While her music is rooted in contemporary and traditional gospel, Geneva Ayre believes there is no limit to God’s message. So, for her latest song the singer stepped out of her comfort zone.

‘Emmanuel’, that song, was released in May. She co-produced it with her husband, Andrew Ayre, for their Ayre2Ear Music company.

“This release differs from my previous originals in its blend of the contemporary worship sound with the authentic Jamaican influence of Nyahbingi. It reflects my mandate to promote God-centered worship and serves as a reminder of God’s infallible and faithful nature,” she said.

Nyahbinghi drumming is synonymous with the Rastafarian movement in Jamaica. It was first featured on ‘Oh Carolina’, a massive hit for The Ffolkes Brothers in 1959; that song was covered in 1993 by Shaggy and was a big hit in the United Kingdom.

Typical of contemporary gospel acts, Ayre is not afraid to experiment with so-called secular rhythms.

“I don’t impose creative boundaries, but I do approach each song with sensitivity to its unique needs. I embrace diversity in sound, but I try to remain rooted in my Jamaican heritage as I explore and express an eclectic musical identity,” she said.

Ayre’s previous songs include ‘King of Glory’, and ‘Tremble’, a song originally done in 2016 by American gospel group Mosaic MSC.

WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL