Alaine ‘Pile Up’ her blessings on Bolt’s new album

Blessed with an angelic voice and a burst of energy, reggae songbird Alaine said "it's a big deal" sharing her talent and "blessings" with the world through her track, Pile Up, on the recently released Sweet 7 Riddim album by Usain Bolt.

Bolt told THE STAR that Alaine is a "soulful" singer, who he always desires to work with, and opined that the album was the perfect opportunity for her to express her innate gift, as she "fits in naturally" with the project's "sweet reggae" sound.

"That's a big compliment," said Alaine in response. "I loved the rhythm the moment I heard it. I'm always excited to write new songs that make people feel good feelings. So I set that intention, and the melody and lyrics flowed," Alaine told THE STAR. She stated that working with her colleagues and Bolt on this project "is a big deal, [and] I respect and admire all the artistes on the juggling".

"With jugglings, it's always a vibe to see how each of us approach the same riddim differently. Usain is a history maker who operates from a place of no limits on what he and his team can achieve," she stressed.

Sweet 7 Riddim was released last Friday, and marked Bolt's seventh studio album since his crossover into the music industry. The album is infused with a mix of diverse topics and messages which speaks to various aspects of life through a soulful reggae beat. However, Pile Up was written from a place of personal reflection and appreciation to God.

" Pile Up is about counting your blessings and learning from your past, seeing the good and the bad, but focusing on the good while expecting better to come. It's really full of lessons that I have learnt over the years. It's about forgiveness, trusting God and expecting brighter days," shared Alaine.

"The response to the song so far has been overwhelming. I've seen people commenting that it's their new favourite song. It's such a blessing to be able to create songs that can put people in a grateful mood," she added.

Despite the current music pace and musical trends, the No Ordinary Love singer believes the style, sound and blend of authentic reggae music on the album are in perfect timing to remind the new generation of artistes and the world of the "sweet reggae" music Jamaica is known to produce.

"Reggae music will always be medicinal. Every time a reggae project like this is released from Jamaica, something beautiful goes out into the world, from us, by us. The impact of reggae worldwide is undeniable. We bring messages of love, hope, overcoming or celebrating life. This sweet reggae will always find a way to soothe your soul or make you feel something deeply. Respect is due," she stated.

As Alaine looks to continue blessing others through her music, she is promoting her other inspirational song, One of One, which was produced by Troyton Music.

"It's about recognising that each of us is special. I got goose pimples writing it because humility is so important, but so is confidence in our uniqueness. It's all about celebrating the greatness within while never looking down on anyone else," Alaine said.

The songbird said she has upcoming shows in Dominica, New York, Belize and Europe and is excited for the imminent auditions for the 20th season of Digicel Rising Stars.

"I'm working on a lot of new music. This year is definitely a year where the blessing dem a 'pile up' and I am so very grateful," she added.