Discovered by the legendary Bob Marley when girls her age were still fond of dolls, Nadine Sutherland earned her stripes as a happening singer of the 1990s (think Terror Fabulous’ Action and you’ll get the picture). The Digicel Rising Stars judge-cum-Cougar singer is proudly embracing her older, wiser years as she sips vino at Susie’s On The Terrace telling us all about when the stage lights fade.

What are you sipping?

A glass of easy Merlot.

What do you love most about Susie’s On The Terrace?

The coffee, the frappuccinos and Susie’s kindness; she’s always a superb host.

Socialite or homebody?

Homebody, I’m too public…I’m trying to change my life (laughs).

Flats or stilettos?

Both. I prefer the comfort of flats, but every now and again I give in to vanity and opt for something that makes my legs look sexy.

TV or good book?

Both.

What are you reading/watching?

I’m reading A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle and boring-old-me is watching Oprah. I

love her!

What’s in your clutch?

My BlackBerry, several lipglosses, my keys and

MAC compact.

What’s your style?

I would say sophisticated and classy.

Who does your hair?

Melody Aarons at Chic Lines, Eden Gardens. I’ve been going to her since I was in my 20s.

Who does your nails?

Shakira who is also at Chic Lines.

What perfume are you spraying?

Coco Chanel Mademoiselle.

What’s the best thing about being a Digicel Rising Stars judge?

For me, it’s contributing to the development of new and young talent. I’ve learnt so much from my years in the music industry and I feel it’s my way of giving back…it’s quite gratifying to see Romain Virgo or Christopher Martin grow, and in some small way I feel I had something to do with that.

What’s in your car stereo?

Usher; musically the boy is on point.

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

Being with nature, having some great wine and enjoying some intense conversation; I’m weak for a man with intellect.

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

One who makes me feel like he’ll catch me if I fall; he must have integrity, must not only be physically attractive, but he must also be able to stimulate my mind.

Your song Cougar is hot right now. What are your thoughts on older-women-younger-men relationships?

If that’s what makes you happy, girlfriend, why not?

What’s your latest obsession?

Going back to school; I would like to be respected by academia.

What projects are you currently working on?

After Cougar, I did a track with DJ Bambino, so that’s the next project I’m working on.

Who or what

inspires you?

The river; I find a lot of tranquility there. She has a lot of obstacles, but she charts new courses around them. The river is an excellent metaphor for life.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

‘There’s nothing in this life that can define you unless

you choose.’

And 10 years from now?

I’ll be on some lecture tours and doing music. Hopefully I’ll be in a relationship and I’ll be able to see the fruits of my labour in terms of the people I’ve invested in.