Nana McLean

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About Nana McLean

b. c.1960, Jamaica, West Indies. McLean began singing in her childhood, and won various local carnival contests. A notable success came at the Donkey Carnival in Linstead Market, where her performance led to her singing for the Soul Defenders, and she made her debut recording sessions at Studio One in 1977. Coxsone Dodd released her interpretation of ‘Til I Kissed You’, which announced McLean’s arrival and showcased her characteristic style. She continued to maintain a high profile within the industry through to 1979, when she was commissioned to record Dream Of Life, released through A&M Records. As with many major label signings, the relationship was brief and she returned to an independent recording career. In 1987, she was recording with King Jammy (‘Single Girl’) and for the Youth & Youth co-operative (‘Take Me Higher’). By the early 90s she had gained prominence for her work with Donovan Germain and Dave ‘Rude Boy’ Kelly. ‘Take Me I’m Yours’ was followed by the retrospective ‘Nana’s Medley’, which featured 50s doo-wop over the popular ‘A Love I Can Feel’ rhythm. A popular medley including versions of ‘Daddy’s Home’, ‘Eddie My Love’ and ‘Sincerely’ led to a series of hits, such as ‘Let Me Cover You’ and ‘I Will Follow You’, which cemented her association with the duo. Although McLean relocated to Canada, she remained loyal to the Germain’s Penthouse organization, and in 1997 she earned a Juno award for her release Collectors Series.

HOMETOWN
Jamaica
BORN
1960
GENRE
Reggae

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