US-based Jamaican-born singer/songwriter Winsome Ashley believes forgiveness is an essential trait for happiness.

“When you forgive someone, you let go of any ill feelings or the hurt they caused. You, in turn, release yourself from those negative feelings and take yourself to a higher level,” said Ashley, who records under the moniker Rosilina Rolyat.

It is that thinking which provided the inspiration for the R&B-reggae-flavoured I Wish You Happiness.

Released a month ago, the single is on her ArticalMotion imprint and features Farrah ‘Sparkle’ Roshay. It is available on iTunes and Amazon Music.

“I Wish You Happiness is for everybody. It’s about moving on and wishing the other party happiness. No hard feelings… My songs tell a story and each song is like a chapter of that tale,” said Ashley.

Last September, Ashley released the gospel track Pray On. She said the single’s reception is encouraging.

“It is being played on a couple of radio stations in New York and New Jersey. The word is getting out… the journey is still young, but we’re getting there,” she told the Jamaica Observer.

She said she hopes to release an album at the end of the year, as she has “tons of songs”.

“It’s just a matter of selecting the right ones for the album. I’m just taking my time to get it done properly. I want something that people will be talking about long after I’m gone,” she said.

Hailing from St Catherine, Ashley migrated to the United States in 2002.

She is a firm believer in giving back.

“You can’t live for yourself. I have been involved in several charities over the year… I have a back-to-school drive, which I send school supplies to both Jamaica and here in States; and I also have a Christmas toy drive and winter coat drive in the States,” she said.

But for now, Ashley is focusing on getting her music out.

“I’m encouraging people to listen to the words, the songs are very powerful,” she added.

— Brian Bonitto