By Howard Campbell Observer senior writer From Jamaica Observer

Though she has been an artiste for over 25 years, singer Michelle T Durrant still gets a few flutters when show time approaches.

Known as Michelle T, she makes her first appearance in Jamaica as a solo act on August 1 at the Gospel On The River show in Black River, St Elizabeth.

“I am very excited and anxious,” said Michelle T, who lives in Grand Cayman. She will also be promoting her album, Here is my Praise, and its title track which were launched in that country on June 20.

Here is my Praise has 16 songs, some of which were co-produced by keyboardist Ervin ‘Alla’ Lloyd of Chalice fame, and Diavallan ‘Dia’ Fearon, best known for his work with hardcore dancehall acts.

Jermaine Edwards, Clive Bennett and Dwayne Euter also produced songs for the set.

Michelle T has no issues working with secular musicians.

“They are firm believers of Christ and they are sending the same message. They have been working with me throughout my singing career and it’s just that some have reconciled their lives to God,” she said.

She has a similar policy for her own music. Her debut album, 2006’s First Date, was a slate of rhythm and blues songs.

The Kingston-born Michelle Durrant’s career started in the junior choir of her church. One of its high points was being a member of the Grace Thrillers, arguably the most influential Jamaican gospel act.

She was with the ‘Thrillers’ for 12 years, leaving in 1999. Since 1996, Michelle T has lived in Grand Cayman, establishing herself in gospel circles.

More Than You Can Bear, a collaboration with George Nooks and one of the songs from Here is my Praise, earned her Grand Cayman’s Female Artiste of the Year in 2012.

Gospel On The River, which also has Jermaine Edwards, Kevin Downswell, Judith Gayle, Goddy Goddy, Katalys Crew and Sis Pat as performers, is a charity event for the Black River Hospital.

Michelle T will also perform at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s Gospel Song Final on August 2.
IMAGE: Michelle T

For more on this story go to: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Michelle-T-brings-praise-from-Cayman_19219928