Jalifa has emerged in recent years with a strong and fearless voice. Her powerful delivery, artful flow, and carefully crafted lyrics distinguishes her among the women who are blazing music forward in the twenty-first century. Jalifa's music is not just about entertainment; it's a statement. Her fearless voice tackles social issues and challenges the status quo. With her thought-provoking lyrics and powerful messages, she captivates audiences around the world.
Jalifa's musical voyage as a performing artist opened up a world of opportunities, leading her to astounding highs. Her first stage appearance was indeed special when she was given the privilege to open for the legendary Iconic Reggae artist Sizzla Kalonji and The Mighty Black Starlin at the One Voice Concert in 2010. Alongside her brother Adiel Alexis, infamously known as Abba Shanty, There! They showcased to their country, and the world, what they were capable of.
This memorable concert was just the beginning of Jalifa's journey. From then on, she continued to grace the stage with strikingly talented icons such as Wayne Wonder, Steel Pulse, and Jah Cure, Terry Ganzie, Junior Kelly, and Fanton Mojah. She even had the honor of opening for prestigious Legends such as Kiddis I, Lee Scratch Perry, Bush Man, I Wayne, Andrew Tosh, and No Madz at the esteemed 12th Annual Stepping High Ganja Festival held in Negril, Jamaica, in 2015. A Festival that embraces cannabis, "Ganja," and diverse international creatives. Honoring Roots Reggae, while seeking the interest in shaping the future for the unlawful mystical plant.
Jalifa headlined along with well-known New Roots artist, Jessy Royal, at the Dubwise Trinidad in June 2022, backed by the incomparable "Dubwise" Jason Panton.
The Kings Of The Earth Concert 2022 was another remarkable milestone where Jalifa shared the stage with esteemed artists like T&T Reggae Ambassador Queen Omega, Sizzla Kalonji, Capleton, Louie Culture, and Coaco Tea.
"Having the privilege to perform with these legends in the industry has played an instrumental role in shaping my unique performing style". ~Jalifa~
Jalifa's talent, and performance caught even the attention of Bobby Digital-B Records. After witnessing her captivating performance at an event in Trinidad, he recognized her potential and wasted no time collaborating with her. Bobby Digital invited Jalifa to lend her vocals to a riddim called the Rose Mary Riddim that he meticulously crafted, showcasing the voices of Jamaica's Assassin, Tarrus Riley, and Collis Duranty out of Trinidad and Tobago. Showing his belief in her immense talent.
"Given the gift of collaborating and learning from the iconic legend, Bobby Digital, The resonance of this interaction is etched in a song that we jointly crafted but could not debut. Although this melody didn't shine on the EP, I cherish this golden opportunity and pledge to keep the recorded vocals alive. I am hopeful and thrilled about the idea of rekindling this piece alongside Bobby's son, Jiark". ~Jalifa~
Jalifa is experienced in collaborating with an array of labels. Jalifa is a prominent name in the realm of music. Having firmly established her musical journey with her debut single, 'When I Chant' from the 'Blessings Flow' album, she has successfully built an intriguing catalog.
This first stroke was painted with the skillful brush of Richard "Charlice" Marine at the House Of Music Enterprise.
Further embracing diverse collaborations, she released her second single, 'InI Dread' on the 'Mankind Riddim EP' with Ras Jammy Suns Of Dub, and French producer Gian Luigi (Mira Flowers) of Serengeti Records. D.O.V.E Muzic plunged her into another successful endeavor with 'Unite Feat. Reddy' on the 'Chimurenga Riddim', marking a solid presence in Chicago's music scene.
Continued success followed with back-to-back hits 'Why Worry', and 'Wat A War' by Blue Lava Ent, and 'Born Ready' on the Dread Riddim Lion Twins Studio. Her brilliant delivery on 'Ibration' on the Inner Terrestrial Riddim stands testament to her versatility, a tour de force produced by De Rebel Production at Kin Sound Studio in Trinidad and Tobago.
Her latest noteworthy releases include 'Fake To Break', 'Honorebel', and 'Wise Queens'. These tracks showcase a perfect collaboration with Queen Omega, and Kushite, produced by Lions Flow out of Switzerlannd, and Majestic868 from Trinidad and Tobago.
Throughout her journey, Jalifa has fostered numerous collaborations with international labels, and boasts a treasure trove of unreleased music. Prior to the enormous success of 'Wise Queens', Jalifa had made considerable strides in the industry, making her a formidable musical force to reckon with.
Jalifa is well-known for co-developing a four-track extended play (EP) in partnership with the eminent Bass artist and Producer, Jah David Goldfine, who holds a significant presence in the globally recognized Vourghn Benjamin Akea Beka Band, and renown Dub Master Tippy High Grade Dub.
"Collaborating with ZHP and ZIK. It was a synergy of artistic skills combined. Hence, the birth of a singular and distinctive masterpiece. This piece comprises four Dub Counterpart melodies corresponding to each original track in the 'Incient Ras' EP, which was officially launched on April 1st, 2022. Jalifa’s mission extends beyond the boundaries of music, as it encompasses a spiritual quest and an unwavering dedication to HIM.
Born Kalifa Nataki Alexis was born on December 26th, 1990, hailing from Port of Spain, Trinidad, and Tobago.As the offspring of the honorable Priest Ekechi and Empress Adama, Jalifa is deeply rooted in her Rastafarian heritage, which endlessly inspires her music and art.Her love for music sparked when Jalifa was just seven.
"Guided by the rhythmic tones of my father, a former DJ, and the inspiring chants of my elder brothers, these were my very first inspirations.
My other inspirations came from artists like; Isreal Vibration, Sizzla Kalonji, Turbulence and Sister Nancy's' Bam Bam was my favorite song to sing. I also admire artists like Sister Carol, Lauren Hill, and Eminem, among many others.
These are the types of Artists and music I was exposed to growing up," Jalifa said.
"For me, music is not just a passion, but a language that breaks boundaries and brings hearts together; it's used as a vehicle that not only takes us places but also a vehicle to help spread Good vibes, and Positive messages in all aspects." ~ Jalifa ~
From a grace-filled stage presence to heart-throbbing lyrics, to the energetic beats of reggae, Jalifa's art is a harmonious blend of the spiritual and physical.
Jalifa discovered her unique voice and started a soulful journey that continues to charm music lovers worldwide.
Her upbringing, dedication, and passion have etched themselves into her craft, shaping her musical legacy.
Woven together in intricate threads of melody, lyrics, and emotion, Jalifa's artistry doesn't stop at audio; each release is accompanied by visually stunning music videos for a truly captivating experience complementing her powerful music.
Making the journey with her enchanting and indelible music all the more captivating and immersive.
