The Tribune

By LESH

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

PAULA McKeva’s distinctive style and vocal range has gained her much notoriety in the Bahamas and internationally. She is no stranger to the music scene or performing live. This proud mother of three is seeing her dreams as her ever growing body of work is being well received.

It is said that from disappointment and pain true art flourishes. Paula said after the pain of her divorce, she turned to singing for solace and as a means to help provide for her children. She is an executive administrative assistant at Atlantis during the day. She transforms into a vivacious diva at night.

She entertains audiences with her performances at the Atlantis Resort, Lyford Cay Club and Sandals Resort. She is currently preparing for an upcoming show at Crazy Johnny on East Bay Street.

“I’ve participated in numerous talent competitions around Nassau; the last one back in 2004 at the Hard Rock Café where I won with my rendition of ‘And I’m Telling You’ (Jennifer Holiday version) and ‘I Believe’ by Fantasia,” said Paula to In Ya Ear.

She said performing at Atlantis, Sandals and Lyford Cay Resorts has led to some enduring friendships with guests that contract with her to perform at their events internationally. 

“It is always such a rich and rewarding experience to entertain people wherever they are in this world. I’ve performed with world renowned artist Bebe Winans at the Atlantis Employee Crystal Awards and performed for the Michael Jordan Celebrity Tournament,” said Paula.

Speaking about her new single “Over Me,” Paula said the song is based on personal experience, and something that all young women can relate to. 

“You know you are out on the town with a few girlfriends and you walk in a particular place while that music is playing and your eyes meet that fine gentleman where you experience that special kind of chemistry. It’s that fleeting attraction that makes your heart skip a couple of beats,” said Paula.

After sitting down with her producer, Mega, Paula said they came up with the lyrics and the name of the song. She said they wrapped up the music video for ‘Over Me’ back in March, and she is so excited for its release. The song, as well as the video is expected to be released in December.

“I hope and pray the Bahamian public at large will give me the support I need so that it may become a success. As an artist, the music is always first in my heart and mind. The good Lord willing, I will share it with the world,” said Paula.

She has three other singles near completion: the first is a ballad called H.W.A.H.T. which stands for He Was A Husband Too. The other singles include Amnesia and another one called Why Should I.

“It is not easy but I believe that great talent finds a way. So I believe there is a market out there for us and there is so much talent right here in the Bahamas, it is just that many of us have not been discovered as yet,” said Paula.

She said her producer and management team are planning to get her in front of the public several more times before this year ends.

“I especially want to thank my co-writer and producer Mega and my marketing and management team for working so diligently with me,” said Paula.