DEBUT ALBUM “THE STRONG ONE” IN STORES NEXT WEEK JUNE 17
MIAMI – Etana’s highly anticipated VP debut The Strong One is just around the corner and critics have already begun their praises. Arguably the most prolific female vocalist in reggae today, Etana has struck a chord with the masses and is winning the hearts of the people one song at a time.
She made her debut with the hit “Wrong Address” in 2006, “Roots” in 2007, “Warrior Love” in 2008, received numerous awards in her native country, rocked major stage shows and will now unveil her first studio album boasting production by reggae legends Dean Frasier, Carl James and Robert Livingston on June 17, 2008.
Jonathan Cunningham from the Broward-Palm Beach New Times says, “She’s the Jamaican equivalent of an India Arie. Her lyrics are a refreshing push against the mainstream, and the musicianship behind them is strong and original enough that her songs can’t be denied.”
Popular music site Pitchfork Media chose Etana’s upcoming album as their dancehall pick of the month. “Etana has been around for a little while now, dropping fulsome and soulful voicings on a variety of riddims….
This album is worthy of such high praise at least in part because it’s important to remember that syrupy love songs have as much of a place in Jamaican culture and the dance itself as conscious or badman tunes,” states Dave Stelfox.
Warrior Love
The Strong One contains brand new material as well as her current singles that have already impacted Jamaican radio and other international reggae charts – including her sultry new love song, “Warrior Love,” which is currently #1 on Jamaica, England, U.S. and Virgin Islands reggae charts, “Roots,” the socio-political tune that remained at the top of Jamaican charts for over 22 weeks, as well as her breakthrough anthem “Wrong Address,” “a heartbreaking acoustic reggae lament about a woman who gets rejected for a job because she comes from the wrong hood,” stated from Spin Magazine. With spirit and song, Etana celebrates life and love, mends the disheartened and spreads wisdom throughout this cohesive musical testament.
Early Years
Born in Jamaica and raised in Miami, the talented artist landed her first major gig as a back-up singer for roots sensation Richie Spice. Since then, she has scored three solo #1 hits, toured the globe from the United States to Europe to Africa and was recently awarded Best Female Vocalist at the 2008 International World and Reggae Music Awards, the Excellence in Music & Entertainment (EME) Awards, IRIE FM Radio Awards as well as 1st annual Reggae Academy Awards.
According to Rob Kenner from Vibe Magazine, “at 23, she has already established herself as a formidable performer and songwriter whose music and reputation precedes her.” Incorporating elements of jazz, pop, rock and reggae, Etana has cultivated a pristine sound that touches on real life experiences and enlightens her listeners. “It is straight from the heart, straight from the soul, straight from the people and everyday life,” as Etana describes.
