Donna Marie

Born in the United Kingdom, Donna Marie passed her formative years in Jamaica, where her vocal talent first emerged through lead duties in the choir of her local Pentecostal church. After leaving the choir she entered a band that featured her on both lead and backing vocals. Her solo path opened in 1989 with recordings alongside the Pioneers, establishing her as a lovers rock singer in the UK. The debut single ‘On The Outside’ followed, a cover of the theme from the Australian soap opera Prisoner Cell Block H. Four overlooked albums with the group came next, after which she concentrated on sessions with Delroy Wilson that produced the seductive ‘Dance With Me’. She sustained a respected industry presence for several years, including work with vocalist Don Campbell. A July 1994 appearance at London’s Intermezzo nightspot led Jeff Peart of the Boiler Room production team to sign her. With Peart and the crew she completed Now, whose chart-topping track ‘Think Twice’ offered her reading of the Celine Dion hit. The single enjoyed strong sales throughout South America, reached the top of the Italian charts, and held the number 1 reggae position. In 1995 she remained highly visible, performing beside Bunny Wailer at his prominent Finsbury Park concert in London, appearing with Beres Hammond in the UK, and sharing stages with Shabba Ranks in Jamaica. Her 1997 tour of Brazil and further South American territories met with fervent acclaim. Television slots followed, streets carried banners publicizing the dates, and her image appeared on the front pages of daily nationals. The exceptional reception established Donna Marie as the Queen of Reggae in South American eyes.