Roots singer Empress Idama wasted little time during her month-long trip to Jamaica in September. She did a handful of shows and recorded a new song.

Empress Idama performed at popular events in the capital Kingston and St. Elizabeth, a rural parish in southern Jamaica. She also cut ‘To Have A Home’, a song produced by Ricardo Simpson for Blaze Music.

It is the follow-up to ‘Spirit’ and ‘Captive’, which were produced by Simpson and Sidney Mills, respectively. Her songs have similar themes.

“The purpose of my music is to heighten awareness, encourage and inspire others, be a voice for the voiceless and to use music as a medium to make the world a better place,” said Empress Idama.

Her shows in Jamaica broke a 20-year drought since she last performed in her homeland. Determined to make a mark there, Empress Idama performed at Kingston Night Market and Rub A Dub Tuesdayz, two weekly events.

Born in Kingston, she migrated to the United States in her youth and has lived in New York City for many years. While her recording career began 20 years ago, Empress Idama has been active on the Big Apple scene for decades, opening shows for artists such as Sugar Minott, Junior Reid, Eek A Mouse and Everton Blender. 

WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL