10 Questions With Reggae Artist Claudius “Supa” England
Known for his smooth, lifting voice Claudius “Supa” England is an amazingly talented Reggae artist to watch. He has been recognized on the international stage and has toured Europe and the Caribbean among other places. Supa has collaborated with the likes of Prodigal Son and Kevin Downswell.
Claudius believes in people walking in their purpose along with using his music as a positive influence. You can hear it in his music and see it in his initiative “Reclaimed Territory”. Claudius’ debut album SUPA with legendary Jamaican producer Dean Fraser and Duane Stephenson was released in 2020.
You are from Montego Bay tell us more about yourself and your childhood? How was your move to the big city of Kingston?
Ironically, even though I am known as a Montegonian, I was born in Mandeville, Jamaica. I spent the first couple of days of my life there before heading to Montego Bay as my father was from the second city.
Does producing, writing, singing, gospel songs come naturally to you?
Yes, it comes naturally but only after years of growing my craft I have become much better at production. However, even though it comes naturally now, there are days when l don’t feel inspired but once I get into the studio and sit for 10 minutes while listening to some good old school music then I am inspired. Lol that quickly.
As it relates to gospel songs, I have always sung about my faith in my repertoire over the years. It keeps me grounded. I must add that I also do lots of social commentary in my music.
Love 101 FM, Jamaica’s Christian radio station, named you among a list of artists to watch, how does this make you feel?
It is a very proud feeling. To see an audience of people admire the music I do gives me the drive to do more, be more focused, and appreciative of my talent.
What was it like being listed among the lineup in the Jamaica jazz and blues festival?
To be on the lineup for Jazz and Blues is a great opportunity for any artist. This was a great accomplishment for me, especially so early in my career. Sharing the same night and stage with Chronixx, Romain Virgo, Dionne Warrick, John Legend, Monica, to name a few was great motivation.
Name some of the acts with which you have collaborated with?
Legendary producer and saxophonist Dean Fraser, singer-songwriter Duane Stephenson, LastXCall out of Toronto, Ugochi out of Chicago, some gospel artist out of Jamaica: Prodigal Son, Jason Mighty, Kevin Downswell and more.
Which artist do you look forward to working with in the future?
Buju Banton, Damian Marley, Busy Signal, and Lecrae
You visited the United Kingdom for spring break, what was it like, did you meet a lot of fans? Are you planning any tour soon?
Well actually, the UK visit was a part of Claudius England’s Reclaimed Territory Tour which is an international initiative where we go into the schools, prisons, community centres teaching all ages to unearth their potential through music, discussions and writing exercises. To find out more please visit: www.reclaimedterritory.com.
The UK Tour began in 2015 and happens every September and October. October is Black History Month in the UK. Unfortunately, we were unable to go in 2020 as Covid had us all lockdown. We do have plans for 2021, stay tuned!
Over the years and touring, I have developed a fan base from nursery to elderly which has taught me a lot. The tour is jammed packed with morning, afternoon, and evening events. The experience was great to explore the different cultures, food and people.
Who is your most famous Jamaican and why?
Bob Marley, because of his international impact.
Do you consider yourself a music minister? Do you carry out the will of the Savior Christ as you spread your words across the world?
I used to label myself as a music minister/gospel artist. After traveling around the world and visiting other people’s cultures, faiths, and backgrounds, I have now evolved my title to just international reggae artist as this isn’t a turn off to people who don’t believe what I believe. I would see myself more as a music messenger who sings about my faith.
You sport dreadlocks as style, would you describe yourself as a Rastafarian?
No, I am not a Rastafarian. Based on my faith I believe in Jesus Christ so people would call me Christian. I sport locks because it represents my roots which is an Afrocentric culture.
Will you be releasing any new music soon?
I am working on a couple of projects right now. In 2020 I dropped “SUPA” and 2021 “The Message”. Working on videos, production and other talents for our label. Working on more revolutionary music which is aimed at empowering while encouraging black people to unite.