Showing posts with label Roy Cape Allstars. Show all posts
Airing out someone's laundry is not always a cause for bacchanal unless it is dirty. Just a couple days ago Entertainment Macco heard a song from Slammer Cutter and the content made it necessary for us to approach him to get the "tory" on who's "Dirty Laundry" he was exposing in his new release. Slammer Cutter is best known for his songs "Hangover" and "D Fan" (collaboration with Kerwin Du Bois). Speaking of Kerwin Du Bois, after this interview we reached out to him to see if he would be interested in commenting on Slammer's Exposé but he declined. Here goes:
Entertainment Macco: Who is Slammer Cutter?
Slammer Cutter: "Slammer Cutter is Stephon Mark, a Trinidadian born artiste who now resides in Toronto. I am spontaneous, melodic and a lover of soca music, that's why I am trying to keep the flag flying."
Entertainment Macco: Explain the Sobriquet is there any significance?
Slammer Cutter: "The name came from going to school at Arima Comprehensive, they started calling me Slammer because of my flow and my lyrical ability and Cuter came because my mom lived overseas and I was always in the latest of everything so they had a saying "aye you does real cut it you know (meaning I was always in style)."
Entertainment Macco: Single/Married/In a relationship?
Slammer Cutter: "In a relationship...I am talking to someone *according to Canadians*
Entertainment Macco: Do you have any children?
Slammer Cutter: "No children but I definitely plan on having once I meet the person that I can settle down and spend the rest of my life with...I am big on family and I don't want to have kids out of wedlock and I don't believe in having children all over the place. I did not grow up in a nuclear family and I want to be able to offer my children stability and love."
Entertainment Macco: How long have you been in the music business?
Slammer Cutter: "I have been singing approximately 12 years but 6-7 years professionally."
Entertainment Macco: When did it all start for Slammer Cutter?
Slammer Cutter: "I would have to say at Arima senior comprehensive but professionally it started when I migrated to Toronto. I always had a strong love for music and I just wanted to push the culture further."
Entertainment Macco: How has your music been received?
Slammer Cutter: "It is being received well; both internationally and back home...my most successful year was in 2009 with "Hangover", my name got out and the song opened doors for me."
Entertainment Macco: Is your music well received in Canada?
Slammer Cutter: "Hangover was really appreciated and my music is being received well here. It was the acceptance for Hangover in Canada that caused a domino effect and I got into the trini market."
Entertainment Macco: Do you write your own music?
Slammer Cutter: "Yes I do...I try to get my inspiration from real life events that happen around me..if it does not really happen I can't write about it."
Entertainment Macco: Are you involved in any other aspects of the entertainment industry? If yes, what?
Slammer Cutter: "Other than performing, song writing and co writing, I am into promotions as far as the local scene is concerned..."
Entertainment Macco: So I heard your new song Dirty laundry and I just have to ask, what is that about?
Slammer Cutter: "Basically Dirty Laundry is me expressing myself and the frustration that I have faced thus far in the industry. What I addressed was one thing in particular and that was an issue with me and a certain producer.”
Entertainment Macco: Now I do not want to assume but it sounds as though you are referring to Kerwin Du Bois in this song, can you confirm or deny this?
Slammer Cutter: “Well Kerwin Du Bois did produce “Pavement” so if people do the research they will know it is him I am speaking about.”
Entertainment Macco: What has the response been like so far to Dirty Laundry?
Slammer Cutter: “To be honest the response has been overwhelming and as expected some people appreciate what I am saying and they are showing love and other are insulted or against what I am saying. A lot of dj's, radio personalities and supporters have been giving me feedback both negative and positive.”
Slammer Cutter: “I considered Kerwin Du Bois as a brother but over time that situation changed."
Entertainment Macco: What do you mean?
