Biography
Nadine Sutherland (born March 15, 1968) is a Jamaican singer who got her start in the music industry with the help of Bob Marley, a true icon in the world of reggae. She learned the ropes with his guidance and discovered her unique sound. As time went on, Nadine‘s exceptional talent and hard work propelled her to the top, establishing her as a true powerhouse in the world of music, especially in the 1990s when she became a sought-after dancehall artist.
Early Life & Education
Nadine Sutherland, a native of Kingston, Jamaica, grew up in the small community of Above Rocks, located in Saint Catherine Parish. From a young age, music was a significant part of her life, and in 1979, at the age of just 11, she took home first place in the Tastee Talent Contest, showcasing her undeniable talent to the world.
Despite her musical success, Nadine also had a strong academic background and pursued a degree in business administration while simultaneously building her career in the music industry.
It was none other than the legendary Bob Marley who recognized Nadine’s incredible potential and signed her as the first artist to his Tuff Gong label. At the tender age of eleven, Nadine recorded “Starvation on the Land,” which introduced this young and promising talent to the world of reggae.
Career
Many accomplishments and milestones have marked Nadine Sutherland‘s career. She started performing as a child and won the Tastee Talent Contest in 1979, with her parents managing her career. While pursuing a career in music, she also studied business administration.
Nadine was the first artist to be signed by Bob Marley to his Tuff Gong label, recording “Starvation on the Land” when she was only 11 years old. In the 1980s, she worked with Anthony “Sangie” Davis and Rita Marley, recording Christian reggae singles, but none gained significant commercial success.
After Bob Marley‘s passing, she performed at memorial concerts with several other legendary reggae artists, such as Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, the I Threes, and the Wailers.
Despite struggles as a solo artist, Nadine continued to work hard and eventually found success as a backing vocalist at Gussie Clarke’s Music Works and Donovan Germain’s Penthouse Studios.
Her career took a significant turn in 1993 when Germain produced her hit song “Action,” a duet with Terror Fabulous. The song became a campaign theme for the Jamaican Labour Party and was also included in Vibe’s list of the fifty greatest duets of all time.
In 2007, Nadine released the album “Call My Name,” a massive hit in Jamaica and on Florida and New York reggae charts. The album’s single “Big Tingz” was nominated for the Canadian Reggae Music awards in 2008. Nadine continued to make her mark on the music scene, even recording a particular version of “Action” for Kamala Harris during her vice-presidential campaign in 2020.
Aside from her music career, Nadine has also been involved in various other pursuits, including serving as a judge on the TV show Digicel Rising Stars, writing for the Jamaica Observer, and participating as a committee member for the charity Sisters to Sisters. Nadine’s hard work and dedication have made her a respected and versatile figure in the world of music and beyond.
Discography
- Starvation on the Land (1980)
- Hands and Heart (1986)
- A Young One Like Me (1987)
- Work and Pray (1987)
- Action (1993)
- Babyface (1994)
- What Am I Gonna Do (1997)
- I’m In Love (2003)
- Call My Name (2007)
- Big Tingz (2007
Personal Life
Nadine Sutherland has been relatively private about her personal life. However, it is known that she was born in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 15, 1968, and grew up in Above Rocks, Saint Catherine Parish. Her parents played a significant role in managing her career from an early age.
In her free time, Nadine enjoys reading and spending time with her family and friends. She has also been involved in various charitable causes over the years.
Nadine has a son named Dre, who has followed in his mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in music as well. There is currently no news about her husband yet, as she has kept it away from the spotlight.
Social Media
- Instagram @nadinesutherland
- Facebook @Nadine Sutherland
- Twitter @nadinesutherland
Net Worth
Nadine Sutherland has accumulated a considerable net worth or income, estimated to be between US$1 million – US$5 million, primarily due to her successful career as a musician.