The 3rd annual Caribbean Cultural Conference began with an insightful discussion on issues surrounding the production of caribbean music. The panel of experts included, recording artist and producer Ed Robinson, Grammy award winning mix engineer, James Bonzai Caruso, and artist and producer, Shawn Da Ma$tamind Noel. The discussion was moderated by Simone Harris of 360ARTISTS.
Critical discussion points included the following:
- the role of the Producer in the region has evolved “negatively” resulting in a mass of individuals being called “producers” but who lack for the most part the skills and know how needed to produce a high quality record.
- ongoing issue of access in the region. Access to updated equipment, education, needed to be able to create music that is at the final stage – globally competitive.
- no ready access to music production schools, and institutes locally
- the advent of technology and the internet has been “a blessing and a curse” (Ma$tamind). It has made the production process easier BUT the consequence has been that the creative process has been “watered down” resulting in music that lacks ability to be viable in marketplace beyond local supporters of the artist.
- lyrical content is a problem across the region.
The discussion also touched on other areas of the business including marketing and promotions. Some attendees argued that a major problem for the region is a lack of avenue for exposure after the record is created. Others argued that the lyrical content is such a major problem that the music cannot become a viable product globally because of that. Some attendees believed though that despite the lyrical content, with the right marketing a song can become a “hit”
It was clear at the end of the discussion that most agreed that the region needs more institutions focused on creative development not just for performers but for those who share in the creative process including producers.
