Annette B

Annette B, a gospel singer and recording artist, built her early career in lovers rock, the UK version of reggae, influenced by her Jamaican heritage.

Her spiritual foundation began in the Church of God of Prophecy, where she participated in the “Gleaner band” from age three, instilling discipline and singing skills. This strong grounding proved vital when she temporarily left the church in her mid-teens, as her conscience would “prick” her when she strayed from her faith.

At just 14, Annette B. organised a successful school fundraiser. This led to a record deal at 15 and the release of her self-written song “Ain’t No Stoppin Us Now.” She later signed with labels like Greensleeves’ UK Bubblers and Jet Star, releasing her debut album, Fairy Godmother. Her secular career took her to the US, where she recorded with reggae legend Sir Coxsone. However, during a performance back in the UK, an inner voice prompted her to re-evaluate her life, leading her to decline a contract with Studio One and abstain from singing for five years, a period she describes as God’s “transitioning.”

After committing her life to Christ, Annette B returned to her church and resumed singing, embracing a unique and intentional ministry: performing gospel music in nightclubs. She kept her secular artist name, Annette B, to reach her former audience with the gospel message. A powerful testament to this ministry was the story of “Pop God Style,” a reggae-infused gospel version of her hit “Uptown Top Ranking.” Though unreleased commercially, a man heard it on the radio while on his way to commit murder, leading to his spiritual transformation. This solidified her conviction to minister “wherever the souls are.”

Annette B passionately advocates for the acceptance of reggae in church, arguing that “God is the author of all music” and that lyrical content determines its gospel nature. She believes this approach helps keep people spiritually “fed.” Her obedience opened unexpected doors in media, leading to her own segment “Gospel Explosion” on Ben TV and the establishment of GX Radio, TV, and the GX Awards in 2015. These ventures, along with her entrepreneurial skills developed since age 14, are seen as God’s plan for His glory.

She emphasizes the importance of supporting young talent and recognizing the unique "black British gospel sound," a blend of American, Caribbean, and British influences, and calls for unity in the church to advance this legacy.

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Celebrating the musical impact of the Windrush generation in the West Midlands.

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Celebrating the musical impact of the Windrush Generation in the West Midlands & Beyond