Slammer Cutter: “To be honest for the last couple of seasons I worked with him, he is a producer/artiste and I have been working with him for the last six years or so. He was responsible for my music and my name being called and probably for people taking my music seriously, because of this I was branded under his name. So when Hangover started getting real attention our relationship started changing and then I started hearing rumours about his feelings about my success. Then Kerwin started making “jokes” saying that he thought Hangover was getting too big and that he should get the song banned. Then about two weeks later, he came back telling me that a certain popular radio station in Trinidad banned the song. So of course I was asking why would they do something like that and he couldn’t answer me, he basically didn’t care.
Entertainment Macco: Ok I am following you, go ahead.
Slammer Cutter: “Right ... then for 2010 we had "D Fan" and the plan was for me to come Trini with him and perform with Roy Cape. The reason that arrangement was made was because Kerwin writes most of the songs for Roy Cape and he had an arrangement with them to perform with the band. I was looking forward to performing because that way people would have gotten to see me again after Hangover. That didn’t work out and again things started to go downhill because of Kerwin...”
Entertainment Macco: What do you mean by “things started to go downhill”?
Slammer Cutter: “Kerwin told me to come and practice with the band (Roy Cape) and I did that for three consecutive days but I never got the opportunity to practice with them, then just like that he told me that the band wasn’t learning the song again and basically he was not on me. He could not give me a straight answer as to what happened or why or anything of the sort he just brushed me off. From everything that he said to me, I saw that he initiated what happened to me.”
Entertainment Macco: Did you try talking to him about the issues you may have had with him?
Slammer Cutter: “Since this particular issue had occurred before I didn’t try to talk to him again, in the past we talk things out and moved forward but after getting slapped in the face twice there is nothing more to try. Our relationship is severed. I only have two cheeks and if you slap me on both of them I am not going to allow you to do it again.”
Entertainment Macco: Do you think this avenue was the best to take?
Slammer Cutter: “Yes”
Entertainment Macco: Why?
Slammer Cutter: “Because it is quite clear that there is nothing for us to talk about. This is a reoccurring problem and I had to let the fans and people in the music industry know what is happening and why they may not be hearing my music.”
Entertainment Macco: You think he might have been jealousy issue?
Slammer Cutter: “That is what is confusing me, he is the bigger artiste, he is more successful; more hits, more songs and he has experienced much more than me. There is no argument about who is more popular. I really cannot answer yes or no as far as jealousy is concerned. I would tell anyone without hesitating that he is very talented.”
Entertainment Macco: In Dirty Laundry you talked about someone wanting to commit suicide, a lot of people may think that was harsh, who were you talking about and why bring it up?
Slammer Cutter: “People did tell me that it was harsh but I needed to send a message that I was there with him from the start; before he popular, before his success. I treated him like a brother, so why kick me down? I was there through real harsh times; I played an active part in him getting his visa to come to Canada and the existence of his original studio. People need to know my side of the story. Every word and sentence was structured to make sense. Unfortunately it may come across as being harsh and insensitive but I felt that way when he decided to treat me the way that he did.”
Entertainment Macco: Does Kerwin have ownership of any of your music?
Slammer Cutter: “NO ... I paid for every single recording in full except for “D Fan” which we share 50/50 because we both wrote it.”
Entertainment Macco: What is the most frustrating thing about the music industry?Slammer Cutter: “The fact that after you put in so much time, money and effort to put out your music it is not appreciated by the people who control the industry, that is definitely the most frustrating thing as an artiste.”
Entertainment Macco: Would you say that Kerwin Du Bois contributed to your growth as an artiste?
Slammer Cutter: “Yes! Definitely! I always give respect where it is due and I learnt a lot from him, both positive and negative.”
Entertainment Macco: Wait a minute...tell me how Zuki and Tim Tim name reach in the mix?
Slammer Cutter: “I don’t even know who Zuki and Tim Tim are personally, if they stand next to me I won’t know, but their names call because they called my name in something they had in a magazine. I felt that I needed to address them in the song as well.”
Entertainment Macco: Being that you reside in Canada do you find it hard to get your music played in Trinidad?
