Early Life and Background
Full Name: Chinsea Linda Lee
Stage Name: Shenseea
Date of Birth: October 1, 1996
Place of Birth: Mandeville, Jamaica
Nationality: Jamaican
Genres: Dancehall, Reggae, Hip-Hop, Pop, Afrobeats, Latin Trap
Years Active: 2016–present
Labels: Interscope Records, Rich Immigrants
Website:
Chinsea Linda Lee, known professionally as Shenseea, was born in Mandeville, Jamaica, to a Jamaican mother and a Korean father. Raised in Kingston, she attended Mona High School and later enrolled at Excelsior Community College (Exed) in Kingston to study Entertainment Management. However, due to financial constraints, she was unable to complete her studies.
Musical Beginnings and Breakthrough
Shenseea’s musical journey began in 2015 when she gained attention with her remix of Vybz Kartel’s “Loodi.” Her performance on the side stage at Reggae Sumfest that year marked her first major public appearance. By 2017, she had secured a spot on the main stage of Reggae Sumfest, solidifying her presence in the dancehall scene.
In 2019, Shenseea signed with Interscope Records and released “Blessed,” a hip-hop/dancehall track featuring American artist Tyga. The song garnered over 58 million views on YouTube by April 2022.
Major Collaborations and International Recognition
Shenseea’s international breakthrough came with her feature on Kanye West’s 2021 song “Pure Souls,” alongside Roddy Ricch. The track entered the Billboard Hot 100 and contributed to the nomination of its parent album, Donda, for Album of the Year at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.
In 2023, she performed at the 22nd Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and joined the Tropical Takeover Tour with Sean Paul and Myke Towers. That same year, she received an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding International Song for her collaboration on “Diana” with Nigerian artist Fireboy DML.
Discography and Musical Evolution
Alpha (2022)
Shenseea’s debut studio album, Alpha, released on March 11, 2022, showcases her versatility across genres. The album features collaborations with Megan Thee Stallion, Beenie Man, and Sean Paul. Critics highlighted tracks like “Bouncy” and “Body Count” for their innovative production and Shenseea’s dynamic vocal delivery.
Never Gets Late Here (2024)
Her sophomore album, Never Gets Late Here, released on May 24, 2024, continues her exploration of diverse musical styles. The album includes collaborations with artists such as Anitta, Coi Leray, Wizkid, Masicka, and Di Genius. The lead single, “Hit & Run,” featuring Masicka and Di Genius, became a significant hit in Jamaica and the Caribbean, with its music video amassing over 60 million views on YouTube.
Awards and Nominations
- MOBO Awards: Two-time winner.
- Grammy Awards: Nominated for Best Reggae Album for Never Gets Late Here (2025).
- NAACP Image Award: Outstanding International Song for “Diana” with Fireboy DML (2023).
- MTV Video Music Awards: Nominated in 2022.
Personal Life
Shenseea has a son and divides her time between Jamaica and the United States. She has been open about her experiences and challenges, using her platform to inspire others and advocate for personal growth and resilience.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Shenseea has emerged as a leading figure in modern dancehall, known for her ability to blend traditional Jamaican sounds with global music trends. Her work has not only contributed to the international appeal of dancehall but has also paved the way for future generations of artists to explore and innovate within the genre.
Selected Discography
- Studio Albums:
- Alpha (2022)
- Never Gets Late Here (2024)
- Notable Singles:
- “Blessed” (2019)
- “Loodi” (2015)
- “Pon Mi” (2018)
- “Hit & Run” (2024)
- “Die For You” (2024)
Tours and Performances
- Tropical Takeover Tour (2023): With Sean Paul and Myke Towers.
- Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (2023): Performed at the 22nd edition.
