Etana, born in Kingston, Jamaica, emerged as a distinctive voice in the music industry in 2006 with her debut song “Wrong Address,” blending acoustic folk, roots reggae, and neo-soul influences. Her breakout single, reflecting on the employment challenges in violence-stricken Jamaican communities, achieved number one on several local charts, marking her as a significant new talent. Etana, whose name means “the strong one,” continued her success with singles like “Warrior Love” and “Roots,” which combined acoustic rhythms with African chants and soulful elements.
Her debut album The Strong One, released through VP Records in June 2008, received international acclaim and featured a mix of reggae, Rastafarian anthems, and lovers’ rock, highlighting her versatile artistry. In 2010, Etana released her second album, Free Expressions, focusing on self-expression and featuring songs that address global issues and personal experiences. She then followed that up with two other full-length projects.
Etana’s journey into music began at 14 when she won a talent competition, and she later pursued a career in music after initially aspiring to be a nurse and briefly joining the group Gift. Her return to Kingston led to an opportunity to tour as a backup vocalist for Richie Spice, which reignited her passion for music and led to her decision to pursue a solo career. Etana’s music, which combines social consciousness with romantic themes, has garnered international recognition and awards, including performances at significant events like the United Nations General Assembly Hall in 2015.