Biography
Sandra “Dhaima” Matthews was a singer, songwriter, and visual artist whose career bridged Nashville soul, American songwriting, and Jamaican reggae. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, she began writing songs as a child and entered the music business at the age of twelve after presenting her songwriting to executives at Tree Publishing, where legendary producer and publisher Buddy Killen recognized her talent. Matthews first gained national attention as a member of the Columbia Records vocal group The Buttons, produced by Carl Davis. Recording under the name Sandra Matthews, the group released songs including Shimmy Shimmy Watusi, Foot Stompin’ U.S.A., and Pretty Li’l Lovelights. During this early period she also worked with a young guitarist named Jimi Hendrix, who performed and arranged with the group before achieving international fame. Later performing under the name Dhaima, she expanded her career internationally through reggae music. In Jamaica she recorded with legendary producer Joe Gibbs, releasing songs such as Ina Jah Children and the duet A True with reggae icon Dennis Brown, both of which gained international recognition. In addition to music, Dhaima was also an exhibiting visual artist and founder of the nonprofit Mommies Making Magic, dedicated to supporting single-parent families. Her catalog and artistic legacy are now preserved and administered by Dhaima Sandra Matthews Legacy LLC.