Real Jamaican girl

Stephanie Lyew, Gleaner Writer

You m ay know Danielle 'D.I.' Isaacs for tracks such as her dancehall version of a schoolyard favourite, Brown Girl in the Ring, featuring Beenie Man, Turn Him On with Ce'Cile, Downtown Man, and the single that piloted her career, a raunchy lyrical and upbeat song called Beat It.

Now Danielle is working on a few projects to anchor her position in the entertainment industry. She told Saturday Life that her re-emergence should not be confused with the term comeback - it is a rebirth.

Her past challenges, she said, were due to "the judgement" from the public who expected her lyrics to match her appearance - soft and reserved. Despite what she calls misinterpretations, Danielle said she is an outspoken Jamaican girl to the core.

One of the less popular tracks, Bright Lights, slated to be on the pending self-titled album, has already received more than 3,000 listens on MySpace.

Danielle responds, surprised: "Really! That's great! It was actually pre-released but three months from now it will be re-released. It's a song females can relate to because at least once in a female's lifetime we experience heartbreak."

Did you write the song from a personal experience and do you write all your songs?

No. This single was written by Duane Stephenson, Kumar, Black Pearl and myself, but I am actively involved in the organisation of the lyrics. I mainly take a co-writer role. This song is more of a song I can relate to.

MySpace now has the option for individuals to buy music online. What has that feedback been like?

Well, my public-relations team and myself receive requests now and then for photos and music that persons may want to purchase, so we are currently working on a shop online system to cross-sell photos, music, etc., because Danielle is not just a name, it is a brand.

Did you always know this was the career path you wanted to take?

I graduated (never went to sixth form) instead, moved to Miami to study nursing at Miami Dade College, but left when I had a little over a year to complete. I was also taking courses in theatre while attending school, so I decided to pursue entertainment.

You've been on hiatus for a couple of years. Why?

My inconsistency was due to my battle with 'personal life'. I was back and forth from London trying to deal with everything.

But 'personal life' shouldn't be a reason to put a hold your career ... ?

(Smiles) At the time, I realised I was missing out on a lot and putting hold on things that affected me and how I handled my work situation. It was time to recollect and decide what I really wanted. I must say I have matured.

What about 2010? It seems people used this year to 'come back' and change their image. What has it been like for you?

I have been working with Sly and Robbie, who have taken the time to really delve into my album and my image. I have been (doing) intense vocal training, going to the gym twice a day to do a lot of cardio and weight training with a personal trainer and I'm on the Beyoncé diet (laughs).

The Beyoncé diet? What's that all about?

I really am trying to be at a weight where I am comfortable, so I am trying the maple syrup, cayenne pepper and lime mixed with water.

Back to London: was it all about dealing with personal matters. What about recreation? Where is your favourite hang-out spot in London?

I'm usually on the West End, I am a homebody. Or chill with my best friend in Catford. I guess like events that I may have missed; I will always try to pick up on it the next year.

And in Jamaica, what's your favourite thing to do?

I love going to Harbour View to have oysters and conch (confessing there the night before her interview and that it trespassed on her diet).

You're known to be one of the ladies with drama surrounding her at the premature years of your career. What's your approach now?

I am calmer, so if the other female artistes are willing to work with me, I am receptive to keeping a good musical relationship.

Being outspoken you've used 'abrasive' lyrics to get your point across. How are the album and the single 'Jamaican Girl' akin to previous singles?

That was just my style. I like to shock people but it's about being versatile. At the end of the day, it's whatever you think is you. The single speaks to all Jamaican women and is picking up steadily and receiving good feedback digitally because of its difference.

Are there any other producers you wish to work with?

I am open to working with producers that see potential in me and are willing to listen to what I have to bring to the music industry.

Tell us about 'Antoinedia'.

Antoinedia is a clothing line collaborated by myself and my designer Paul Anthony, who is now in New York looking at fabrics for upcoming style seasons. The line is a funky-fresh meets European chic, casual glam wear for daytime and night-time. It was inspired by my love of fashion; being in Europe and seeing the type of fashion that people are drawn to.

Is it also a bit of your personal style?

I would say so.

Where is your favourite place to shop in Europe or your favourite designer?

I love to spoil myself to a piece by Robert Cavalli, but if I would have to choose something more affordable to wear every day, I'd say River Island or Top Shop.

Having done acting classes at Miami Dade, do you plan to go back to acting?

Yes. I am actually working on a local television programme for late night with Andrea Thames.

What does D.I.'s calendar look like for the next couple of months?

I have shows overseas in September. I am going to New York, and in December, Curaçao and Munich (Germany). Next week is the video shoot for Jamaican Girl and, hopefully, in several months the album will be complete.