Mrs. Claudette V. Kemp, the late manager of renowned Rastafarian entertainer Capleton, was laid to rest today (Wednesday, July 19) at an emotional funeral service held at the Boulevard Baptist Church in Kingston.
The service was attended by several notable figures from the entertainment and music fraternity, paying their final respects to one of the industry’s most respected luminaries.
Mrs. Kemp, who passed away on June 9 after battling kidney-related complications, was a trailblazing female manager in the Jamaican music industry. In 2019, she received the prestigious Queen of Reggae Island Honorary Award for her outstanding contributions. As Capleton’s manager for over 22 years, she played a pivotal role in his career and witnessed his growth as an artist.
Capleton, also known as King Shango, approached Mrs. Kemp in 1994 with an offer to manage him, which she initially declined. However, she eventually embraced the opportunity six years later. Throughout their professional journey, she became not only his manager but also his second mother. Capleton expressed his deep grief over her passing, highlighting her exceptional managerial skills and unwavering support for his family and friends. He acknowledged her role in organizing his annual charity show, “A St Mary Mi Come From,” and expressed eternal gratitude for her unwavering dedication.
The Jamaican music industry mourns the loss of Mrs. Claudette V. Kemp, a remarkable manager whose contributions will forever be cherished. Her legacy and her impact on the reggae and dancehall community will be remembered with profound respect and admiration.