On Friday night, veteran entertainer Capleton confirmed the passing of his long-time manager and close friend, Mrs. Claudette Kemp. Prism Marketing Consultants understands she died Thursday evening after a prolonged illness with kidney issues.
In an Instagram post featuring a photo of Capleton and Kemp, the artist wrote a heartfelt caption, expressing his grief and appreciation for his manager. He stated, “Today is one of the hardest days of my life as I grieve the loss of my 2nd mom, great friend & 1 of the best managers ‘Mrs. Claudette Kemp.’ She trod on to Zion yesterday and is deeply missed, loved & appreciated.”
Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Capleton shared, “I knew Mrs. Kemp for 30+ years, and we initially signed a 1-year management agreement in June 2002. She was very intelligent, supportive, loyal, with a 43+ year music career and managed me for 21+ years. We were very close, and people called me her son. There are few female managers in the music industry, but Ms. Kemp was loved & highly respected by the Rasta community, music producers, promoters, media, and fans worldwide.”
Expressing gratitude for her pivotal role in his career, Capleton emphasized, “Mrs. Kemp operated my annual charity show (A St Mary Mi Come From) and was also supportive to my family and friends too. No matter if it was a business or personal issue, such as the loss of my mother in 2020, I could always rely on Ms. Kemp to help me. She was always there during my trials & triumphs, and I will forever be grateful. Condolence to her family & give thanks for all your thoughts & prayers. JAH Bless.”
Mrs. Claudette Kemp, who received the Queen of Reggae Island Honorary Award in 2019, was one of the few female managers in the music industry. She had managed the “Fireman” entertainer for more than 22 years. Capleton, also known as King Shango, is widely recognized as one of reggae and dancehall’s most notable figures, with his distinctive fashion, high-energy performances, and expansive catalogue.
According to Kemp, managing a reggae artist was never on her list of things to do. Capleton first approached her to be his manager in 1994, but she declined. However, six years later, she had a change of heart when he approached her again. Over the years, she witnessed Capleton mature and grow both as an artist and a professional, leaving a lasting impact on his career.
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