Cat Eyes: 'Leaving' fans wanting more

Carl Gilchrist, Gleaner Writer

Recording artiste, Rochelle Marie Farquharson goes by the stage name Cat Eyes. But forget about those beautiful eyes that earned her the moniker. Instead, pay attention to the voice.

One may be forgiven if, at first, one's mind were to flash back to Anita Baker and that sultry, soulful, jazzy voice of hers.

One just needs to listen to Cat Eyes' latest project, Leaving, produced by legendary reggae music producer Bobby Digital for Boston, Massachusetts-based Mad Storm Records, to be convinced that she is ready for the big league.

The song grows on you until you can't help but press the replay button over and over. Such is the magnetism and soulful prowess possessed by this talented 25-year-old recording artiste, who has been singing since age 14.

Cat Eyes' style could be described as a blend of reggae, dancehall and rhythm and blues (R&B).

Based in Fort Riley, Kansas, Cat Eyes has collaborated with several reggae and dancehall acts including Beenie Man, Sizzla, Little Hero and Da'Ville.

"My music is intended to inspire everyone who comes in contact with it," says the singer.

"If my songs impact my fellow brothers and sisters towards a new consciousness, enlistment and righteous practices, then I would consider my music relevant to the times."

Cat Eyes has performed several times in Jamaica, including appearances on Follow Di Arrow at James Bond Beach and at Taboo Spring Break in Negril.

She's got a heart too. In May 2010, she broke down while being interviewed by Ron Muschette on Irie FM after hearing reports about the Tivoli incursion and loss of lives. She sang a verse of Help Us Now, a capella, dedicated to those affected by the violence.

Currently putting tracks together for her first album, Cat Eyes has released several tracks in the past including Hold Me, How He Got Me, It's You, and Baby Baby.