Biko Kennedy, Gleaner Writer

Dancehall songstress Bridgett 'Bridgez' Roache has had a passion for music from a very tender age. The single Roll Out, featuring Bounty Killer, has been receiving favourable airplay but, as Saturday Life found out, there is much more to this melodic singer-songwriter than that which meets the eye.

Saturday Life (SL): You were in a church group, was the intention ever to become a gospel artiste?

Bridgez (B): At the time I was only 11 and really shy, plus it was my first time performing, so at that time my focus wasn't on becoming an artiste at all.

SL: Who would you say you admire musically?

B: Mariah Carey, Aaliyah, Nadine Sutherland and Diana King.

SL: What kind of technology did you use to record your demos back then? And, what were the main topics your songs at that time focused on?

B: I'd mostly record using the mic on my computer, then immediately saving them. Back then, my songs evolved as I matured. First, I wrote mostly gospel, then love songs, then songs about relationships and social activities, basically anything people can relate to.

SL: Do you think that you are made to be a solo artiste?

B: Yep (lol)! 'Cause when you are in a group, you'll always find someone who will always want things to go their way and I'm not up for that 'cause I'm the type of person now who has a lot to say and my opinion must count!

SL: What contests and auditions did you participate in throughout your lifetime, which would you say were memorable?

B: I auditioned in the second staging of the Digicel Rising Stars competition and I didn't get to see the judges because there was this massive crowd, so we had to perform in front of Digicel personnel and you can conclude what happened (lol).

SL: Why do you think your songs 'If Love's a Game' and 'Shy' didn't get much attention?

B: Mainly because it wasn't released the right way.

SL: Of all the songs you've recorded which would you recommend individuals to listen to? What do you think is extra special about that track?

B: Hmm ... Take my Breath Away. It was recorded in only 10 minutes and I think people can relate to it more than my other songs.

SL: How were you approached by Bounty Killer to join The Alliance?

B: It really was a gradual thing as Bounty was always there from I was recording with Jah Snowcone Entertainment - always there encouraging and motivating me until one day he just said he wanted to manage me and I was like sure (lol).

SL: How would you say your career has changed since joining The Alliance?

B: Definitely booking more shows and getting more recognition locally and internationally.

SL: Have you seen any drawbacks in being associated with The Alliance?

B: (lol) No. I know The Alliance is known for various altercations but it comes down to my personality and staying out of beef with our rivals is the best thing.

SL: What can we look forward to seeing Bridgez doing in the future?

B: A whole lot more creative material.