Although they are from different backgrounds, singer Empress Uneek and music producer Michael “Mikey Shines” Stewart found common ground working on ‘Not Forbidden’, their first song together.

The track was released on May 27 by the latter’s Tell Dem Music.

“It was a great vibe working with di sistren, shi have a nice voice an’ things went smoothly,” said Stewart.

‘Not Forbidden’ was released simultaneously in South Florida with ‘Reclaimed’, Empress Uneek’s first book. She said both have messages of empowerment.

“They go hand in hand, both projects are very special to me because they show a different perspective of Empress Uneek then and who she has become,” the South Florida-based artist stated.

Born in The Bahamas, Empress Uneek was raised in New York City and Fort Lauderdale. Over the years, she has recorded songs for several Jamaican producers including Ed Robinson, Hopeton Lindo and Leroy Sibbles.

Stewart, who is from Jamaica, also lived for many years in New York before moving to South Florida where he has worked with artists such as Jimmy Riley, Mikey Spice and Wayne Wade.

Edited and published by Tara Smith Jarrett, ‘Reclaimed’ was inspired by movements like #MeToo.

“The book shows that every scar can become a story of strength, and that our most painful chapters can lead to the most profound awakenings,” said Empress Uneek.

WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL