Artiste Entertainment

Alison Hinds: On the Scene for Jamaica Carnival

allison hinds

Alison was born in East London and moved to Barbados where she was captivated by Reggae and Soca music. While living in Barbados, this painfully shy teenager met young calypsonian Anderson ‘Andy” Armstrong, stage named Young Blood, who persuaded her to enter the Richard Stoute teen talent contest in 1987, where she placed third in the finals.

After her performance in the Talent show, Andy made her a life-changing offer: to be a part of the Square One Band as the lead female vocalist. After moving through the hotel circuits, Square One was then able to navigate the Barbados club circuits, where Alison was able to hone her skills and break out of her shy persona and, WOW did she shine!

With Studio One band she recorded hits like “Ragga Muffin”, Kitty cat, Aye Aye Aye and Faluma. She has a track record that speaks for itself. With a woman this strong and vocal about her experiences, one would wonder what motivates her in life. Alison’s ultimate inspiration, to no surprise, is her mother, Marcilla Hinds, who has encouraged and supported her throughout her entire career imploring her to sing, perform and follow her dreams.

“My mom knew before even I did that success in music was in me. To be who I am today, she kept pushing and encouraging even when things got a lil’ difficult”

Another strong supporter is her husband who is there for their daughter along with the extended support system, allowing her to travel and perform while staying focused and leveled.

“With my husband, I can stay focus and stay level knowing that my daughter is taken care off”

Now In Jamaica for another Carnival season, Alison is excited after being away for 4 years. Looking forward to the revelling in Jamaica, she beams at the growth of carnival on the island over the years and is ecstatic about the resurgence of Jamaica Carnival.

“Carnival is all inclusive, it includes everybody, Carnival is about you, carnival is about me, it’s about all of us and with Jamaica Carnival gone for so many years, something was missing. I mean carnival is about our culture, our energy our music and I am happy to be a part of it this year”

Alison mentioned the fun and entertainment she had at the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and says she is absolutely looking forward to what Jamaica carnival has to offer this season.

 

To continue reading, purchase Vol.9 #1, 2017 Issue.