OLDIES SUNDAY: Sister Carol – International Style (1983)

The month of March is recognized Internationally as “Women’s History Month“. In the Caribbean, many Women have made great strides, and they have contributed to shaping the future for generations to come. In Jamaica’s music scene, many Women stepped up and made a difference, and set the tone for other Artists to be inspired by. On today’s “Oldies Sunday“, we highlight a Woman who opened the doors for the ladies, and stood out among the crowds. Her name is Sister Carol, and we check out her track, “International Style“.

Produced by Delroy Wright, Hyman “Jah Life” Wright, and Percy Chin and released through the Jah Life/Live & Learn labels in 1983, Sister Carol had the people listening with “International Style”. This was the early days of Dancehall, and the advent of the Female Deejay was in its growing stages. Carol was one of the Artists who knew that she could hold her own among the Male-dominated scene, and gave listeners a display of a style that was locally known, and Internationally accepted. From Jamaican to American, from Trinidadian to Haitian, from Spanish to Swahili, Carol stepped out from the norm, and not only flexed her diversity, but educated the listener. “International Style” quickly became a hit, and was featured on her 1984 sophomore album, “Black Cinderella“.

Since the release of “International Style”, Sister Carol went on to release more music, and utilized her Degree in Education to teach the people inside, and outside of music. Carol is still active in music, and she sometimes join her daughter, Recording Artist Nakeeba Amaniyea, on a number of singles. In a time when Dancehall was Male-dominated, Sister Carol was one of the many ladies on the scene kicked down the doors to make way for the Female Deejay. “International Style” remains one of her most memorable singles.