Interview: Popcaan’s brother Squidell gives a deep dive into music industry dynamics in his new book "Essential Notes: A Glimpse of the Reality of the Music Industry"
Damonie "Sqidell" Wilson, hopes to start a trend with his new book
Atlantic Records music executive Damonie Wilson, better known as Squidell and also recognized as Popcaan's older brother and former manager, has now added "author" to his list of accomplishments with the release of his debut book, "Essential Notes: A Glimpse of the Reality of the Music Industry", on May 28th.
The book quickly sold out in Jamaica by the second day of its release. On Amazon, it peaked at number 10 in the business music books category and number 33 in the music reference books category. "I've shared numerous stories about people I’ve worked with directly and indirectly", he described.
"Firstly, I hope to start something that will eventually become a trend. When you look at other genres, you see books coming out from artists, managers, producers, and even people who are simply close to the scene," said Squidell. "We as industry players have relied solely on stage shows or dubplates to earn an income. We need to diversify. We need more movies, books, and documentaries," added the St. Thomas native entrepreneur to Kaboom Magazine.
"There aren't many books on Jamaican music or from insiders within the industry. Fans perceive the industry in a certain way without understanding the challenges. For decades, artists and producers have fallen into the same traps because they are not privy to the information and mistakes of their predecessors."
Squidell delves into what readers can find in the book. "This is not a tell-all book where I'm going to reveal some deep, dark secrets about anything or anyone. I'm not looking to make headlines on any media platform. But to answer your question more directly, there are many of us suffering from mental health issues," he expressed. "I stress the need to change our legacy. I want individuals to look at where they are and honestly evaluate if they have riches now or after. If something should happen to you today, can those around you or who depend on you continue to live as they do now?".
Reflecting on his experience since joining Atlantic Records, Squidell acknowledges, "Everything is done on a more pragmatic level compared to how we do business in Jamaica."
"When you look at other genres, you see books coming out from artists, managers, producers, and even people who are simply close to the scene".
As an A&R, Squidell is also involved in scouting musical talents in Jamaica. While he doesn't reveal any names, he admits to recommending some of them. "There are so many. I won't share any names, but I will say this: our downfalls and how far our careers reach are due to our thinking."
Trying to make his own mark on the industry, Wilson shared, "To be honest, I am just working and pursuing my personal goals. I'm not striving to become a philanthropist or mogul. If those things happen to follow, then so be it. I love my people, music, and culture, and I would just love to see us grow."
تعليقات