AFTER 17 years in the music industry, D’Angel has managed to remain a household name. She was one of the standout acts on Ghetto Splash at Waterhouse Mini Stadium in St Andrew on Tuesday night.

At 44, she looks as youthful as when she emerged with Living Uptown in 2005. These days, the tabloid darling balances artistry with motherhood and philanthropy through the Angel’s Foundation Jamaica?

“The youthfulness is on my side. I continue to do music that will resonate with each generation,” she told the Jamaica Observer yesterday as she finished last-minute Christmas shopping.

“Genetically, my family doesn’t change much. So, I have good genes on my side. I’m also happy and forgiving. I’m always smiling. You’ll never see a frown on my face, no matter what is going on. I’m always loving and praising God. If you’re not a good person, you’re just not going to look good!” she added, bursting into laughter.

The singer, whose given name is Michelle Downer, said she strives to be authentic, and it has worked in her favour.

“I always say good music is what lasts forever. Look at Baby Father [featuring Vybz Kartel] and Downtown Girl…those are still popular and trending. I do not go with the flow. I stick to what works for me and my brand and what my audience gravitates to,” she said.

In October, the Broadcasting Commission issued a ban on music glorifying violence and the use of illicit drugs such Molly on the radio. Their action drew mixed reviews, but for D’Angel, it was not the most effective move.

“It doesn’t make a difference. You have to censor what your children listen to as a parent because that’s not the responsibility of artistes. The ban doesn’t make sense because music is still on YouTube and anybody can look it up,” she explained.

D’Angel started out as a model with the popular Miguel Models in the 1990s. She later auditioned for a group called LOY which was managed by Horatio Hamilton, music and events promoter for the Sashi series.

She is completing an eight-track EP titled Exposed to be released in early 2023.

“The distributor decided that 2023 would be a good time to release it. It’s going to express who I am. I am anticipating good feedback…this will show the sexy side of D’Angel,” she said.

Among her hits are Blaze, produced by Arif Cooper; the autobiographical Stronger; No Worries, featuring Spice; Can’t Love You Good, featuring G Whizz; One Man with Beenie Man; Babyfather, featuring Vybz Kartel; and Love Is, featuring Cocoa Tea.

D’Angel had words of encouragement for her Jamaican audience during the festive season.

“I wish for peace, love and unity in the country. It can be better. I’m playing my part as a philanthropist. Even to tell someone you love them—that will go a long way. To my Angels, I want to say Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. Go for your goals in 2023 and never give up and aspire to always be great,” she said.