Veteran Jamaican deejay Sister Nancy, a foundational figure in reggae and dancehall music, is set to release her new album, ‘Armageddon,’ on October 3, 2025. The highly anticipated project is produced by the internationally acclaimed dub innovator Mad Professor, marking a significant collaboration between two revered artists in the global music landscape.
The Enduring Legacy of Sister Nancy
Born Ophlin Russell in Kingston, Jamaica, Sister Nancy carved out a unique and powerful niche in a predominantly male-dominated music scene. She is widely recognized as the first female dancehall MC, a pioneering achievement that paved the way for future generations of female artists. Her 1982 track “Bam Bam,” built upon the classic “Stalag” riddim, has transcended genres and decades to become one of the most sampled and recognizable songs in reggae history. Despite its massive global impact, Sister Nancy only began to experience widespread recognition for “Bam Bam” years after its release, particularly after its inclusion in the film “Belly” and various advertising campaigns.
Her journey in the music industry has not been without its challenges, including battles for copyright and proper artist attribution. However, Sister Nancy has consistently advocated for her rights, highlighting the importance of artists receiving fair recognition for their work. Her debut solo album, “One Two,” released in 1982, remains a cornerstone of the Rub-A-Dub era and has recently seen reissues, underscoring her enduring relevance in the world of Jamaican music.
A Sonic Collaboration: Sister Nancy Meets Mad Professor
The collaboration with Mad Professor, born Neal Fraser in Guyana and based in the UK, brings together two titans of reggae and dub music. Mad Professor, a prolific producer, engineer, and founder of the Ariwa label, is celebrated for his innovative approach to dub, blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge digital technology. His extensive discography includes work with an array of international artists, from Sade and Massive Attack to Lee “Scratch” Perry, cementing his status as a dub master. This partnership promises a rich, immersive sonic experience, marrying Sister Nancy’s distinctive vocal delivery with Mad Professor’s signature dub soundscapes.
‘Armageddon’: A New Chapter
‘Armageddon,’ the upcoming full-length album, will feature eight tracks, offering fans new material from the iconic artist. This release follows an ‘Armageddon – EP’ that Sister Nancy and Mad Professor put out in 2021, which included the title track and “Runaway Slave.” The new album is slated for release on major streaming platforms and will also be available in vinyl format, catering to both modern listening habits and vinyl enthusiasts.
The announcement of ‘Armageddon’ arrives amidst a period of renewed appreciation for Sister Nancy’s contributions, with discussions of a forthcoming documentary exploring her career and impact. This new body of work signifies more than just a musical release; it represents a continuation of Sister Nancy’s powerful voice in the global music conversation, showcasing her ability to evolve while staying true to her roots.
Anticipation Builds for ‘Armageddon’
The news of Sister Nancy’s new album has generated significant excitement within the music community, particularly among fans of reggae and dub. Her consistent presence and influence on the genre, coupled with the esteemed production of Mad Professor, sets the stage for what is expected to be a landmark release. As October 3, 2025, approaches, the music world eagerly awaits ‘Armageddon,’ a testament to Sister Nancy’s indelible mark on music history and her ongoing artistic vitality.
This release further solidifies Sister Nancy’s position not just as a legendary figure from Jamaica, but as an artist whose music continues to resonate and inspire globally. Her journey, from the dancehall stages of Kingston to this new collaboration, is a compelling narrative within the broader story of reggae music’s international success and evolution.