5 Questions With Ikaya

Reggae singer, Ikaya, whose musical journey is liberally sprinkled with purposeful activism, recently launched her Working Girl Movement, a brand which recognises the importance of sisterhood in making great things come to life. It has its genesis in her real-life journey of balancing motherhood, business, and music while still pushing forward.

“I saw how many women are doing the same thing every day, often without recognition. I wanted to create something that celebrates that strength and independence. Working Girl is about women owning their grind, their voice, and their power,” Ikaya told The Gleaner.

Launched in tandem with the movement, was the Working Girl song, which officially dropped last Friday on all major digital platforms. The occasion was celebrated with an enjoyable live band showcase at the Elegance Banquet Hall in Connecticut. Ikaya, who produced the record herself under her own label, shared that “the moment was very personal and powerful”.

Reflecting on the year 2025, Ikaya said it was one of preparation and foundation building, with a lot of the work happening behind the scenes as she made a major step forward and established her own record label, 1 Soul Music Group, refined her sound, and aligned her vision.

Bubbling with enthusiasm, the singer stated clearly that the project represents growth and ownership for her and outlined that “2026 is about execution”.

“The release of Working Girl, the launch party, and expanding the brand are just the beginning. The focus is growth, ownership, and longevity,” the diva stated. This week, Ikaya is the featured guest for 5 Questions With ... .

1. What is the main objective of the Working Girl Movement?

The main objective is empowerment creating a movement that motivates and uplifts women through music and experience. The response to the concept and the announcement has been very strong. People are connecting to the message already, which tells me the movement is bigger than just the record.

2. You have made your voice heard when it comes to providing more opportunities for female artistes in reggae and dancehall. Have you seen any positive changes in the music industry landscape?

Because I’ve experienced firsthand how challenging it can be for women in this industry, I’ve always advocated for women to be treated fairly and given equal opportunities. I’ve spoken publicly and written about these issues, and I’ve also done my part through my work and the spaces I help create. In this industry, contributions can sometimes be overlooked or forgotten, especially when you’re not constantly in the spotlight or part of the hype. Still, I have seen positive changes, particularly with more female artistes coming forward and asserting themselves. Change takes time, but the growing confidence and visibility of women in the industry is encouraging.

3. How do you balance the soulful Ikaya with the singer who does hard-hitting songs such as ‘Bang Bang’ and’ Stalk Mi’?

That balance comes naturally because both sides reflect different parts of my lived experience. Life isn’t one-dimensional; there are moments of reflection and spirituality, and moments that require strength and boldness. My music mirrors that truth. Whether soulful or hard-hitting, it’s always honest, and I allow both to coexist.

4. You speak lovingly about the influence of your father, Bingy Blair, and your grandfather’s kette drumming. To what extent does this traditional roots anchor your modern sound?

Those influences are my foundation. Being exposed to that rhythm and cultural discipline from an early age shaped how I hear and feel music. Even when my sound is contemporary, those roots remain present in the energy, cadence, and intention behind what I create. They keep me connected to purpose and heritage.

5.You started the degree programme at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, but did not complete it. What advice would you give to young artistes who are just starting their careers?

While I didn’t get the opportunity to complete Edna Manley, my journey as an artiste was already rooted in who I am and where I come from. My advice to young Jamaican artistes is to remain disciplined, stay true to your identity, and never stop learning whether in a classroom or through lived experience. Understand the business side of music early, protect your work, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Your path doesn’t have to be traditional to be meaningful or successful.

BRAWTA

What would persons be surprised to know about Ikaya?

People may be surprised to know that I’m actually very shy and quite private. I honestly don’t enjoy social media, even though it has opened up opportunities and made certain aspects of the industry easier. I miss the days when music was simply about the art and the message. While the industry has changed, my heart has always remained focused on creating meaningful music rather than chasing attention.

yasmine.peru@gleanerjm.com