Slammer Cutter: “It is very difficult because you are not there to mingle with the Djs and do the ground work that is necessary. Plus there are other artistes competing for the same spot you are fighting for. It is important to get your music heard because the majority of music coming out of Trinidad is rated as the best since it is the mecca of Carnival.”
Entertainment Macco: Do you think anyone has any of your laundry to air out?
Slammer Cutter: “I don’t think so. I always try to live right with everybody.”
Entertainment Macco: Okay but if they did how would you feel about someone doing it?
Slammer Cutter: “It depends on who does it, the reason and the message and knowing the person that I am, I will respond lyrically...I am that confident in my ability.”
Entertainment Macco: Are you worried about the consequences you may face, Kerwin Du Bois is quite popular in the music industry.
Slammer Cutter: “No ... I am aware of all the risks and what they are. To me getting my music across is worth the risk, I accept the risks and I will have to deal with any repercussions.”
Entertainment Macco: Truth? Do you have any Soca Fans, the set that are looking for a Soca man, to whine in a soca band?
Slammer Cutter: “No (haha) I appreciate all feedback ... Kerwin and I came up with the concept of groupies but we didn’t want to call her that because it is a little degrading so we called her a fan who likes the music more than an average fan. With me if you standing backstage with me you are not a fan it is on a personal level.”
Entertainment Macco: Truth? “doh take it on” do you live by that saying?
Slammer Cutter: “You must stress about some things but I don’t dwell on it I keep on moving.”
Entertainment Macco: Truth? How many “hangovers” have you had?
Slammer Cutter: “Wow! Too many, I am not a big drinker so after I drink like 4 or 5 beers I am gone.”
Entertainment Macco: What is the weirdest thing a fan has ever done to catch your attention?
Slammer Cutter: “Nothing actually but what is kind of awkward is when someone tries to talk to you like if they know you. Like if we were friends for years but I usually roll with the punches and make everybody feel welcomed.”
Entertainment Macco: If there was one thing you could change about the present state of the music industry, what would it be?
Slammer Cutter: “I would change the way that the industry operates and open up an avenue for new artistes so they could get an equal chance. It is very difficult for an artiste to progress in the industry because of the seasonality and those who do are the chosen few.”
Entertainment Macco: What advice would you give to upcoming artistes who may be based overseas and trying to make a name for themselves in their homeland?
Slammer Cutter: “Take pride in their work and ensure that the quality of music is up to standard. Don’t get discouraged because it is not an easy road to travel and remain persistent.”
Entertainment Macco: I know there are real life maccos out there, how do you plan on keeping your business and professional live separate and out of the mouths of the maccos?
Slammer Cutter: “My lives are separate at all times but the fact remains that when you agree to be an artiste you agree to let people into your life and you can’t switch it on and off, you just have to deal with it.”
Entertainment Macco: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Slammer Cutter: “This situation is an unfortunate one and I hope that no other artiste has to go through it. Everything I sang about is the truth. I didn’t do this for any airplay, fame or money, it was done because I believe in principle and I am willing to defend it. After this people may not hear another song from me because that is one of the risks involved.”
Entertainment Macco: Anything else?
Slammer Cutter: “I have a new song coming out called "More Rum in Meh Cup" and it is being done by Homebase Studios (Mr. Roots & Wayne Green) and I am working on some other tracks as well.”
Dirty Laundry - Slammer Cutter
With a name like "Trini", and daughter of soca ambassadors Carl and Carol Jacobs, there was no surprise when this young diva hit the stage some years ago pursing a music career. We have heard her sweet voice on collaborations with Machel Montano, Glen Washington, and Beenie Man and was a former front-line vocalist of Roy Cape All stars.
Photo Courtesy Trini Jacobs
Photography: Kerron RileyStylist: Kim Lee-Inniss
Entertainment Macco: Who is Trini Jacob?
