Rochelle Bradshaw’s debut album, Island Girl, is a soulful fusion of reggae, soul, and contemporary sounds that reflects her rich musical legacy and personal journey. Rochelle didn’t just step into music; she was born into it. She was born in Portland, Jamaica, and grew up surrounded by reggae legends—her father, Anthony Bradshaw, and uncle, Devon Bradshaw, were original members of the legendary reggae group Burning Spear. This reggae heritage is evident in every track of her album.

I’ve known Rochelle for about ten years, having met her while she toured with Stephen Marley. When I heard she was releasing her debut album, I was not only excited for my friend but also eager to hear her creations. While touring with Ragga, she formed an incredible background duo with Rica Newell, bringing captivating dance moves and beautiful singing to the stage., Rochelle developed her artistic foundation in her uncle’s recording studio in Norwich, Portland, Jamaica, where she honed her skills in harmony. This experience allowed her to record and tour with some of reggae’s biggest names, including Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Burning Spear, The Original Wailers, Chaka Demus & Pliers, and Luciano. All these experiences perfectly prepared her for her current role as a flawless professional in the music industry.

She posted on her Facebook page on the day her album was released:

“I have held this album in my heart for years. ISLAND GIRL is not just music; it embodies memory, grief, joy, bloodline, and healing. It represents my journey of finding my voice after a long silence. It is the sound of everything I’ve survived. I created this with my sister, Tamara Bradshaw, and our uncle, Devon Bradshaw, produced it. Together, we wove something sacred through sound. We recorded in Portland, Jamaica, where our ancestors rest, and in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where I have discovered who I am. This project began during a moment I can only describe as divine. One quiet night, after taking my Island Time gummies (created with @thesource.edu_), I suddenly tasted the ocean and was transported back to Jamaica in a flash of memory. That moment became the title track. Every lyric is a truth, and every melody carries something I couldn’t express aloud.”

The album opens with the inspiring track "It's What's Inside," which immediately sets the tone for its introspective mission with a powerful message about looking beyond surface appearances. At the end of the song, the production shifts, slowing down to create a haunting sound. In "Warriors," Rochelle explores vulnerability as a strength. The song features a slow, hard beat that gives it a reggae anthem feel, allowing Rochelle to deliver her powerful flow over the rhythm.

"Love So True" is a heartfelt declaration of deep, unique, and fulfilling love, set against a classic roots reggae riddim. The horns complement Rochelle’s flowing vocals perfectly. In the title track, "Island Girl," Rochelle delivers a powerful, conscious message with vocals that capture the metaphysical essence of island vibes. This fantastic roots reggae production invites you to slow down, absorb her message, and connect with yourself.

"Celestial Decree" has a vibe reminiscent of Bob Marley and the Wailers. It's a song about divine timing, expressing the belief that certain events and blessings in life are predestined and ordained by a higher power. Rochelle's subtle flow complements the theme beautifully.

Next, it’s time for Rochelle to slow things down with a sweet R&B-soul groove in "Turn It Around." This song resonates with me personally due to its empowering message of hope, resilience, and positive change.

Pushing the boundaries of the genre, "Take All The Time" has a distinctly different feel compared to the rest of the album, yet it fits in perfectly. This upbeat pop tune showcases her brilliant vocals. The repeated chorus—"Take all the time you want. Take all the time you need. Take it all before it's gone"—carries a powerful message about giving space and time to a loved one. It highlights the importance of understanding in relationships and the value of not rushing things.

Another standout track, "Ancestors Light," features her sister Tamara and boasts fantastic production. With a dancehall rhythm, the sisters sound wonderful in this celebration of their cultural legacy and heritage. The lyrics honor the history and influence of past generations, especially within the context of reggae music and culture, offering a beautiful shoutout to their parents. This song has been on repeat for me, and I can't help but groove to it.

Another song that resonates with me is "Let The Storm." It features a sweet, upbeat reggae rhythm, and Rochelle delivers her message perfectly. She conveys themes of finding strength, joy, and a sense of being alive, even in the face of challenges or turbulent times. This track truly highlights Rochelle’s beautiful voice.

In "Crucial High," Rochelle shares a message about marijuana and the experience of reaching an intense, transformative state of being. The beat keeps your head bobbing as Rochelle flows effortlessly over the keys:  "It's recreation medication meditation good vibration, Elevation. Used by all nations all where we came from.  So pass di kutchie wid di strong strong strong."

"Always RB" delivers another upbeat groove, showcasing one of the finest productions on the album. In this track, Rochelle shares a heartfelt message with a friend, assuring them of her enduring commitment and unwavering support in their friendship. The album concludes with "Island Girl Dub," making it a perfect ending to the journey Rochelle has taken us on. The smooth dub riddim allows us to relax and enjoy the ride out.

While Island Girl is a deeply personal project, it is also one that many can relate to and enjoy. The themes of strength in love, heritage, respect, transformation, living rightly, community, and consciousness resonate with everyone. Rochelle recently stated:  “Reggae music is about living right, treating your fellow humans with respect, and being a good person. It’s music with a positive message.”  She added: “It’s a completely different type of music to play and convey to people. It’s like soul music; it’s something you really have to feel.”  And feel it you do. "This project is my truth," says Bradshaw. "It’s a journey through reflection, love, and liberation—all on island time." In collaboration with her sister Tamara Bradshaw and her uncle Devon Bradshaw, Island Girl represents Rochelle’s artistic evolution and invites listeners to experience self-discovery, transformation, and mindful living rooted in the enduring spirit of Caribbean and island culture.

To my friend, I say, amazing job, Rochelle! You accomplished what you set out to achieve in a perfect way.

One Love – Todd M. Judd