooooo good. His performance was amazing. We also did a soundclash ... Estelle and me versus Christopher Martin and DJ Mars, who is Usher's tour DJ," said DJ Trauma.

The retreat, he said, was his way of officially kicking off a hectic summer schedule, which includes travels to Sicily, Cannes, London, Abu Dhabi with Chappelle and a number of big festivals.