A native of Kingston, Jamaica, dancehall singer Richie Spice is a member of a musical family that includes Pliers (best known for his production work with Chaka Demus), Spanner Banner, and DJ Snatcher Dogg. Richie Spice distinguishes himself, however, with a clear devotion to Rastafarian ideals and a rugged dancehall sound that exhibits debts to both hip-hop and pop. On albums such as 2001’s UNIVERSAL and 2007’s IN THE STREETS OF AFRICA, Spice delivers fierce roots rhythms along with socially conscious messages. His albums also include examples of his occasional forays into R&B and lover’s rock.