Party Animal causing a stir in SVG

A wall of controversy has risen up surrounding the crowning of Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James as the 2007 Road March king.

The winning song, “Party Animal”, carries a sample of a 1980’s ‘Zouk’ beat made popular by French group Kassav.{{more}}

A number or persons in and out of the music industry have voiced their dissatisfaction that the song, mainly because of its “lack of originality”, could be recognized as the most popular song in the just concluded 30th anniversary of Vincy Mas.

Searchlight contacted producer Adrian Bailey, who worked on one of this country’s biggest hits to date: Kevin Lyttle’s “Turn Me On”, which also contains a sample, for his take on the issue.

According to Bailey, while he has no problem with the artiste and does not deny the song was indeed the most popular song of the carnival season, he believes that a level of originality in the Road March should be established, as this is the song which will be recognized the most on the international scene.

Bailey thinks that the international community will be more drawn to the beat, than the lyrical content. In essence, more attention will be directed to Kassav than Problem Child.

He said that he has no problem with sampling, as long as international standards are observed, and is concerned that there might be negative repercussions.

Bailey also fears that unless a rule is put place concerning sampling, local producers may become complacent and sway towards popular beats instead of originality.

Bailey hopes that lessons will be learnt, and that artistes and producers would strive for more creativity in their respective art forms.

Speaking to the man at the centre of the ‘controversy’ at his New York home, James is at a loss as to what the problem is.

“Everyone is entitled to their opinion and I respect that” he said. “But I didn’t enter the Road March competition, it was the people’s choice.”

He said that the response to the song has been overwhelming, and that the criticism – both positive and negative has been an eye opener for him, and thanked all who supported him in his accomplishment.

He said that international standards were followed in relation to sampling, and wonders if there would have been any talk if he had not won.

When it comes to originality, James said that critics should take a look at his rap sheet, which contains songs like “Galaritis”, “Friends with Benefits” and “Secret Agent”.

He said most people are afraid of change, and that all standards, whether local or international, must change.

The UPS delivery worker said that he has not heard any complaints as yet outside of St. Vincent, and he has been booked to perform in Montreal, Toronto, London, New York and Germany.

James, before heading back to New York, donated part of his carnival earnings to this country’s School for Children with Special Needs and the Salvation Army.

Chief Executive Officer of the Carnival Development Corporation Ashford Wood, commenting on the issue, said that a song being named the Road March does not necessarily make it the best song of the carnival, but rather the most requested song on the road for J’Ouvert, Monday jump up and Mardi Gras.

Wood stated that the rules concerning the Road March state that the song must be the most popular on the road, and the singer must be Vincentian.

He added that for any amendment to be made, the CDC must have consultation in a public forum.

Giving his personal opinion, Wood believes that too many rules around a people’s choice category would only complicate things.