Jamaican Model Turned Artist Sandra Rose Talks Debut Track, How Spice And Etana’s Music Inspired Her And More

Jamaican model turned-artist Sandra Rose is looking to find her footing in Dancehall with her debut single, Whiplash, and its accompanying music video.

Produced by Smokeshop, the single’s official audio was released on January 8, while the video is set for release on January 18.

“I began modeling at 16 with Vogue Models & Talent Management, inspired by my mother, who was also a model. As a mommy’s girl, you tend to want to follow your mother’s precise foot steps,” the Discovery Bay, St. Ann native told DancehallMag. “I’ve always had a great love for music, as I’ve been writing since I was 9-years-old. I’ve now decided to start doing what I truly love and that is music. I’ve shifted my focus entirely to music and aspire to be the next addition to the Dancehall scene.”

Adding that the risqué track is from personal experiences, Rose said she hopes to make a good first impression to her audience as a break-out artist.

“My aspirations for my debut song include resonating with listeners, making a memorable impact, and establishing a foundation for the unique sound I aim to bring to the music scene,” she said.

Rose, who did not have the easiest upbringing, said she found encouragement in music and cites Reggae songstress Etana and Queen of Dancehall Spice as inspirations.

“I grew up without my dad as he was incarcerated when I was just four, leaving my mother [at] 21 with three kids. My mother made sure we had everything that we needed but, of course, being so young with three kids and doing it with no help takes a toll on you,” she shared. 

“I played a role in raising my younger sisters, and in 2012, we were sent to Canada to live with other family permanently. Due to unsatisfactory living conditions, we ended up in foster care. Separated from my sisters, I found solace in the songs of Etana during that challenging time,” Rose added.

And as for Spice, the emerging artist said she embodies exemplary talent and strength. 

“She is the baddest in the game. I love her musical talent. She is such a talented artist. I’ve been listening to Spice since I was a child. She is a big influence in Dancehall [and] she carries Dancehall like a queen she is.”

She further noted that her focus has fully shifted to moulding a music career where she hopes to add a unique flair to the island’s diverse artists.

“I wanna highlight the beauty and uniqueness of all my Jamaican girls. My aspirations for my career include reaching a broad audience with my music, making a positive impact through my art, and establishing a lasting legacy in the industry. I aim to evolve as an artist, continuously pushing creative boundaries and contributing to the cultural landscape. Ultimately, I hope to inspire and connect with people on a profound level through my musical journey,” said Rose, who enjoys hiking, snowboarding, and riding her motorcycle when she’s not in the studio.

While some critics might turn their noses up at Dancehall’s new direction, Rose believes that experimentation with different genres by Jamaican artists is good for reaching wider audiences.

“Modern Dancehall has undergone fascinating transformations over the years. The genre has embraced diverse influences, incorporating elements of hip hop, electronic music, and global rhythms. This evolution has brought a dynamic and eclectic flavor to dancehall, expanding its reach and resonating with a broader audience, while staying true to its Jamaican roots.”