Georgetown, Guyana-born singer Nesta Nelson, known to fans as “Hot Gyal” Nesta, is stepping confidently into the new year with a new dancehall single on a “Ride,” continuing her momentum from previous releases.
Released on Jan. 1, “Ride” was produced by dancehall producer Damion “Jkeez” Hewitt of Jkeez Recording Studio. This collaboration, according to Jamaican-born, New York-based entertainment promoter Anthony “ER Guru” Turner, marks a notable development in her career.
Reflecting on the new single, Turner told Caribbean Life on Tuesday, Jan. 6, “The track signals a fearless new direction for the rising Guyanese star.”
Continuing her story, Nesta said dancehall music shaped her musical upbringing.
Continuing her story, Nesta said dancehall music shaped her musical upbringing.
“Growing up in Guyana, I was heavily influenced by reggae and dancehall sounds,” she said. “I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and pay homage to a genre that’s bold, confident, and expressive.”
Expanding on the creative process, Nesta said the lyrics for “Ride” were penned by her close collaborator, Kapa Shanti, who helped to unlock her confidence. She added that early reaction has been strong, with a sneak preview pulling in over 100,000 Instagram views.
She explained, “People love the energy, the confidence, and the vibe of the song. They weren’t expecting this side of me, but they’re loving the growth and versatility.”
Building on her new direction, Nesta said that riding the dancehall riddim felt natural.
Building on her new direction, Nesta said that riding the dancehall riddim felt natural.
She elaborated, “I’m a versatile singer, and dancehall allows me to be fearless. It was about confidence, self-expression, and owning my femininity without apology.”
Looking ahead, Nesta said she has plans to enter “Ride” in the Dancehall Monarch Guyana competition. She also hopes to visit Jamaica and New York soon to further promote “Ride” and possibly collaborate on new music.
Looking ahead, Nesta said she has plans to enter “Ride” in the Dancehall Monarch Guyana competition. She also hopes to visit Jamaica and New York soon to further promote “Ride” and possibly collaborate on new music.
Summing up her ambitions, she said, “I am clear about my goals. I want ‘Ride’ to travel across borders. This is just the beginning. I’m bringing much more fire soon.”
