Judy Boucher facts for kids

Judy Boucher is a talented singer from the Caribbean island of St. Vincent. She is known for her reggae and R&B music. Her first solo song, "Dreaming of a Little Island," became very popular in 1985. She is most famous for her worldwide hit song "Can't Be with You Tonight." This song reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart in April 1987.

Judy Boucher's Music Journey

Starting Her Solo Career

Judy Boucher first sang in her brother's band, called Judy Jack and the Beanstalk. Later, she decided to become a solo artist, singing on her own. Her music career really took off around the 1970s.

In 1985, a songwriter named Felix Da Silva needed someone to sing his songs. Judy Boucher recorded several of them. One of these songs was "Dreaming of a Little Island." This song became a number one hit on the reggae music charts. It was even used as the theme song for the Jamaica Tourist Board!

The Big Hit: "Can't Be with You Tonight"

After the success of "Dreaming of a Little Island," an album was released. It was called Can't Be with You Tonight. This album helped Judy become an international star by the end of 1987. The main song from the album, "Can't Be with You Tonight," was released as a single. It quickly became a huge hit all over the world in 1987. It even reached number 2 in the UK music charts.

A TV exercise instructor named Lizzie Webb heard the song. She loved it and decided to use it for her exercise routines. People in the UK started asking about the song. Because so many people wanted it, Judy's producer officially released it. This was Judy's first time having a song on the national music charts. The song almost reached number one, but it stayed at number 2 for four weeks in the UK. It was also a big hit in many other countries. These included the Netherlands, Ireland, Switzerland, France, Greece, Spain, and the Philippines.

Touring the World

One of the most memorable parts of Judy's career was her tour in Belgium. At one concert, 40,000 people were there. They held up lighted candles and chanted "Judy Boucher" as she sang. It was an amazing experience!

She also received a surprising call from South Africa. They told her she was a huge hit there. She visited South Africa, but due to a boycott at the time, she couldn't perform. However, she was invited to tour other African countries. She visited Swaziland, Namibia, and more. She appeared on TV, radio, and performed in clubs. People were incredibly excited to see her. They even brought her gifts like animals, gold, and clothes!

Her next song, "You Caught My Eye," was another national hit. It reached number 18 in the UK charts. Judy also toured the Middle East, visiting places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. After a busy few years, Judy took a break from music in 1988-1989. She returned in late 1989 with a new record company and producer.

Achievements and Recognition

Judy Boucher holds a special record. She was the first female singer from the Caribbean to have a song stay on the national charts for a long time. Her song was on the charts for fourteen weeks in 1987.

Because of her success, the government of St. Vincent invited Judy Boucher as a special guest. She is still considered an ambassador for her home country. This means she represents St. Vincent to the world.

Judy Boucher's Music

Albums Released

Here are some of the albums Judy Boucher has released:

Popular Singles

Here are some of Judy Boucher's single songs: