KINGSTON, Jamaica — Singer Robertha, who finished in third place in the 1992 edition of the now defunct Tastee Talent competition, says talent shows play a vital role in developing new talent.

Robertha, who once went by the name School Girl, says the experience that she gained from the Tastee Talent competition, helped to build her confidence.

“Yes, talent shows play an important part in developing new talent. It sets the pace for the main stage while giving emerging talent a platform to discover and unveil their true potential which is a gate opener that rounds up the rough edges,” Robertha told Observer Online recently.

She continued, “The experience of entering the Tastee Talent competition at the time was an exciting one and it also helped to push me out of my comfort zone. I learnt to be confident and how to perform in front of a crowd. It was the embryonic phase of what was to come. I am just embracing and anticipating the moment patiently,” said the Spanish Town based singer.

Last October, Robertha released her most recent single titled Crazy Love, produced by Gassie Ink Records.

“The idea for the song came about after much introspection of my journey on the love zone, coming into my own learning myself and embracing the balance of life and the universe and appreciating all that comes with it without judgment. Hence the idea for Crazy Love was conceived,” she explained.

She added, “This track expresses the epitome of true unconditional love reciprocated especially in a time and era where genuine love seems almost extinct. This song was inspired by personal experiences. Everyone desires true love, love that’s selfless and pure. It didn’t come overnight but eventually the universe responded after I had a spiritual transformation.”

Robertha, whose real name is Sonya Downer released her first single in 1992. Her other releases include I Shall Not Be Moved and Beyond The Surface.

— Kevin Jackson