Persistent rainfall could do nothing to dampen the spirits of those who turned out on Wednesday for the launch of Etana’s latest album, Better Tomorrow.

The event did not get underway until way past the 6:00 pm scheduled start but that did not stop friends, fellow artistes, media and corporate sponsors from waiting to hear cuts from the Strong One’s latest project.

According to Etana, the 14-track album produced by Shane Brown represents all that is positive about reggae music.

She delivered an abbreviated performance which went over well with her drenched audience. At least two tracks from Better Tomorrow — the title track and Reggae — have already been making the rounds. She also dropped Queen, the woman-power track, which is also on the album.

She delivered an abbreviated performance which went over well with her drenched audience. At least two tracks from Better Tomorrow — the title track and Reggae — have already been making the rounds. She also dropped Queen, the woman-power track, which is also on the album.

To spice things up, Etana drew on works from her two previous albums, which had patrons singing along between the raindrops.

“Its all about reggae, a project with just a whole heap of energy and good vibes. It shows my growth and an undeniable love for the music,” Etana told Splash.

Even with album sales falling globally, and a move towards digital downloads in favour of compact discs, Etana is undaunted. She said there is still a market for albums.

“In my travels I have met so many people who are avid record collectors. They are interested in reading the liner notes, looking at track listings and see which musician played on the album,” she said.

She is looking to satisfy this corner of the market and use it as a marketing tool for more tours.

Etana also announced that she will be discontinuing her television show, Against All Odds.

“I need some time to build my brands and so I will not be continuing the show. I need to dedicate my time to touring more and breaking new ground,” she explained. “I just came back from New Zealand and realised that I have a lot of work to do there. There is also Australia, sections of Europe and of course, Africa. Plus I have to work on the clothing line and the food line as well.”