Spice: The Queen of Dancehall

Grace Latoya Hamilton
Born: August 6, 1982 – St. Catherine, Jamaica
Active: 1999 – Present
Genres: Dancehall, Reggae, Reggaeton, Soca
Labels: VP Records, Stealth Music Group, Spice Official Ent.

Biography

Grace Latoya Hamilton, globally known as Spice, stands as one of the most dynamic and trailblazing figures in dancehall history. Often crowned the “Queen of Dancehall,” Spice has redefined the genre through her electrifying performances, unapologetic lyricism, and groundbreaking contributions to the visibility of women in Caribbean music culture.

Born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, and raised in the inner-city community of Portmore, Spice’s musical journey began in her church choir, where her vocal talents were first recognized. She later attended the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, where she honed her skills in drama and performance. From a young age, her passion for the stage and her commanding presence were unmistakable.

Spice entered the dancehall scene in the late 1990s, but her breakthrough came in 2004 with the hit single “Fight Over Man.” Her lyrical sharpness, commanding stage persona, and bold expressions quickly distinguished her in a male-dominated space. However, it was her 2009 collaboration with Vybz Kartel on “Romping Shop” that catapulted her into international stardom. The song, though controversial, became a dancehall classic and solidified her reputation as a cultural force.

Over the next decade, Spice would dominate the charts with hits such as “So Mi Like It,” “Needle Eye,” “Indicator,” “Cool It,” and “Sheet.” Her lyrical themes—ranging from female empowerment and body positivity to social commentary—made her both a dancehall heroine and a feminist icon for many.

Spice’s visual artistry also set her apart. Known for her colorful wigs, theatrical performances, and boundary-pushing music videos, she brought a new level of creativity and storytelling to the genre. Her stage shows, particularly at Jamaica’s annual Reggae Sumfest and Sting, became legendary, showcasing her unmatched stamina, choreography, and audience connection.

In 2018, after years of battling for recognition and industry independence, she released her mixtape “Captured”, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. It was a bold manifesto, addressing her struggles with record labels, colorism, and self-liberation. In 2021, she released her long-awaited debut studio album, “10,” executive produced by Shaggy. The album featured the Grammy-nominated single “Go Down Deh” with Shaggy and Sean Paul—a cultural milestone that united dancehall legends across generations.

Spice has also made waves beyond music. As a cast member of VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, she used the platform to discuss issues such as racism, representation, and the politics of beauty, further cementing her role as a voice for Caribbean women globally.

Despite health scares and industry challenges, Spice’s resilience and reinvention continue to inspire. Her journey from Portmore to the global stage reflects the enduring power of dancehall as both a cultural expression and a form of resistance.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Spice is more than a dancehall artist—she is a symbol of empowerment, perseverance, and Jamaican creativity. She challenged societal norms and defied industry expectations to claim her space in history. As one of the few female dancehall artists to achieve both mainstream and critical acclaim, her legacy is transformative.

Spice’s fearless embrace of identity, sexuality, and truth-telling continues to influence a new generation of artists, both in Jamaica and across the diaspora. Her music, fashion, and advocacy have made her an essential figure in the global story of reggae and dancehall.

Selected Discography

Romping Shop (feat. Vybz Kartel) – 2009
So Mi Like It – 2014
Indicator – 2016
Captured (Mixtape) – 2018
10 (Album) – 2021
Emancipated (EP) – 2022

Awards & Honors

Grammy Nominee – Best Reggae Album (2022)
MOBO Awards – Best Reggae Act Nominee
Multiple Youth View and International Reggae and World Music Awards
Reggae Sumfest Performer of the Year (multiple years)

Spice’s indelible imprint on the world of dancehall continues to grow. At the Reggae Museum, we honor her as a fearless artist, cultural ambassador, and Queen in her own right.

Curated by the Reggae Museum Archives Team
www.thereggaemuseum.com | Preserving the Legacy of Reggae Music