HERALDED, AWARD-WINNING REGGAE SINGER EXPANDS HER MUSICAL HORIZONS ON POWERFUL NEW ALBUM
Heralded singer and performer JAH’MILA releases her brand new album Woman of the Sun — a sonic exaltation of new beginnings and growth.
Named one of 20 new releases you need to hear this summer by CBC Music, Woman of the Sun is a singular mash-up of influence and vibe with a reggae base and salt-brushed flair. And while she is undoubtedly a premiere dominating force in the reggae genre, on this new album the Kingston, Jamaica-born Jah’Mila expands her musical horizons and demonstrates her expansive and dynamic range as a singer and songwriter.
The follow-up to her JUNO-nominated debut album, Roots Girl, Woman of the Sun (produced by Ben Barton Creelman) presents a rich and meticulous soundscape that combines hallmarks of reggae’s storied history with soul melodies, high-gloss pop sheen, and signature honey vocals. Self-assured, curious, and reflective, Jah’Mila delivers an all-encompassing celebration of culture, community, and collaboration on this, her sophomore album.
The title track is also the record’s kick-off and its thesis statement: a celebration of female empowerment and an anthem draws its influence and attitude from classics by Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, and Donna Summer. In a time where women are often encouraged to be “bad bitches” or find love to be empowered, Jah’Mila takes an alternative approach on “Woman of the Sun” encouraging women to be their authentic selves and celebrate femininity in all of its beauty without shying away from the tougher parts of the divine feminine experience.
Holding fast to authenticity – and the spirit which that brings and invites – is ever-present across this new record. Woman of the Sun acts as a seamless bridge between two foundational places – Jamaica and Atlantic Canada – that continue to inspire and drive the acclaimed artist.
Jah’Mila’s deep relationship with reggae music is front and center from the jump. The legendary dancehall toaster U-Roy, featured on the lead-off title track, heralds the album’s arrival and helps set the stage for the musical journey to come. Kingston icons Sly Dunbar and Robbie Lyn provide drums and keyboards on several tracks including “Reggae Nuh Dead” (a tribute to the music of her hometown), the sultry “Déjà Vu,” and the propulsive ode to faith in Jah, “Never Fail.” Honouring her childhood and upbringing, “We Got Love” was written by Jah’Mila’s father Earl “Chinna” Smith — who also plays guitar on several Woman of the Sun tracks — and offers a timeless and relatable reflection on the plight of many families across the world.
These important contributions were recorded in Jamaica at Tuff Gong Studios, a longtime resource for Caribbean and international musicians alike.
An undying harmonious spirit of friendship and community traces irrefutable lines between Jah’Mila’s past and present all the way from Jamaica to her new home on the East Coast of Canada, where she has lived for the last 7 years.
The slow-grooving “East Coast Anthem” showcases verses by Mi’kmaq rapper Wolf Castle and Nova Scotia R&B star Aquakultre and a thrilling fiddle outro from Wendy MacIsaac all while paying homage to one of reggae’s most legendary motifs, “Bam Bam,” famously interpreted by artists such as the powerhouse Jamaican dancehall DJ and singer Sister Nancy.
The poppy and radio-ready “Bad Habit” continues to demonstrate the power of a family atmosphere that makes Atlantic Canada truly special. Featuring Caribbean-Canadian rapper Kayo, string players who are members of Symphony Nova Scotia, a funk bass player from the West Coast, and the inimitable backup vocals of the heralded Smith Sisters – Reeny, Haliey & Micah – who also contribute to a number across the album. The reflective “Walk Alone” features trumpet and guitars from its co-writer, David Myles.
Woman of the Sun marks not only the culmination of years of hard work and recognition, but also — in many ways — the start of a new beginning for Jah’Mila. After carefully planting and cultivating the seeds of her career, Jah’Mila emerges with a clarity of vision, openness of spirit, and her sights on a horizon that grows ever brighter by the day.
Woman of the Sun is available to stream and buy today, Friday, June 21, 2024.
In support of the new album, Jah’Mila announces a series of Canadian tour dates for the summer and fall. These performances are as follows:
July 01 – Halifax, NS @ Pier 21 (Canada Day Celebrations)
July 27 – Lockeport, NS @ Harmony Bazaar Festival of Women & Song
August 02 – Toronto, ON @ Island Soul 2024
August 05 – Chester, NS @ Chester Playhouse
August 10 – Georgetown, PEI @ Cloggeroo Island Folk Fest
August 24 – Annapolis Royal, NS @ King’s Theatre
September 07 – Parrsboro, NS @ Ship’s Company Theatre (2 shows)
September 27 – Souris, PEI @ Goolaholla Festival
September 28 – Wolfville, NS @ Deep Roots Music Festival
November 23 – Margaretsville, NS @ Evergreen Theatre