Minister Tommy CCT

 

'Harvest of Plenty' should be mandatory listening for today's entitled youth. It will uplift anyone who has survived dire times to be renewed in the bounty of better days.
 

If one were to look closely, it would likely become evident before too long that there has always been a connection between the world of fashion and the world of music. That seems obvious on the face of it given the five-figure sartorial outlays the labels furnish to today's top stars, but we mean something deeper. Carlton Thomas (Minister Tommy CCT) was a fashion designer for over three decades, and it genuinely shows in the silky smooth layering of his sound, in the careful accessorizing of his soulful voice with choice instrumental accents, in the way it all hangs together like a well-tailored suit. Listen to 'Harvest of Plenty' and hear for yourself - we're betting you'll detect the same sensitivity to elegance and style. Independent reporter Lauren Thompson recently caught up with the charismatic musician to talk about his long history in music (forty+ years!), his life growing up in Jamaica, and his dreams and expectations for the years to come.

LAUREN: Let's just get this out in the open - What is the craziest thing that has happened to you in your music career?
TOMMY: To be used by a producer, to perform and not get paid, to see your music become a hit and not get any money.

LAUREN: Your song ‘Harvest Of Plenty' is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
TOMMY: Excited and happy knowing that there is hope and someone will be blessed with this song. This song encourages me.

LAUREN: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
TOMMY: Because of all the disappointments I faced in my life, I sat down one day and the Lord started to speak to me. And that’s how this song came to me.

LAUREN: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
TOMMY:Yes! I’ve been through turbulence. As a child growing up, there were times when I didn’t have food and the times when I did taste food, I cherished it. In my adult age, things were good, then rock bottom again, but I didn’t give up hope... I kept it alive.

LAUREN: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
TOMMY: Down-to-earth, fun and loving.

LAUREN:
TOMMY:

 

LAUREN: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
TOMMY: Yes! My brother sings very well and my parents sing in church.

LAUREN: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
TOMMY: The most rewarding thing is when you relate to your passion. The most challenging thing is to get airplay to reach the world.

LAUREN: Who are your role models in music?
TOMMY: Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Lionel Richie, Jim Reese and Mighty Diamond.

LAUREN: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
TOMMY: Yes! In 1976, G G Records Production put on a show in May Pen at the Crown Theater and I performed with my group with artists such as Maytone, Barbara Jones, Culture and Lloyd Parks.

LAUREN: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
TOMMY: Don’t stop, even when it seems like there is no hope. Trust God and keep on believing in yourself. You’re gonna make it with God by your side.

LAUREN: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
TOMMY: I am currently in the studio working on an album published by Tate Music Group. There are singles out there doing great and the album entitled ‘Harvest Of Plenty’ is online.

LAUREN: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us about your extensive career in music, the deprivations of youth that forged your attitude of appreciation and joy, and your hopes for the future. We are impressed by your talent and passion and expec

http://www.tommycct.net


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