Etana - The Strong One

Etana – The Strong One

Review by Mawunyo Gbogbo

There’s something admirable about an artist who doesn’t sell their soul for fame and riches. All the better when the music they produce resonates and has meaning. Reggae star, Etana, is a prime example of one of those artists. “The Strong One” alternates between chilled out tunes you can relax to and the type of songs that come with a powerful message. It’s these songs that will have a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of those who are fortunate enough to hear them.

Born Shauna McKenzie, the Jamaican beauty evidently takes her position as a role model seriously and aspires to maintain a positive vibe in the music she releases. Her journey towards this professional epiphany was by no means a smooth ride. After dropping out of college, Etana took a stab at superstardom by joining a girl group called “Gift.” At first she conformed to the sexy and glamorous image preferred by industry executives, but walked out in the middle of a video shoot for the group’s lead single when she decided enough was enough. Her fans are the beneficiaries of this rebellion, as they now get to experience Etana at her very best.

This album is more than just a beautiful collection of songs. It contains something far more profound. If you’ve ever tried to decipher a Sean Paul track you’ll know that reggae music isn’t always the easiest of genres to interpret. But even those who aren’t hardened reggae fans should get the general gist of Etana’s stance on a number of issues. It’s unlikely there’ll be much that’ll be lost on you. On the other hand, in the absence of lyrics that are easy to understand, having a tight melody to latch on to is a must, and each of the songs on this album have just that. The first track is far too preachy and highly skippable, but it gets much, much better.

Whether it’s a cry against violence and injustice or a simple plea for all to love one another, Etana does it well. The song “Caltariba System” is a poignant look at recycled victimhood, but this sombre song is sung to such a beautiful melody, you can’t help but want to listen to it… over and over again. Sometimes the songs about the harsh realities of life are the ones that stay with you the longest. The song “Roots” is also a hot track and was a hit in Jamaica.

Etana covers all bases, even throwing some love songs in there. In “Warrior Love” she sticks by her man through the tough times and together they enjoy the good times.

This album is strong on a number of fronts. The lyrics are powerful and the vocals exemplary, but all of that doesn’t mean much if it isn’t back up with strong beats. “The Strong One” indeed is. Etana has delivered an album that should last throughout the generations. It would almost be a crime if it didn’t.