There’s not much left of English poet Robert Southey left in Jah’Mila’s new single, “Sugar & Spice.” Known for having toured the world as a supporting vocalist with legendary acts such as The Wailers, Black Uhuru, Groundation, and Richie Spice, Jah’Mila finds more inspiration in the works of British-Jamaican artists like Carroll Thompson, Ken Boothe, Dennis Brown, and Marcia Griffiths than the 19th-century nursery rhyme.
Blissfully free of snips and snails and puppy dogs tails, “Sugar & Spice” is an upbeat and playfully romantic reggae tune concerning the travails of touring, the sacrifices of a musician on the road and a yearning to be home with the one they love after what seems to be a long stretch in the desert. At the heart of the song, perched atop a tasty little horn section, is an affectionate little nickname that occupies the chorus just as much as they hold a special place of honour in Jah’Mila’s life.
“I’m talking about my love,” says Jah’Mila. “I’m looking forward to seeing this person, spending time with them, and wanting to soak up all the sweetness of their presence and company.”
“Sugar & Spice” is the latest standalone single to be released in a series of previously released standalone singles from Jah’Mila. It follows in the wake of her politically charged, Black Lives Matter protest anthem “Chant Their Names” and “Roots Girl,” a matriarchal celebration of Jah’Mila’s native Kingston, Jamaica and homage to Israel Vibration’s 1995 song “Rude Boy Shufflin’.”
While there has been no news of any impending albums, Jah’Mila has been busy; recently performing as part of the East Coast Music Association’s annual Conference, Festival and Awards Show with a special tribute to honour Rita MacNeil as she was inducted into the Canadian Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.