Joby Jay lands two JIMA nominations - Queen of Dancehall Spice also secures multiple nods

Fast-rising recording artiste Joby Jay is a top nominee for the second Jamaica International Music Awards (JIMA).

She received two nomination: Song of the Year for her single titled Cool Breeze and Best New Reggae-Dancehall Artiste. She is the only female contending for the latter.

"I'm flattered to know I'm among the names of other artistes who are also doing good work and grateful to know people are enjoying my music," Joby Jay told THE STAR.

Shaneil Muir won the Best New Reggae-Dancehall Artiste award at the awards inaugural staging. Spice also secured multiple nominations after walking away with the most awards for Best Female Reggae/Dancehall Album ( 10) and Song of the Year ( Go Down Deh) last year. Meanwhile, 450, Jahshii, and Rygin King are trailing in the nomination count.

Speaking about the attention female artistes have been garnering over the past five years, the Big Girl Ting singer and songwriter said that it has been improving, "but I still think we have a long way to go."

Joby Jay, given name Jo Benee Morris, received the VM Wealth Breakthrough Artiste of the Year at the JaRIA Honour Awards last April. She stressed that Jamaica's female acts continue to prove that they are just as talented and capable as the men and are dominating more platforms that seek to highlight and honour their contribution to the reggae and dancehall culture.

"I've done my best to make it very clear from the start of my career that I'm all for girl power and woman empowerment, (so) I'll continue to do what I've been doing and trust that young girls will continue to be inspired and encouraged by what my music and what I stand for. I also think by having more women in different business positions in the industry will also help to give more light and push to more of that needed girl power," Joby Jay said.

The JIMA show is scheduled for February 28 at the Nobhill Hall in Sunrise, Florida, and Joby Jay has already expressed an interest in attending the event in person. She is also urging others to support the platform and the nominees by voting. The voting opened on January 1 and closes on February 15 on the JIMA website, www.jimaawards.com.

"I'm learning to trust the process a lot more. I no longer attach myself to a certain outcome or timeline. I'm more confident in my abilities and what I bring to the table. I'm getting more comfortable with being myself on stage," she said.

"With Cool Breeze, I've seen where persons particularly enjoy when I perform the relaxing melodies. I think with time, the song will continue to attract new fans. I also think the song has great usability, so I'm hoping some brands will want to use the track," Joby Jay continued.

The JIMA was conceptualised by the Caribbean Urban Media Group as a vehicle to showcase Jamaican music and its creators that allows the people to make the choice.