Kaye Starh, born Carlene Ford in Saint Catherine Parish, Middlesex County, Jamaica, is a singer-songwriter whose journey into music is as rich and deep-rooted as the culture she represents.
Her musical legacy stretches generations — her grandfather was part of the original Hallelujah Singers, the first gospel recording group in her family. Growing up surrounded by music, her uncle rose to lead one of Jamaica’s legendary ska bands, The Pioneers, while her aunt and mother honed their voices singing in church. Jamaican folk and gospel melodies were the soundtrack to her early years, echoing through chores, playtime, and school functions.
Yet, music wasn’t her first passion. As a teen at Rosemount Junior High, Kaye leaned toward modeling, winning her high school pageant and joining the drama club, which sparked her love for writing poetry. She continued to pursue pageantry, placing as 2nd runner-up in Miss Northwest Saint Catherine 1993, earning titles like Best Smile, Best Talented, and Most Aware.
From 1995–1997, she moved to Falmouth, Trelawny, working in community development and participating in cultural festivals and fashion shows. In 1998, she returned to Saint Catherine to compete in Ms. Club Jamaica. Soon after, she relocated to Kingston to study midwifery, graduating with a diploma.
Though music was always in her blood, her parents emphasized the importance of education. However, a fateful moment changed everything. While studying travel and tourism at Columbus Travel, a classmate heard her singing a Destiny’s Child song and handed her a studio address. That audition landed her first recording at Anchor Records with African Star, Capleton’s camp.
From there, Kaye became a sought-after background vocalist, gaining respect in the industry and achieving financial independence. She worked with icons like Gregory Isaacs (1997–1999) and officially joined Black Uhuru in November 1999, debuting at D Bus Negril.
Kaye Starh’s journey is a true testament to the power of legacy, perseverance, and passion. From church choirs to reggae royalty, she stands as a reflection of Jamaica’s cultural pride and the heartbeat of its underground-to-iconic music scene.
Follow Kaye Starh on Instagram: @kayestarhofficial
