RICHIE SPICE
Photo by Lee Abel ©2005
EARTH A RUN RED ever since the world discovered the exceptional talent of Richie
Spice. His robust, commanding vocal couples with this solid lyrics, make his sing-jay
stand out in an industry that produces artistes a dime a dozen.
With an unmistakably distinct style, Richie Spice merges singing and deejaying
into a unique art form, being able to define two art formats quite clearly, alternately
singing or deejaying on his signature tracks.
This talented, versatile songwriter always seems to balance his creations with a dancehall
flavour coupled with a defined reggae edge. But whether deejaying or singing, his genre of
choice is dancehall with a rootsy vibes. His lyrics often speak of love or oppression,
relating to everyday runnings, the plight of his people and the Rastafarian faith, which
he strongly embraces. It is striking that his youth seemingly effortless can capture the
kind of tone and vibe that fits the mood of a song perfectly.
Eclectic and entertaining, Richie Spice has all the tools to match or even eclipse the
musical accomplishments of his well-renowned brothers.
RICHELL BONNER aka RICHIE SPICE was
born in Rock Hall, St. Andrew. Jamaica on September 8,1971 into the talented Bonner
family. With mother and father who were known singers in the community, it was no surprise
that they would produce four sons that would one day become household names.
|
Indeed, mankind would soon make the acquaintances of the Bonner boys –
singers Pliers (from Chaka Demus and Pliers), Spanner Banner, Richie Spice and dancehall
DJ Snatcher Dogg.
Deciding it was time his younger brother takes his place among Jamaica’s greatest
singers, Spanner Banner, who already making a name for himself, took Richie on the studio
rounds and introduced him to some top producers.
This led to Spice’s first track ‘Killing a Sound’, produced by
Dennis ‘Star’ Hayes, followed by ‘Shine’ for producer\musician Clive
Hunt.
His equally talented sister Brigett Bonner, along with Clive Hunt were instrumental in the
release of Richie’s debut album ‘Universal’. This gave birth to his first
major hit, ‘Grooving My Girl’, along with his other hits ‘Earth A Run
Red’, ‘Living Ain’t Easy’ featuring Snatcher Dogg, ‘Land of
Jamaica’ and ‘Time So Rough’. Heartbeat Records was very influential in
gaining international exposure for the album. With an increasing popularity and demanding fanfare,
Richie would soon become a staple on all the major stage shows, locally and
internationally. Soon, the stages of Reggae Sunsplash, Reggae Sumfest, Rebel Salute, White
River Reggae Bash and Sting, among others, were familiar grounds, with the singer
delivering outstanding performances.
Spice often joined his brothers
Pliers and Spanner Banner on numerous tours, building his global fanfare all across Europe
and North America.
Richie Spice joined
the Fifth Element camp with stablemates DJ Chuck Fenda and singer Anthony Cruz.
In 2004, “Earth A Run Red” was resurrected into one of
the biggest hits of the year, and Richie
Spice has been turning heads ever
since.
Richie Spice Links:
|
