Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Wayne Wonder during his performance in the 'Art of Reggae' segment of Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival last week. - Photos by Claudine Housen/Staff Photographer

Wayne Wonder showed that he is still a crowd favourite, at the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, 'Art of Reggae' segment on Friday.

It has a been a while since local fans have been graced with the smooth melodies of singer Wayne Wonder, but if the singer's reception at the Jazz and Blues festival is anything to go off, Wonder does not have to worry about regaining fan loyalty.

"It was nice, a few weeks ago I was also at Rebel Salute. Jazz had a nice vibe," Wonder said following his performance.

Wonder's career exploded globally in 2003 when his album No Holding Back and the single No Letting Go were released on Atlantic Records.

The smooth single dominated Urban and Pop radio (reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop chart) in America and the album, No Holding Back received a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, a MOBO Award in the UK, three BMI Urban awards, and a live performance on NBC Television's 'Saturday Night Live.' The follow-up single and video Bounce Along reached #12 on the U.K. pop charts.

Wonder is back with a new album and single that is set to blaze the scene.

Upcoming album

"The album coming out in May, it's called Forever, the single is out, Gonna Love You which is getting some spins on a couple of stations in the States. So we basically just get the street team together, ready to get the song buzzing."

Giving an idea of what to expect Wonder said, "You know how Wayne Wonder blend it, lover's rock; I balance it you know 'cause I'm a dancehall artiste and proud to say that."

He added, "It's style. I don't limit myself to what I do."

While some artistes may feel pressured to beat the standard of the last album, Wayne said he doesn't feel pressured to try to produce another Grammy-worthy album but just to produce good music.

"I do it for the music, for me a different yute weh inna di business."

"Cause guess what, for me it's not about the recognition, it's not about the hype, it's not about egos nor individuals, but for my music. Music means everything to me."