Queens Of Roots: Reggae’s Female Voices

Women in Reggae take centre stage on Queens Of Roots, the latest project from Common Ground International and Jah Fingers Music. This 10-track set digs deep into the early to mid-1980s, bringing together solo singers and female-led groups from the UK reggae scene, with most of the tracks making their first appearance on an LP.

Mwanamke Mwafrika, who later became Akabu, opens the set with the powerful 1982 cut Ethiopians Live It. Sharon Little contributes two strong cuts, including the roots-heavy Don’t Mash Up Creation and the genuinely rare Jah Love Is Gold, originally issued only on a hard-to-find Gorgon 7″ single. That version of tune track also brings the album to a close.

Abakush, or Abacush, features three times. Founded in 1981 by singer-songwriter Denise “Jena” Davis and guitarist Gwarn Cozmic C., the group is represented by Rock Attack from 1984, plus Cush and Batta Dem, released in 1983 and 1984 respectively.

Paulette Pearce’s Live And Learn, first released on Small Axe Records in 1984, is another highlight. Her message is simple and positive, but she delivers it with real conviction. The tune gets extra bite from its sharp horn section.

Nia & Natty, the duo of Barbara Grossett and Naomi Thomas, bring One Love Stylee, produced by Black Slate drummer Desmond Mahoney in 1981.

And then there’s Hortense Ellis, the only artist from Jamaica featured here. Her track Jah Creation, produced by Phil Pratt in 1979, is pure rootical steppers territory, driven by a deep bassline, gentle organ and an unhurried, meditative atmosphere.

Queens Of Roots digs into the shelves and brings some deserving women back into focus. For reggae collectors, that’s reason enough to pay attention.