Guestlist Recommends... Queen Ifrica
Thursday 15th December 2011 | Osh
One of the most influential and inspiring female vocalist to be aired out of Jamaica.
Queen Ifrica has managed to make a name for herself in a genre predominantly dominated by males, and it clearly has not deterred her from becoming an icon in the reggae industry. She has been likened to artists such as Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt all of whom are ex-members of the I-threes.
Ifrica’s music is a reflection of her strong roots in the Rastafarian faith; and she firmly believes her duty is to be an example to women through entertainment.
Music is undoubtedly intrinsic to her as her father Derrick Morgan was a ska and rock steady veteran in the 60s and 70s. Ifrica was discovered in the mid 90s by singer and producer Tony Rebel. However, she significantly gained prominence in 2000s from her hit single ‘Daddy,’ somewhat controversial because of its subject matter. The song addresses the topic of molestation and incest and the story being told from a first person’s perspective makes it even more potent.
Ifrica tends to sing meaningful, socio-political topics as evident in singles like ‘Times Like These, ‘Serve and Protect,’ and ‘Keep It To Yourself’ to name a few. Nonetheless, she still has some lovers rock tunes that are equally as good. Her vocal range can be deemed as gruff but this, if anything adds to the conviction of the message.
Ifrica doesn't just talk the talk but she also walks the walk - she’s involved in several community activities in the heart of Kingston's inner-city and she has also performed at numerous free shows whereby proceeds go towards community aid. She is definitely a force to be reckoned with and her frankness will stay with her throughout.
To catch the latest on the Queen herself check out her facebook QueenIfrica.