Dancehall Artist Spice Hints at New Gospel Album After Changing Up Her Style and Image
Spice.
Credit :
Spex Photography
NEED TO KNOW
- Spice spoke exclusively about her plans to release her first gospel album.
- The Dancehall music star began the year with the release of the gospel song “God Don’t Play About Me.”
- She states, “Some people may see the colors that I wear, all the clothes that I wear, and feel like I am not worthy to sing a gospel song,”
Dancehall star Spice is embarking on a surprising musical journey.
In an exclusive interview, the Grammy-nominated artist, 43, shared that she is not only stepping away from her signature blue aesthetic and vibrant persona but also venturing into the realm of gospel music.
Known for her provocative lyrics and electrifying performances, Spice, whose real name is Grace Latoya Hamilton, captured attention with her Christian song, “You Are Worthy,” featured on her 2024 album, Mirror 25. She recently followed this up with the gospel single “God Don’t Play About Me.”
“‘You Are Worthy,’ my first gospel song, was extremely well received,” Spice remarked. “This new one is different in terms of the beat. It’s more uptempo—a full-blown worship song where you’d want to grab your tambourine.”
She elaborated, “Certain songs invite calm and reverence, but this one encourages you to dance, sing, and shout.”
Spice.
Spex Photography
The music video for “God Don’t Play About Me” showcases Spice alongside family and celebrity friends, including Rasheeda, Kirk Frost, and Jessie Woo. Spice disclosed that the song was inspired by gospel music she heard growing up in Portmore, Jamaica, including Sister Scully’s “Hurry Up.”
As a mother to an 18-year-old son, Nicholas, and a 14-year-old daughter, Nicholatoy, Spice shares her commitment to faith. “I try to attend church every other Sunday and encourage my children to embrace Christianity,” she said, adding that Sunday school was a staple of her upbringing.
“The only time I miss church is if I’m on tour or have a performance, but when I’m home, I go with my family,” she explained. “I wish I could join the choir—I have a loud voice—but I tend to get shy in that setting.”
Spice with her son Nicholas and daughter Nicholatoy.
Spex Photography
Attending Now Faith Apostolic Church in Atlanta, Spice’s gospel songs have resonated with both longtime fans and new Christian audiences. She noted that her music has been featured in TikTok videos where users share their spiritual experiences.
“It’s heartwarming to read their testimonies; it feels like I’ve made a bold move as a dancehall artist,” she said, expressing enthusiasm about the impact of “God Don’t Play About Me.”
Spice.
Aaron J. Thornton/Getty
Spice acknowledges that her shift toward gospel has received mixed reactions. Some critics suggest that a dancehall artist should not pursue gospel music, to which she responds with biblical perspective, noting, “Judge not, that ye be judged.”
Continuing her vibrant performances, Spice plans to conclude her shows with her gospel music. “It’s a meaningful way to send people home—reminding them to praise God,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to sharing her faith on tour.
Spice at the 2022 Grammy Awards.
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
The artist has expressed aspirations to collaborate with gospel music icons, including CeCe Winans. She shared plans for a gospel album, stating, “I will keep releasing singles and see how to piece the album together.”
While noting she is not an expert in gospel music, Spice emphasized her dedication to worship and intends to refine her approach before formally releasing her album. “Gospel is my favorite genre—it calms me,” she added.
In addition to her music career and role in Love and Hip-Hop: Atlanta, Spice manages the clothing brand Graci Noir and runs a nonprofit organization in her name.
The artist’s transformation includes shedding her signature blue look for a new persona, recently showcased in the song “Soft Girl Era.” She describes this new identity as a softer, more serene version of herself.
“I’ve transitioned into a less flamboyant self—embracing my flaws and showing up with calmness,” she explained. Spice highlights her dual identity, affirming the distinction between her public persona and private life.
