Ikaya encourages women to protect themselves

International recording artiste Ikaya recently released a thought-provoking new single titled Self Defense which takes a serious look at domestic violence against women.

"Domestic violence is one of those age-old issues faced by women worldwide that you wish would end, but it never does. This is because a lot of women are too scared or just too dependent on the men who are abusing them to walk away," she said. " Self Defense is the second in a series of songs that I have recorded that addresses this topic. The first one, Disloyalty, was released a few months ago. I hope the message in these songs will help to empower women who are victims of domestic violence to stand up and defend themselves."

Ikaya said Self Defense was inspired by the recent death of a friend.

"While I have never been a victim of domestic violence, I have known women who have been in those situations, and I recently lost a friend who was in an abusive relationship. Her partner killed her and then killed himself. That is why I have recorded this song and Disloyalty, to encourage women to stand up for themselves and get out of abusive relationships," she said.

Produced by Pandemic Records on the 'Things and Time' rhythm, Self Defense was released on January 20.

"I'm happy with the response that this song has received, it's getting a lot of support from DJs in Jamaica, the US, and other parts of the world. The video was released on March 10 and it's also doing well," said Ikaya.

Born Kadian Blair, Ikaya grew up in Waterhouse in St Andrew. She made her recording debut in 2003 as a featured artiste on Capleton's monster hit, Fire.

Ikaya is also known for songs such as Hard Way, Nosey Neighbour which was done with Dexta Daps, and Mi General.