The last time J C Lodge performed in South Florida, it was just over four years ago for Alpha Academy, her alma mater in Jamaica. She returns February 12 for the Pluto And Friends show starring Pluto Shervington.
On her previous gig, it was some time since she scored a hit song. That changed last summer with Over, which topped the Foundation Radio Network Chart for several weeks, and earned her “The Top Female Vocalist Of 2021” title.
In a recent interview, she spoke about her professional ties to the Sunshine State.
“That (previous show) was for the Alpha Alumnae of 1976. It was our 41st reunion so I just had to do a couple of songs for my sistren. Before that, it was so long ago that I don’t quite recall the year, but I remember Freddie McGregor was on the show and there was a sizeable lineup,” she said.
The lineup for Pluto And Friends is also expansive. Boris Gardiner, Ernie Smith, Chalice and Third World are also on the show which takes place at the Sport of Kings Theater at Gulfstream Racetrack in Hallandale.
Lodge, who lives in London, broke through in 1978 with her reggae cover of the country song, Someone Loves You Honey. It was a hit throughout Europe and set the pace for hits like I Love You More Than Words Can Say, Make it up To You and Telephone Love. During the 1990’s, she was signed to Tommy Boy Records, then a leading independent hip hop company. Tropic of Love, her sole album for them, was released in 1992.
Born in London, Lodge returned to the United Kingdom permanently 20 years ago. In addition to recording new songs, she has recorded and produced a handful of children’s music albums.
She is “thrilled” to be part of next month’s event, and has fond memories of its star attraction. “I know Pluto from running into him at events and having enough time to reason with him. Great guy as well as artist! Down to earth, intelligent, caring and has a great sense of humor, so what’s not to love?” said Lodge. She gave her favorite Pluto Shervington songs as Your Honor and Ram Goat Liver.
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