Representing one of Reggae music’s newest faces, Etana has emerged as a powerful and soulful voice of the people. The Jamaican-born singer-songwriter addresses pressing issues in her lyrics, and her blend of Roots Reggae music incorporates hints of Jazz and R&B. Etana credits a wealth of artists amongst her influences, ranging from Reggae stars Bob Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Sizzla Kalongi to R&B crooners like Whitney Houston, Lauren Hill and Jill Scott.

Landing a place in the girl group ‘GIFT’, a brainchild of Universal Records, Etana found that the provocative outfits and the general direction of the band (and of girl groups in the new millennium) did not appeal to her, and the singer left the band and, for a brief while, the music industry. Etana later toured with Richie Spice, and created so much buzz as a backing singer that 5th Element management encouraged her to make a solo record.

One of her earliest tracks ‘Wrong Address’ catapulted Etana onto the dancehall Reggae radar in 2006, receiving a great reception from Reggae fans and much airplay throughout the Caribbean. The song peaked at #1 on a number of Reggae music charts and established Etana as a successful artist. This was followed by the single ‘Roots’, which went on to become a Reggae anthem with the hook ‘You can’t water down and dilute’ and heavy African music influence. In 2009 her debut album ‘The Strong One’ claimed the Album of the Year Award at the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), and also at the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards (EME).

Etana is performing at The Wardrobe alongside Bunnington Judah and the Level Vibes Band, and Butta Salaman on Saturday 30th July.

Starts 9pm – late

Tickets £15 in advance from:
Tribe Records, Leeds, LS2 7DG
Jumbo Records, Leeds, LS2 8LQ
The Wardrobe

£20 on the door