Trini Jacobs: "Hmmm .. I am .. forever changing. From my personalities to my belief system, sometime I’m sure and sometime I am lost for words."Entertainment Macco: What is your sign/horoscope?
Trini Jacobs: "Cancer"
Entertainment Macco: Are you Single/In a relationship/Married?
Trini Jacobs: "Single most of the time ... as of lately"
Entertainment Macco: I know you do not have any children but do you plan on having any?
Trini Jacobs: "I am in the process of preparing to pop one out ;) ... you maccos"
Entertainment Macco: LOL.......*holding stomach*
Entertainment Macco: Is the name “Trini” any part of your given name? If not how did the name come about (other than the fact that you are “trini”)
Trini Jacobs: "It started with my first management team. They were all Jamaicans, I was the only ‘trini’ .. they made errors in spelling my real name incorrectly, so, I was called ’Trini”. I began to participate in TnT’s Carnival and Jacobs was simply added on to “Trini” , in order to connect me with my parents.. Carl and Carol Jacobs"
Entertainment Macco: How difficult was it to break out of you shy on-stage exterior and become the on-stage Trini you are today? (Yes the shyness showed on stage..it’s all good though)
Trini Jacobs: "I have no problem admitting how shy I was.. it was a very overwhelming feeling for me. But my experiences with Roy Cape Allstars really prepared me and taught me to be all that I grew to be on stage.. lol .. I still have alot to learn.."
Entertainment Macco: Well....once you are willing to learn you will continue to grow..
Entertainment Macco: It is public knowledge that you are no longer with Roy Cape and the Allstars (who doh know that by now living under a rock) are you happy with this decision?
Trini Jacobs: "Ummm, no. I was not ready to leave Roy Cape Allstars, I did put all my information and trust in the musical director of the band at that time, and he really made a mess as to what information he chose to give or share with the rest of the crew. This caused a whole misunderstanding and unfortunately I was fired. At the end of it , all that really mattered to me at the time was that Roy Cape himself (papi) knew that I would never willingly disrespect him, his name or his establishment. Life has moved us on.. But these were things I never got to tell him , simply because I never got a professional opportunity to speak on my behalf.. I’ve had a great year last year and a very interesting one this year(2010). I wish them all the best. I say thank you, for all the experiences and keep ‘doing yuh do’ P.S. Roy Cape Allstars is still one of my favourite sounding bands... the best actually... "
Entertainment Macco: Would you like to confirm or deny rumours that you were fired?
Trini Jacobs: "I was FIRED!!!!! Lmao ( i can laugh now) .. but had some real unsure times last year, but GOD is great!!
Entertainment Macco: I have been watching you and I am impressed with how you have grown as an artiste but what I am more impressed with is your image…you took it up a notch ent? Who or what is responsible for this drastic change?
Trini Jacobs: "I have opened my eyes to what fashion is now and I never limit myself or have fears about my stage image. Once I am comfortable within myself and I feel good.. It’s ‘on!!!’ I love fashion because it constantly changes and it never has to make sense."
Entertainment Macco: Do you think if your parents were not heavily involved in music that you would have pursued it as a career?
Trini Jacobs:"Well I can sing and I do love the sound of music. So it’s something that I know, based on my passion for music, which I would have ventured into regardless. My parents showed us how to manage and deal with the ups and downs of the business. We; my siblings and I, got first hand experiences from the hypocrites to the hypocrisies of the industry. We were taught to stay grounded and keep the love for music and the passion to create this music alive, regardless of the situation."
Entertainment Macco: SMH @ Hyprocrites and Hypocrisies
Entertainment Macco: I heard that you and are mom are really close…Is it that you share everything with her or there are stuff that you hide?
Trini Jacobs: "I can share and discuss everything with my mother. It doesn’t matter .. lol .. we talk about everything from sex, politics, religion or bachannal."
Entertainment Macco: Aunty Carol (I hope she does not mind me calling her that...) is a kewl mommy I see...
