In the vibrant landscape of Canadian reggae music, one name continues to stand out: Tonya P. With her latest single, ‘Free,’ featured on the ‘Heart of Love’ riddim compilation by Janhi Records, Tonya P cements her status as one of the country’s most remarkable female artists. This captivating release is not only a treat for dedicated reggae enthusiasts but also a potential contender for another JUNO nomination, further solidifying her impressive musical journey.
Hailing from Canada, Tonya P’s entry into the music scene was nothing short of auspicious. Introduced to the industry at a mere 14 years old, her unique advantage as the daughter of renowned promoter “Clive Kubba Pringle” opened doors that most aspiring young artists can only dream of. A pivotal moment arrived at 19 when she graced the stage in Jamaica, sharing the spotlight with the King of Dance Hall himself, Beenie Man. This defining performance ignited Tonya P’s unwavering passion for reggae music, a spark that would shape her journey.
Returning to her Canadian roots, Tonya P embarked on a path of local performances, tirelessly honing her craft and refining her songwriting skills. The turning point came in 2005 when she collaborated with local producer Radford Ettienne (Dr Rad) for her debut original track, ‘With Me.’ The song’s undeniable appeal quickly dominated the airwaves, establishing Tonya P as a force to be reckoned with in Toronto’s reggae scene.
This dynamic collaboration continued to flourish, producing a string of hits that etched Tonya P’s name among the most recognized and decorated female reggae artists in the city. In 2007, her efforts were recognized with the Canadian Reggae Music Award for ‘Top Female Newcomer,’ an acknowledgment of her rising prominence. Her dedication and hard work eventually led to a prestigious Juno Nomination for ‘Reggae Recording of The Year,’ a testament to her growing impact on the national music stage.
As Tonya P’s star continued to ascend, she showcased her talents at the JunoFest URBFresh Urban Music Showcase, hosted at Toronto’s iconic Hard Rock Cafe. This performance, organized by The Urban Music Association of Canada, CARAS, and the Juno Award Urban Music Committees, underscored her significance within the Canadian music industry.
With her latest single ‘Free’ riding high on the ‘Heart of Love’ riddim, Tonya P once again captures the essence of reggae’s soulful rhythm and poignant lyricism. As listeners are drawn into her evocative sound, it’s clear that Tonya P’s journey is far from over. Her unwavering passion and unyielding commitment to her craft continue to inspire both new and seasoned artists, making her a true reggae sensation and a pride of Canada’s musical landscape.