US teen Iliana Eve tackles child abuse in song

At just 14 years old, one might think that budding American teen star Iliana Eve might be shooting above her weight with her latest track, Mommy.

But with the issue of child abuse being topical worldwide, the song could strike the right note with local audiences, maybe even more so because of her age.

Produced by Kemar 'Flava' McGregor of FM Records, whose credits include reggae and international stars, the pop-flavoured song is, unfortunately, based on a real-life situation that affected the teenager.

Having experienced abuse on a personal level, Iliana's delivery of the song's poignant lyrics offers tangible, heartfelt therapy and encouragement for those being similarly affected, not just in Jamaica, but worldwide.

The song, too, is bound to draw comparisons to Queen Ifrica's 2007 number, Daddy, also produced by McGregor and which created its fair share of controversy then.

"For a 14-year-old girl talking about this topic, I think this will make a huge difference, and young people her age won't be afraid to come out and speak on this issue if it's happening to them or someone they know," said McGregor.

He continued, "The topic of this song represents a serious problem that is taking place all over the world in many homes, communities and schools, and a lot of adults and children know of these abuses, but are afraid to come forward. I am looking forward for this song to be released and make a difference in our society by empowering people not to be afraid to report these abuses."

Mommy, which is scheduled for international release on April 21 on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify, comes 10 years since Queen Ifrica's Daddy raised eyebrows because of its direct focus on the topic of child abuse. Mommy promises no less of an impact.

Iliana and her sister, DJ Hannahbella, will release their debut album, Daddy Issues, later this year.

Iliana Eve hails from Texas, but is now living in Kentucky. She has been singing professionally since last year, when she debuted with a single titled Letters, through Snoop Dogg's label, Doggy Style Records.

The impact of Letters and the follow-up track, Long Damn Time, saw her being featured in media outlets such as Billboard and BET.