Artistes look to 2012

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

It was another interesting year on the Jamaican music scene. As the artistes wish 2011 goodbye, they are looking positively forward to what 2012 will bring.

Speaking with The Sunday Gleaner recently, a few artistes reflected on the year that was and what's to come from them.

Dancehall deejay Spice told The Sunday Gleaner, "For me, 2011, having just come back from giving birth to my daughter in January, I think I did fairly well by jumping back to work and getting one of my biggest collabs with Missy Elliott with the song Fun. That was one of my treasured moments. But overall the year was a very challenging one for me and I'm looking for a much better 2012."

The artiste said ringing in the new year for her would be done at church and among her family as she does every year. As for what she hopes to accomplish in the new year, she said, "Definitely more international collabs so I can take the 'Brand Spice' to another level and to flood the airwaves with more singles that my fans can enjoy."

She laughingly added, "Also, my new year's resolution is to make enough money to buy my Bugatti."

Another entertainer pleased with his work of late is Wayne Marshall. The artiste released his first rhythm compilation, the Matrimoney rhythm, which he describes as being a hit.

"I had a great year last year in terms of releasing hit singles and growing musically. Wedding Crashers on the Matrimoney rhythm from Sean Paul and Fambo is going to be on Sean's album, so we looking forward to that and a lot more productions," he said.

Sign with Ghetto Youths

Marshall has been busy working on his album, learning the keyboard and making music. He added, "I've done a a lot of writing and recording that will help me hit the ground running in the new year. I'm about to sign with Ghetto Youths for an album which will be executively produced by Damian Marley. So that's on the top of the agenda. I'm also working closely with Sean Paul on new recordings and productions, so the prospects are looking good for 2012. The people need to listen out for all the new singles and videos and some big super collaboration to come out within the first two months of the year."

Having established a name for herself in recent years, Tifa had a busy 2011, explaining that it was good for her in terms of songs, performances, compilations and deals.

"It has definitely set the pace for what is to come in 2012. I plan to be a little more aggressive both here and in marketing myself overseas. I had two songs on the Strictly the Best compilation and that's crazy for a female. Swagging (WTF) went number one in the United Kingdom and made BBC's urban playlist. I signed a world-wide deal with Royalty Networks, so it wasn't bad at all and I have much farther to go," Tifa explained.

Tifa says she is yet to find a name for her upcoming album, but said the effort will "tell a story" and satisfy her fans.

Up-and-coming singer Raine Seville said she had a great year that saw her exploring new sides to her music.

She said, "I had a very productive and blessed 2011. I got involved in a lot of major projects, gigs/shows that weren't originally planned for. I did five videos, worked with a lot of new producers, built my network, worked with a few charities/children's homes, received a lot of love and advice from people noticing my work and I overcame all obstacles/challenges. I definitely accomplished building brand Raine Seville in 2011 and for that I'm grateful."

This year, Seville plans to work on improving her brand, her vocals, image, visibility and lyrical content.