When I signed to Sony Music in the early nineties it was my dream come true. I was both thrilled and terrified about what was expected of me especially as I was naturally a very shy person.
During the promotion of my first album I found myself in situations that were new to me, where I needed confidence, courage, bravery and self belief. I would often say to myself, "Come on Des’ree you’ve got to be bold, you’ve got to be wise, you’ve got to be tough". These words turned into an affirmation, which then turned into a song.
Growing up for a brief, very inspiring time in Barbados. I was exposed to Calypso music which I loved, especially the melodies and clever lyrics. ‘You Gotta Be’, has a subtle caribbean feel to it, both in the music and the positive sentiment.
Ashley Ingram, a very talented musician and producer arranged the music around the song. We had a great time recording it in the studio and really loved the finished song.
It was my love for music that powered me through, along with a great team of professionals. Even when I listen to ‘You Gotta Be’ now, it still gives me goose-bumps.
I am so happy ‘Big Sing’ are using it and cannot wait to hear one million children singing it for such worthwhile causes.
Thank you!
Des’ree
2008
On the 27th November 2008 at 2:45pm, live from the O2 Arena in London, the "Big Sing" returns to every school throughout the UK. With your support we aim to break our existing 2005 Guinness World Record of 293,978 children all singing with the stars simultaneously, by reaching the ONE MILLION CHILDREN mark.
2005
We were challenged to attempt to beat the then World Record of 83,637 young voices singing simultaneously. This attempt was to become known as the BIG SING.
Joss Stone and Lemar headed the all star lineup that kicked off the BIG SING attempt from the Royal Albert Hall at 2:45PM on December 8th 2005.
