After Lila Ike shocked the dancehall/reggae community last year, Queen Ifrica speaks out about her conversation with her. Ifrica also spoke out about the importance of the gatekeepers within the industry.
Queen Ifrica, reggae warden, is always open to sharing her thoughts regardless of criticism or backlash. She spoke on the Xtra Fix podcast a few weeks back to discuss the misconceptions that many people have about her and other senior state men and women working in the music industry.
Ifrica stressed that, while some might feel their comments about young artists are a result of hatred or jealousy, they are actually the exact opposite. She explained that they were trying to provide guidance and be a sounding board for newcomers to the genre in most cases. They do this in the hope that they don’t get lost and have support as they navigate an industry that can be overwhelming and difficult if they aren’t careful or grounded.
Queen Ifrica revealed that Lila Ike, reggae singer, had approached her months ago and told her that God had promised her that she would help her find her place in the industry. This was good news for Ifrica. The young singer was then informed by Queen Ifrica that she had been blessed with the amazing responsibility of using her musical platform to inspire young girls.
She said, “What if I wanted it both way?” while reminiscing on her conversation with Lila Ike. I used her example to show people that we aren’t just concerned about the industry and are all industry players. It is impossible to have an industry without newcomers and expansion. However, you must also have gatekeepers or overseers. These are the people we looked up to as we were growing up. They were the ones we trusted and respected. We never attempted to change their ways. From dancehall to reggae, or any other genre of music, Queen Ifrica & Tony Rebel advised our fellow artists on how to succeed in this industry.
Queen Ifrica is actually Ventrice Morgan. She is the daughter Reggae legend Derrick Morgan. The 46-year old musician, who hails Montego Bay, said she doesn’t have a problem with any artist but felt the need to speak her truth. She said that she was on tour in 2020 and had time to speak to Chronixx over the phone for more than five hours. They discussed the importance of the project to Jamaica’s sustainability, as it was related to the preservation of the Cockpit Country’s sanctity.
Although not every artist will take her advice, you have to still reach out to them and attempt to build a bridge. If an artiste is able to be honest and open and tell the truth, reggae artiste elders won’t just criticize those who come after them but actually reach out. It’s about us being human, but for many it’s about what feels right at the moment. However, everything comes with a cost and we must account for our decisions.
Ifrica answered the question “Has Lila confided in me about my sexuality?” and stated that she would wait for Lila’s response before commenting further on the matter.
