Jamaican songstress AnnaleaX releases her debut album, “Alter Ego Vol.1,” on May 10, 2024, with cover of Bob Marley’s ‘Three Little Birds’ under the banner of SoBe Entertainment.
Marley‘s timeless classic “Three Little Birds,” appears on the album aptly renamed “Don’t Worry (Three Little Birds),” featuring YNIQ and Urban Mystic with the blessing of the Marley Estate. The Kingston singer expresses gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging the profound impact such collaborations can have on an artist’s journey.
Sharing insights into her creative process, AnnaleaX, 27, reflects on the serendipitous alignment of events leading up to her signing with SoBe Entertainment. “Before joining the label, I had a moment where everything seemed to fall into place,” she reminisces. “Wearing a shirt emblazoned with ‘everything is gonna be alright’ on the eve of Bob Marley’s birthday felt like a sign—a reassurance that I was on the right path.”
This 12-track set which features production from Scott Storch and Vinny Venditto showcases a diverse range of musical sounds, including the infectious dancehall single “Bumba,” written by Yanique Barker taking its name from the iconic Grace Jones hit “Pull Up To The Bumper Baby.”
Reflecting on the album’s creation, AnnaleaX recalls moments in the studio where Grace Jones served as a source of inspiration. “I remember Grace Jones being mentioned several times during our studio sessions,” she reveals.
Despite the album’s completion three years ago, its release was delayed until now, amidst the global pandemic—
With a promising future ahead, AnnaleaX reveals plans for her sophomore album, hinting at a shift towards a pop-centric sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa, and John Legend, she aims to captivate audiences with her infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Among the other standout tracks on “Alter Ego Vol.1” is the poignant “Blood On My Hands,” penned during a tumultuous period in AnnaleaX’s life. Exploring themes of forgiveness and redemption, the track serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding.
“Blood On My Hands” is a special track. Wrote it at a very emotional time in my life. Its a reminder that we shouldn’t judge people because everyone makes mistakes and we should learn to forgive people and not be so judgey,” AnnaleaX says.
Another noteworthy inclusion is “Deal With The Devil,” a bold expression of personal truths and experiences. Contrary to its provocative title, the song delves into the complexities of human relationships, urging listeners to embrace authenticity and self-expression.
“I come to a point where I understand that music is an expression and people can choose to be open to what they want, this is how I feel and I just expressing how I feel, If you listen to the song, you’ll see that the track has nothing to with worshiping the devil, its the complete opposite, she said. Adding, “Its about people in your life, who are good for you.”
