Mowatt"I WANT to be remembered as someone who made a contribution to the lives and needs of people through music," said veteran singer Judy Mowatt.
Judith 'Judy' Mowatt has been performing for almost 40 years. She first came to prominence as a singer in the popular girl group The Gaylettes in the 1960s. In the 1970s she was placed in another stratosphere as one of the I-Threes, who sang back-up for Bob Marley.
In 1985 her Working Wonders album earned her the bragging rights of being the first female solo reggae singer to be nominated for a Grammy Award. The same album also earned her an NAACP Image nomination for 'Best Female Artiste.'
ANOTHER AWARD
On August 6, 2003 she added another award to her credit. She was among eight members of the Jamaican entertainment fraternity who were given the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence.
Mowatt says that the award now holds a special place in her heart. "I have been awarded several times from overseas. But, when you receive an award from home, from your people and the Prime Minister nonetheless, that is extra special," she said.
The veteran singer continued her description of the emotions felt. "I feel very humbled, I feel fulfilled and I am also very grateful," she said. However, Mowatt, who became a Christian several years ago, says that as pleased as she is with the award, she cannot take it with her into the next life. "I have learnt one thing and I am glad that God has chosen me. But, all of these accolades and credits are for here. They are for this life."
GIVING BACK
One thing which Mowatt has been thinking off doing while continuing her life here is 'giving back'. She will be doing this when she stages her annual 'Youth Summer Splash'. "The concept for the show started in 2000, when I saw the need for highlighting the talent of young people."
The event, which will be hosted on the grounds of the Jamaica 4H Club at the end of the month, will feature performances from several of the island's popular gospel acts, including Robert and Jenieve Bailey and Kevin Downswell, the winner of the 2003 Festival Gospel contest. It will also feature the 'Reggae Boyz' as special guests and the talent of young performers. Mowatt believes that "there are some really talented young people out there, but we are not doing enough to expose them."
Part proceeds of the event will be donated to several charities. "To whom much is given much is required the Bible says and there are those among us with several needs and that is what this event will be trying to do."
Among the charities who will be receiving funds are 'Mary's Child', a home for pregnant teenagers and the Bible Teacher's International Back to School Outreach Programme.
Mowatt said she chose 'Mary's Child' because she saw their needs. "I went and I fellowshipped with the girls and I am really glad to know that there is a home where girls who have been turned away by their families can find help, support and love. They are trying to expand and we are going to help them as much as possible."
Now Mowatt, says she feels "blessed and in the presence of God."
