Empress Akua: A Tribute to Black Womanhood Through Reggae
Growing up in Watts, California, Empress Akua was surrounded by the echoes of history. This vibrant community, known for its pivotal role in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, instilled in her a deep appreciation for Black heroes. One such hero is Judy Mowatt, the renowned African-American roots-reggae singer whose song "Black Woman" has become an anthem of empowerment.
Empress Akua has taken Mowatt’s powerful message to heart. Recently, she released her own rendition of "Black Woman," produced by Redemption Sevenfold, a seasoned reggae band from California. “The producer and I decided to finally record the song since I’ve been singing it for so long,” she shared, highlighting her long-standing connection to the music.
A Journey to Jamaica
In May, Empress Akua traveled to Jamaica, where she paid homage to Mowatt by performing "Black Woman" at two shows in Kingston. The energy of the crowd and the spirit of the island made the experience unforgettable. “It felt like a celebration of our roots,” she said, her eyes lighting up at the memory. Mowatt herself caught wind of the performance through social media and sent a heartfelt message to Empress Akua, praising her rendition. “She loved the way I sang it, saying I performed it as if I was there when she recorded it. It is a really beautiful compliment,” Akua recalled, her voice filled with gratitude.
Roots in Watts
Born Sheila Washington, Empress Akua’s upbringing in Watts was steeped in the rich sounds of blues, soul, and Rhythm and Blues. However, her musical journey took a transformative turn when a group of Rastafarians visited her neighborhood during her teenage years. “That was my introduction to reggae and Jamaican culture,” she explained. The vibrant rhythms and messages of unity resonated deeply with her.
Over the years, she connected with Rasta elders, including the legendary Ras Michael, who lived in Southern California. These encounters enriched her understanding of reggae and its cultural significance. Empress Akua has since shared the stage with notable acts like Black Uhuru, Horace Andy, and Ky-Mani Marley, solidifying her place in the reggae scene.
Collaborations and Creativity
Her musical journey has also led her back to Jamaica, where she recorded songs with veteran guitarists Earl “Chinna” Smith and Dalton Browne, as well as singer-songwriter Sangie Davis during her 2019 visit. These collaborations have infused her music with authenticity and depth, allowing her to explore various themes and styles.
Back in Los Angeles, Empress Akua has teamed up with Jamaican producer Lloyd Shaw of Issachar Muzik. Together, they crafted songs like "It’s Cold Out There" and "Gwaan (Dutty Babylon)," which reflect her experiences and the struggles faced by her community.
A Voice for Change
Empress Akua’s music is more than just entertainment; it’s a voice for change. Her tribute to Judy Mowatt is a reminder of the importance of celebrating Black womanhood and resilience. As she continues to perform and create, one can’t help but wonder: what new stories and messages will she share next?
In a world that often overlooks the contributions of Black artists, Empress Akua stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all of the power of music to uplift and unite.
