Nadine Sutherland - Reggae Artiste (Contemporary)

Nadine Sutherland's career history fits none of the stereotypes commonly attributed to Jamaican popular music stars. Her records, like those of former mentor Marcia Griffiths, have won her a reputation with reggae (and to some extent, club) audiences from across the board. From roots to ragga, from ballads to r&b, Nadine's sung in all manner of styles with such vivacity (and at times, soul-baring emotional power), it's no wonder she's been widely acclaimed as the best female Jamaican singer of her generation.

She has been blessed with a great melodic voice, beautiful looks, songwriting skills, and a captivating stage presence. This has made Nadine Sutherland an International star. There's nothing, repeat nothing, half-hearted about a Nadine Sutherland tune. When she sings of a broken relationship - as she has done frequently - it's as if her world is falling apart right there in the studio.

Then there's the verve and enthusiasm she brings to any bashment hit, and especially when she works alongside top Jamaican dancehall stars such as Buju Banton, Cobra, Terror Fabulous and Spragga Benz. It was Terror Fabulous who'd had the good fortune to dee-jay on Nadine's 'Action' for Mad House label, as the record became a worldwide, reggae dancehall anthem on its release in 1993; Fabulous having been brought in by producer Dave Kelly at the last minute. Both artistes signed to US major label East-West shortly afterwards. In Kingston, Jamaica, she recorded for Bobby Digital or Fatis Burrell, whose Xterminator label released her Nadine album in 1997. It was an excellent set too. The best female Jamaican vocal album of the nineties by some distance, and showcasing a flair for songwriting that eclipses anything heard from either her precedessors or contemporaries thus far.

See you in Jamaica.