All roads led to the Waterhouse recording studio of Lloyd “King Jammy” James during the 1980s and 1990s. It’s where the biggest artistes hung out, expecting to hop on the hottest rhythms by Steely and Clevie.

Dona V listened to those hit songs from his home in New York and longed to voice on their timeless rhythms. He finally got the opportunity last February when he and King Jammy recorded songs for When Last, the singer’s third album.

The 10-song set was released by VPAL Music in April. It contains songs like President Nebuchadnezzar, done on the Far East rhythm; Mus haffi Get You ( Storm rhythm); and When Last You Give, which is on the Peanie Peanie rhythm.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, Dona V said King Jammy was drawn to his vocals, which bear an uncanny likeness to one of the artistes who made his label a powerhouse.

“He thought I had a Cocoa Tea similarity and, as a result, most of the background vocals were intentionally used to divert a little from that Cocoa Tea sound. My intention was more focused on sending clear and relatable messages which I think turned out to be uniquely good,” said Dona V.

Cocoa Tea, who died in 2025, was one of the marquee acts in King Jammy’s camp, along with Admiral Bailey, Pinchers, and Shabba Ranks. His hits for the producer include
Tune In, Girl Go Home, and Who She Love (with Home T and Shabba Ranks).

Born in Manchester, Dona V has been a recording artiste for over 30 years. His previous albums are A Cry For Tomorrow and Any Means Necessary.

With When Last, he hopes to revive memories and win new fans.

“My intention is to attract all the original reggae audiences, then and now, who are longing to dance to some classic, never-dying rhythms, along with words and stories to make the listeners think, dream and feel good,” said Dona V.