Entertainment Macco: What is your biggest turn on in the opposite sex? That one thing that does make you go da da dammmmn!!Trini Jacobs: "I can’t say that here...... It’s not a PG13 answer.."
Entertainment Macco:Well you know this is not a PG13 blog right? lol But i have a feeling the response is x-rated....lol
Entertainment Macco: What is the weirdest/funniest thing a man has ever done to get your attention/interest?
Trini Jacobs: "lol .. being Trini Jacobs, men do and say alot of crazy things. There’re so many that it keeps my line of work very amusing."
Entertainment Macco: When you were/are looking for a mate do/did u look for someone in the industry or out of the industry & why?
Trini Jacobs: "If I found a soul mate within the industry, it would have been nice. My life and the things that I have to do would have been easier understood. But out the industry is perfectly fine, once the chemistry, respect and love is there.."
Entertainment Macco: What is your idea of a perfect date? Create a picture for the maccos please :-)
Trini Jacobs: "I don’t know .. I love surprises. I’m very spontaneous and I’m not sure what a ‘perfect date’ is. Once I’m happy, smiling and comfortable with what’s going on. It’s perfect .. just keep me guessing."
Entertainment Macco: Are you a full-time artiste or do you hold down an 8-4 job?
Trini Jacobs: "8-4?? Uhhh no! Actually I love animals and I intend to do school part time, so that I can be Trini Jacobs and Dr. Jacobs .. Veterinary medicine that is."
Entertainment Macco: Ahha...I think I can see you in that field.... :-)
Entertainment Macco: In your industry what is your biggest pet peeve…that one thing that does real stress you out and send your pressure level up?
Trini Jacobs:"Hypocrisy used to really get to me, but I see around it now."
Entertainment Macco: What do you usually do when you are not recording/performing?
Trini Jacobs: "I’m loving..family and my hobbies."
Entertainment Macco: If you were not involved in music what do you think you would be doing?
Trini Jacobs:"On some billionaires yacht, sailing away somewhere..."
Entertainment Macco: *Chokes* Haha....Keep them coming Trini...keep 'em coming
Entertainment Macco: What is your best attribute, or have been told is?
Trini Jacobs: "How well I function under pressure."
Entertainment Macco: If there was one thing you could change about your physical features what would it be and why?
Trini Jacobs: "My nail polish, simply because every colour does not match.. duh!!"
Entertainment Macco: lmaoooooooooooooooooo Stop it.. *puts on serious face*
Entertainment Macco: What is your irresistible temptation?
Trini Jacobs: "Arabian food and a fine man."
Entertainment Macco: *High five @ Fine man...."
Entertainment Macco: What is your absolute favourite possession, one that you find it so hard to part with?
Trini Jacobs: "Hmmm will have to say, I don’t know!"
Entertainment Macco: What is your personal credo?
Trini Jacobs: "How much patience I have."
Entertainment Macco: The person you admire the most and why?
Trini Jacobs: "GOD and Beyonce. They’re everything i wish to be in different ways."
Entertainment Macco: Interesting....
Entertainment Macco: For Carnival 2010 although you were not seen much, I recognized that your style of music has changed a bit, what caused this?
Trini Jacobs:"I don’t know. I was inspired and I wrote to suite.. It’s only my second year writing my own music. Can be a bit tricky at times."
Entertainment Macco: I am sure you will figure it out soon enough....perfect the craft.....
Entertainment Macco: When you die, what memory would you like to leave behind?
Trini Jacobs:"I want to be remembered as a woman who loved her life, loved her craft, loved her family dearly, very happy at heart and regardless of the degree of the external success, her main love was for simply being alive, healthy and capable".
Entertainment Macco: I know there are real life maccos out there, how do you keep your personal life off the streets and separate from you business life?
Trini Jacobs: Now why will I tell you all the secret to that???
Entertainment Macco: Here we go again....lol...Thank you Trini!! :-)
