Born Judith Veronica Mowatt (OD) in St. Andrew Jamaica, she has indeed had a remarkable career in the music industry, making significant contributions to reggae music. As a teen, Judy was a member of a dance troupe that travelled throughout the Caribbean. Her aspiration was to become a nurse and help others; nonetheless, she was in love with soul music. Her earliest musical influences were The Staple Singers, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Bob Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Dionne Warwick. She started her young career in 1967 as a member of the rock-steady trio The Gaylettes.  Joining the I-Threes in 1974 as the backing vocalists for Bob Marley & The Wailers, was a pivotal moment in her career and helped her gain recognition.  The trio consisting of Judy, Marcia & Rita, performed their first concert with Bob Marley as the opening act for the Jackson 5 in 1975. In 1978, Judy was the lead vocalist on “Many are called” single. Her “Black Woman album”, released in 1980, is particularly noteworthy for being considered one of the greatest reggae albums by a female artist. Notably, it was also the first reggae album recorded by a woman acting as her own producer. It was also the first full album recorded at Tuff Gong studio. Two years later she gave us “Only a woman”, an album where Mowatt sings and promotes feminine causes. She also lends her sensuous harmonies on albums for Peter Tosh, Freddie McGreggor, Jimmy Cliff, Big Youth and others.

Judy Mowatt’s achievements extend to being the first female singer nominated for a Grammy Award in the reggae music category, with her album “Working Wonders” receiving a nomination in 1985. As a member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, she had tremendous admiration for Bob Marley. Her spiritual journey is also intriguing, as she transitioned from being a member of the Rastafarian movement to converting to Christianity in the late 1990s. This shift in her beliefs influenced her music style, leading her to focus on Gospel music.

In recognition of her contributions to music, the Jamaican government honored Judy Mowatt in 1999 by making her an Officer of the Order of Distinction. It’s always fascinating to learn about the diverse paths and transformations artists undergo throughout their careers. Judy Mowatt’s journey reflects not only her musical talent but also her personal and spiritual growth. A career that spans over 50 years, she is one of the female giants in the industry. Transitioning to Gospel was easy for the much respected vocalist. Her “Something Old Something New” CD is a success in the gospel market. Judy is now a fulltime Christian artist who continues to tour.