Aleighcia Scott

Aleighcia Scott is a Welsh-Jamaican singer-songwriter and radio presenter, currently working with the BBC. She hosts the Thursday evening show on BBC Radio Wales and is recognized for her contributions to the reggae music scene.

Aleighcia Scott
Scott performing in 2024
Born	Cardiff, Wales
Occupation(s)	Singer-songwriter, presenter
Musical career
Genres	Reggae Dancehall R&B
Instruments	Vocals
Presenting career
Show	Aleighcia Scott
Network	BBC Radio Wales
Website	www.aleighciascott.com

Early and personal life

Scott was born in Cardiff, Wales, and has family roots in Trelawny, Jamaica.^[1][2] Her Welsh and Jamaican heritage has shaped her artistic identity, blending elements from both cultures into her work. Details about her early and personal life and musical influences remain sparse, but her cultural background is a recurring theme in her artistry.

Career

Music

Scott is a reggae artist who has worked with renowned industry figures, such as Salaam Remi, noted for his collaborations with Amy Winehouse and the Fugees.^[3] She has released music under the independent London-based label, Pecking Records,^[4] which helped establish her career.

Scott debuted with her EP, Forever in Love, in April 2018, marking her introduction to the reggae scene.^[5] Her first album, Windrush Baby, was released in September 2023 following over five years of collaboration with producer Rory StoneLove. Released on StoneLove's Black Dub label, the album addresses themes of heritage, resilience, and cultural identity. It received positive feedback for its authenticity and production quality.^[6][7]

In September 2024, Scott performed at the Sky Arts Awards alongside notable acts, including The Darkness, Slash, Brian Johnson, Ren, The Three Sopranos, and The Kanneh-Masons. This performance underlined her growing prominence in the UK music scene.^[8][9]

Radio

In March 2022, Scott was announced as the host of BBC Radio Wales' Thursday evening show, joining Huw Stephens, who presents the Monday to Wednesday editions.^[10][11] Her program focuses on reggae and Caribbean music, introducing Welsh audiences to diverse musical traditions.

During Christmas 2022, she hosted A Very Reggae Christmas with Aleighcia Scott, a festive reggae special for BBC Radio Wales.^[1] Additionally, she has occasionally sat in for David Rodigan on his Sunday afternoon reggae show on BBC Radio 1Xtra, further solidifying her reputation in broadcasting.^{[12][13][14][15][16][17][18]}

Artistic style and legacy

Musical style and influence

Aleighcia Scott's music integrates traditional reggae with contemporary elements, reflecting her dual Welsh-Jamaican heritage. Her lyrics explore themes of identity, heritage, and love, often drawing on personal and cultural experiences. Critics have highlighted her vocal talent and emotional resonance, comparing her to reggae icons while acknowledging her modern approach.

Reception and recognition

Scott has garnered praise for her contributions to both reggae music and broadcasting. Her debut album, Windrush Baby, received critical acclaim for its deep exploration of cultural themes and high production standards. Although her music caters to a niche audience within the broader mainstream, her radio work has been lauded for broadening reggae's reach, especially among Welsh listeners.

Legacy and impact

As both an artist and a presenter, Aleighcia Scott has become a prominent advocate for reggae. Her ability to engage audiences through music and radio underscores her significance within the genre. As her career progresses, she continues to be a vital voice for reggae in Wales and beyond.

References

1. "BBC Radio Wales releases star-studded festive programme schedule". www.bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
2. "Biography: Aleighcia Scott". www.reggaeville.com. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
3. "It's time for Reggae Christmas: Join Oxford's unusual, fun Christmas Eve tradition". Oxford Mail. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
4. "Peckings Records". Peckings Records. Retrieved 2 January 2025.
5. "Meet the artist making Wales a hotspot for reggae | The Voice Online". archive.voice-online.co.uk. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
6. Mr T. "Aleighcia Scott – Windrush Baby". Reggae-Vibes.com. Retrieved 12 September 2023.
7. Aubrey, Elisabeth (18 September 2024). "Vic Reeves invades stage during The Darkness set at Sky Arts Awards 2024". NME. Retrieved 18 September 2024.
8. "WINDRUSH BABY". Aleighcia Scott. Retrieved 12 September 2023.
9. Sky Arts Awards (17 September 2024). "Ren, The Darkness, Slash and Brian Johnson, The Three Sopranos and The Kanneh-Masons and Aleighcia Scott will all be taking to the stage tonight!". Retrieved 18 September 2024.
10. UK, RadioToday (23 March 2022). "Huw Stephens and Aleighcia Scott to host BBC Radio Wales' Evening Show". RadioToday. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
11. "Huw Stephens and Aleighcia Scott to present Radio Wales evening show". Nation.Cymru. 23 March 2022. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
12. "Aleighcia Scott sits in for David Rodigan". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 23 July 2023.
13. "Aleighcia Scott sits in for David Rodigan". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
14. "Aleighcia Scott sits in for David Rodigan". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 4 February 2024.
15. "Aleighcia Scott sits in: Josh Skints Interview & Guest Mix". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
16. "Aleighcia Scott sits in: Naomi Cowan joins Aleighcia Scott, plus we celebrate Bob Marley". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
17. "Aleighcia Scott sits in for David Rodigan: Freddie McGregor Interview". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 18 February 2024.
18. "Aleighcia Scott sits in for David Rodigan:". BBC Radio 1Xtra. Retrieved 9 February 2025.

External links

• Aleighcia Scott (BBC Radio Wales)