Grace Latoya Hamilton, known professionally as Spice, is a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur who has become a defining voice in contemporary dancehall music. Celebrated for her powerful stage presence, unapologetic lyrics, and bold fashion choices, she has earned the title of the “Queen of Dancehall.” Her career, spanning over two decades, reflects a journey of resilience, innovation, and cultural impact.
Early Life and Background
Born on August 6, 1982, in Portmore, Jamaica, Grace Hamilton was raised in a strict Christian household. Her early exposure to music came through the church choir, where she developed a passion for singing. Despite facing financial hardships and the loss of her father at a young age, Hamilton’s determination to pursue music remained steadfast. Her upbringing in a deeply religious environment contrasted with the provocative themes she would later explore in her music, highlighting her journey from gospel roots to dancehall prominence.
Musical Career and Breakthrough
1999–2007: Early Years and Rise to Prominence
Spice’s entry into the music scene was facilitated by renowned Jamaican artist Ninjaman, who introduced her to the stage in 1999. Her debut performance at the annual dancehall festival Sting in 2000 marked a significant milestone, earning her multiple encores and setting the stage for her future success. Collaborations with artists like Beenie Man and Jimmy Cliff further established her presence in the industry.
In 2005, Spice released “Fight Over Man,” her first major hit, which gained popularity on the Eighty Five riddim. This track showcased her unique style and lyrical prowess, propelling her into the spotlight. After a brief hiatus following the birth of her son in 2007, she returned to the music scene with renewed vigor.
2008–2012: International Recognition
A pivotal moment in Spice’s career came in 2008 with the release of “Romping Shop,” a collaboration with Vybz Kartel. The song achieved international acclaim, charting on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and receiving extensive airplay. Despite being banned by the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation due to its explicit content, “Romping Shop” solidified Spice’s status as a leading figure in dancehall.
In 2009, she signed with VP Records, releasing tracks like “Jim Screechie” and collaborating with artists such as Missy Elliott and Mýa, further expanding her reach in the global music scene.
2013–2016: Artistic Evolution and Social Commentary
Spice’s 2013 single “So Mi Like It” marked a significant evolution in her musical style, blending dancehall with elements of pop and hip-hop. The accompanying music video became the most viewed by a female Jamaican artist on YouTube, amassing over 129 million views by 2025. The song’s success was amplified by a remix featuring rapper Busta Rhymes.
In 2018, Spice sparked a global conversation about colorism with her controversial Instagram post showing dramatically lighter skin. She later revealed the image was part of a campaign to raise awareness about skin bleaching and color bias, releasing the single “Black Hypocrisy” to address the issue head-on.
2020–2022: Commercial Success and Industry Recognition
Spice’s debut studio album, 10, released in August 2021, was executively produced by Shaggy and featured collaborations with Sean Paul and Shaggy himself. The album debuted at number six on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and was nominated for Best Reggae Album at the 64th Grammy Awards in 2022. The lead single, “Go Down Deh,” became a significant hit, earning millions of streams and widespread acclaim.
In 2021, Spice departed from VP Records, marking a new chapter in her career. She later credited Shaggy with helping her navigate the challenges of the music industry, including assisting her in escaping a restrictive contract and producing her album.
2023–Present: Resilience and New Horizons
In late 2022, Spice faced a life-threatening health scare during a medical procedure in the Dominican Republic, which led to a temporary hiatus from the public eye. She made a triumphant return in 2023 with the release of “God A Bless Me,” a song celebrating her recovery and resilience. The track was accompanied by a music video that showcased her journey back to health.
Spice’s 2025 album, Mirror 25, reflects her artistic evolution and personal experiences, blending reggae, dancehall, and gospel influences. The album’s release was preceded by the single “Spice Marley,” a tribute to her late father, Anthony Hamilton.
Fashion and Cultural Impact
Beyond music, Spice has made significant contributions to fashion and cultural discourse. Her bold fashion choices, including elaborate bodysuits and gender-defying outfits, challenge traditional norms within the dancehall scene. Notably, her 2014 hit “Like A Man” featured a three-piece suit and mustache ensemble, addressing gender bias and sexism in the industry.
Spice’s influence extends to social media, where she has amassed a substantial following, using her platform to promote body positivity and self-expression.
Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy
Spice has diversified her career through various entrepreneurial ventures. In 2009, she launched Spicey Couture, a clothing boutique chain in Jamaica, and later expanded into beauty with Spicey Salon and 8 Ball Sports Bar. In 2019, she introduced Faces & Laces, an online beauty store, which evolved into Graci Noir in 2020, offering cosmetics and fashion items.
