Reggae-dancehall songstress Black Queen recently performed at the annual Keeping Abreast luncheon in association with the Jamaica Reach to Recovery and Sagicor Life Foundation on October 28.
“It was a really enjoyable experience, they hosted a virtual event this year as a result of the pandemic, and I had to perform through a Zoom link, but I am glad I was able to participate and use my voice to raise awareness and my influence to make change. We all have the power to reduce the impact of cancer, so I am playing my part,” she said.
She performed the single, ‘Nobody Knows My Pain’, a tribute to Nicko Chromatic who passed away after losing his battle with kidney disease. Black Queen is committed to use her voice to raise awareness, make healthier lifestyle choices, champion the doctors and nurses making a difference, support cancer patients and survivors and fight for a cancer-free world.
The Keeping Abreast Luncheon, which has been part of the JCS/Jamaica Reach to Recovery for the past two decades, also serves as a major fundraiser to support the Cancer Society’s ongoing programmes of screening and education. Black Queen’s new EP reflects similar lifestyle values.
“Health and spiritual wellness are big themes on my recently released EP, Black N Proud,” the artiste whose real name is Semonie Giles, said.
She is pleased with the early sales on her 7-track effort which include standout songs include ‘Black and Proud’, ‘Thankful’ and ‘You Say’.
“It’s a joy to be able to put out this EP, not everyone has the same journey, they see the glitter but not the pain to get this far, so this is a major milestone for me. This EP has a universal message of love, self-love and health which everyone can relate to,” she said.
Black Queen grew up in the inner city community of Waterhouse where she lived with her mom and siblings. She started modeling and was eventually introduced to the Ashe Group of Performing Arts. She got married soon after and started a family of her own.
She has high hopes for her new EP.
“Don’t judge someone by the colour of his skin, or the colour of his eyes but by the meditation of his heart,” Black Queen said.
