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EARTH A
RUN RED ever since the world discovered the exceptional talent of Richie
Spice. His robust, commanding vocals coupled with solid lyrics, make
this 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
vibe. 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.
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 was 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 fanbase, 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 following all across Europe and North
America.
With the drive and commitment the professional outfit of Fifth Element
Records had in refining outstanding talent, it was inevitable that they
would soon draft Richie Spice into their camp. In 2003, Richie joined
stablemates DJ Chuck Fenda and singer Anthony Cruz to cement the trifold
Fifth Element camp.
CEO
OF fifth Element, Devon Wheatly, has nothing but accolades for the
Rastafarian singjay. “It is rare that you find someone with Richie’s
extraordinary talent, potent writing ability, humility and discipline.
With proper guidance and management, there is no limit to the vast
possibilities that awaits him, and the Fifth Element has every intention
to make it a reality,” states Wheatly.
On
the Fifth Element label Richie has already released the potent singles
‘Marijuana’ and ‘The Table is Turning Around’, and “Spice in Your Life”
The Powerful, highly acclaimed sophomore album.
‘Black Like Tar’ and ‘song after song from this album continue to ride
high on Radio Charts.
With
the world only too familiar with this sparkling star, Richie intends to
continue making music for his people and channeling it in a positive
direction for the youths of tomorrow to follow. |