It was in 2001 when Gemma’s career took to a supersonic path to success as she joined Middle Row Records and released ‘So Messy’ to the masses. It was quickly picked up by BBC 1Xtra, stamping it as a huge hit which went on to sell thousands of units, catapulting her into the mainstream and planting her victory flag firmly on the block where it remains flying proud to this day. In 2002 Gemma signed to the legendary Polydor Records and embarked on a journey of putting pen to paper for her debut and much anticipated album. The album, entitled ‘Messy’, featured collaborations with artists such as J2K, Rodney P, Jim Jones, MC Lyte and Juelz Santana. The album went on to receive huge acclaim and was awarded multiple 5 star reviews from the likes of Hip Hop Connection, DJ, Touch and RWD. Gemma was ranked number 10 in the BBC Chart “Who to Watch”, she performed on MTV’s “Brand Spanking New” alongside J2K and Rodney P, Popworld and BBC 1Xtra Live at Maida Vale. The years that followed saw Gemma busy with worldwide tours, a performance in Ibiza for Puff Daddy’s party, jetting out to Greece with Rodney P and DJ Samari. She featured on FHM’s charity single with fellow artists Liberty X, Atomic Kitten, Naomi Campbell, Jodie Marsh and Sophie Anderton. Gemma headed back into the studio and began kicking out hit after hit that went on to see her nominated for a MOBO in 2004 and winning Best R&B Act at the 2005 UMA Awards and Best Female Act at the Y2K Awards in the same year.