Spice Becomes First Female Jamaican Dancehall Artist to Go Platinum in Canada

Dancehall royalty, Spice, has cemented her reign with a groundbreaking achievement, becoming the first female Jamaican dancehall artist to earn a platinum certification in Canada with “Go Down Deh,” a collaboration with Dancehall superstars Shaggy and Sean Paul released as the lead single to her debut album “10” (VP Records). The song earned the Platinum Single certification on February 6, 2024, surpassing 80,000 units from singles sales and official streams in Canada.

This historic feat marks a significant milestone, not just for Spice herself, but for the entire dancehall genre, particularly for female artists who have long navigated a male-dominated industry.

This is Shaggy’s third Platinum certification in Canada, while Sean Paul’s has a total count of eight Platinum singles. “Go Down Deh,” released in April 2021, is produced by Constantin “Costi” Ioniță, and has over 198 million plays on Spotify and over 250 million views on YouTube.

Born Grace Hamilton in Clarendon, Jamaica, Spice's musical journey began young, fueled by a passion for dancehall's infectious rhythms and a determination to carve her own space. Her fiery lyrics, bold persona, and undeniable talent propelled her to local stardom, eventually catching the attention of international audiences. Hits like "Romping Shop," "So Mi Like It," and "Flen Flam" solidified her position as a force to be reckoned with, not just in dancehall, but across the wider reggae and Caribbean music scene.

Despite her undeniable talent, Spice's journey hasn't been without its challenges. The dancehall industry has historically been dominated by male artists, and female voices often faced marginalization and objectification. However, Spice never shied away from challenging these norms. Her lyrics championed female empowerment, addressed societal issues, and celebrated self-confidence, resonating deeply with a generation of women seeking their own voices.

This achievement is particularly significant given Canada's large and vibrant Caribbean community, highlighting the deep connection her music has with the diaspora. It also paves the way for other female dancehall artists, demonstrating the viability and importance of their voices in the industry.

Spice's impact extends far beyond chart-topping hits and record-breaking accolades. She has become a role model for young women, particularly in the Caribbean, inspiring them to embrace their individuality, pursue their dreams, and challenge societal expectations. Her music serves as a platform for social commentary, addressing issues like colorism, domestic violence, and gender inequality, sparking important conversations and advocating for change.

Spice's platinum certification is more than just a personal triumph; it's a symbol of progress and empowerment for the entire dancehall community, particularly for female artists. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all who dare to challenge the status quo and pave their own path. As she continues to reign supreme, one can only anticipate the further heights she will reach, inspiring and captivating audiences worldwide with her music and message