NEGRIL, Westmoreland — Julie Dexter, world renowned, award- winning British singer, songwriter and producer, considered by many to be among the most influential international female vocalists, left the island recently following a brief vacation in her native parish of Westmoreland.

“I am just here for a short vacation spending some time with my family members and friends,” the internationally acclaimed jazz singer told the Observer West recently.

Her dynamic voice was first heard in 1994 on ‘The Jamaican Beat’ Vol 1, then later in 1997 on Dune Records’ release of J-Life, a European Jazz quintet formed by Gary Crosby and led by Jason Yarde. She later toured several continents with Jazz legend Courtney Pine as the lead vocalist for his ensemble.

In 1999, Dexter moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she now resides. She launched her own label, Ketch A Vibe Records, and in 2000 released the critically acclaimed EP Peace of Mind, followed by Dexterity (2002), Conscious (2005) and New Again (2011). Moon Bossa, a collaboration with Khari Simmons, was released in 2007 and her single “Ketch A Vibe” was featured in national radio ads for Democratic Presidential Candidate Senator Barack Obama.

From Jazz to World Music, Soul and beyond, Julie Dexter, who is among the elite few whose talent has transcended genres, has expressed her desire to do a collab with a reggae artiste.

She has shared the stage with a host of cutting-edge artistes, including Mint Condition, Lalah Hathaway, Caron Wheeler, Jill Scott, Omar, Ledisi, Third World, Maxi Priest and Doug Carn.

She revealed that she was influenced by legends such as Nancy Wilson, Abbey Lincoln, and Bob Marley, as well as popular icons Omar and Sade.