STACIOUS. we need to see more positive things coming out of dancehall

"I'm a shoeaholic," she confesses, giggling. "I'm not really into brands. Anything that looks good and is comfortable, that's me."

As it turns out, shoes are among what Stacious considers her passions, falling somewhere on the long list that includes God, music, travel, fashion and men of the 'rudeboy' variety. And that's precisely why the widely circulating talk about her regularly "hanging out" with the ultimate dancehall hustler, David 'Mavado' Brooks, is so hard to play down. But, surprise, surprise, the gossip is only partly true. And Stacious will not hesitate to let you know this.

These days, it comes as no surprise that her name regularly pops up in the local gossip columns and everywhere else that the latest 'suss' is being shared. After all, the 25-year-old is a woman on fire, intent on making musical magic for her growing fanbase and earning the stamp of approval of the veterans and even her contemporaries in the biz.

A St Hugh's High alum and a trained travel expert, Stacious (sometimes described as a t****oy with tattoos and piercings) strongly believes good things happen when one taps into their innate abilities. Splash recently wasted no time in getting the lowdown from her about music, men and making money.

Splash: Everyone has been talking about your latest single Falling Down, which is steadily climbing the dancehall charts. What led you to record such a provocative anthem?
Stacious: When I first heard the rhythm at the studio, I immediately knew I wanted to record a story and the producer also told me not to do anything with any violent lyrics. So I'm glad that such a song goes across the board because a lot of people in society, both men and women, do not properly take care of their riches and end up 'pop dung'. So it's sending out a message to everyone.

Splash: Definitely. How do you feel about your music career as it is right now?
Stacious: I think things can always be better, but for the time being, I am comfortable. I like the progress and the growth I am making.

Splash: I see a lot of female artistes sticking together these days but, on the real, do you have 'beef' with any other female artiste?
Stacious: I wouldn't say I have 'beef' with anyone, but last year people were saying that I have issues with Macka Diamond but I cleared that up. In my little circle [Tifa, Natalie Storm, Timberlee, D'Angel] we all get along. Everybody I rap with as female artistes get along. We each have our own little side of the dancehall. So we don't have a problem.

Splash: What's your relationship like with Danielle?
Stacious: (Pause) We're not enemies, but we're not friends.

Splash: Since we're on the subject of females and girlfriends, are you excited about the arrival of the long-awaited Sex and The City movie?
Stacious: Of course (Laughs). I definitely want to see it because you know those girls are always up to their antics. The wild and freaky one [Samantha Jones] is my favourite of the four (Laughs). I can't wait to see it.

Splash: I am going to see it on Monday. We should go together. By the way, are you single?
Stacious: Yes, I am (Smiling)

Splash: Girl, please. So you're not seeing Mavado?
Stacious: No, I'm not (Laughs). We're just friends. He made an appearance in my video and from then, people have been saying we are dating. He's just a good yute and we hang out regularly. He's only a friend. I want to make that clear (Still laughing).

Splash: So it's all just rumour and speculation. No 'gully-side'?
Stacious: Exactly.

Splash: Oh, I see. So what do you think of his music?
Stacious: I love it. I enjoy listening to the gangster side of the music. I think [Mavado] is very melodious and he knows how to put his stuff together. I also think he's very misunderstood and, as a result, he's chastised a lot by the media and by people in general.

Splash: I see there's an expensive-looking engagement ring on your finger. Who is it from?
Stacious: It's from an ex-boyfriend. While I was living in New York in 2004, he proposed to me. But he wanted me to choose between him and music. And, of course, I chose my music. But I still wear the ring sometimes.

Splash: Real sentimental stuff. Speaking of music, what else are you working on currently? What can we look out for?
Stacious: Well, I am working with Ward 21 and we have another all-female project called the Estrogen Riddim, on which I have a new song called Goodaz Clap. My friends and family say they want to hear some girl tunes so I'm going to give them what they want (Laughs). I am also doing some ongoing work with 'Majic City' Records, a US-based label, so I hope good things will come out of that.

Splash: Do you like what you see happening in dancehall today?
Stacious: I think there is a lot more work to be done. We need to see more positive things coming out of dancehall. That's why, at this time, artistes have to take more responsibilities for their careers. My job as an artiste is to convey certain messages along with my thoughts and feelings because at the end of the day, I want to relate to everyday people. And right now, I think it's going good.

Splash: But what do you think it takes to have a long and successful career in the dancehall?
Stacious: It's a mix of talent and personality because if you're not easy to get along with, people will not want to work with you and you need people on your side to rise to the top and stay there.

Splash: Do you have what it takes?
Stacious: Definitely.

Splash: You seem like someone who loves kids. Would you be willing to kiss Pearnel Charles on the lips for $50,000 to benefit street kids?
Stacious: Yes, for charity and for children, I would do it. I would just close my eyes and picture somebody else (Laughs).

Splash: What about for $5,000?
Stacious: No, it's not worth it. I need more. But if I was to kiss Tyrese for $5,000, no problem (Laughs).

JAH KNOW STILL MI WOULDA