We were lucky to catch up with Germaine Clarke recently and have shared our conversation below.

Germaine, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to start by getting your thoughts on what you are seeing as some the biggest trends emerging in your industry

In the dynamic world of music, 2023 has been marked by the profound influence of Artificial Intelligence. Independent artists, free from the constraints of major music labels, are harnessing the internet, social media, and AI to craft distinctive sounds and rhythms. But with great power comes great responsibility, and the integration of AI in music has sparked both opportunities and significant concerns.

**TikTok, Tempo, and Tunes:**
The digital age has seen a surge in TikTok dances, with tracks being altered in tempo, either sped up or slowed down, resonating with a new generation of listeners. This trend has birthed a unique form of music appreciation, where the pace of a song can be as adaptable as the dance moves it inspires.

**Sampling the Past:**
Sampling has made a comeback, with artists drawing from the iconic tunes of the ’90s and early 2000s. Burna Boy’s “Last Nights” brilliantly samples Toni Braxton’s “Man Enough,” while Nadg’s “We a Run E Grung” takes inspiration from Busta Rhymes’ “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See.” These tracks, infused with contemporary beats, are captivating both new listeners and those reminiscing about the past.

**The AI Controversy:**
AI’s integration into music isn’t without its challenges. The AI rendition of a track that wasn’t authentically produced by the artist it was attributed to has raised eyebrows and concerns. A notable instance is when a song went viral on TikTok, leading to its release on platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube. This move prompted Universal Music Group, representing artists like Drake and The Weeknd, to highlight the dangers of AI in music. James Murtagh-Hopkins, UMG’s senior vice president of communications, stated:

*”UMG’s success has been due to embracing new technology for our artists. However, training generative AI using our artists’ music breaches our agreements and violates copyright law. This situation forces us to question where stakeholders in the music ecosystem stand: supporting artists, fans, and human creativity, or endorsing deep fakes and denying artists their rightful compensation. Platforms have a responsibility to prevent misuse that harms artists. We’re encouraged by our platform partners’ engagement on these issues, recognizing they need to be part of the solution.”*

Looking Ahead:
The future of music is a blend of digital innovation, genuine connections, and a touch of nostalgia. Independent artists are at the forefront, using platforms to connect directly with fans. But let’s not forget, while AI might be making waves, engineers and producers like me are still very much in demand. After all, AI might be smart, but it can’t quite capture the quirks and whims of human creativity. So, until robots start cracking jokes and dancing off-beat, I’d say our jobs are pretty secure!

Germaine, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Blaqk Sheep, a force to be reckoned with in the reggae and dancehall scene. Born in the rhythmic heart of Jamaica, I’ve been crafting beats that have resonated across the globe.

My Musical Legacy:
I’ve had the honor of producing and engineering tracks that have hit the top of the charts. Some highlights include Busy Signal’s “Praise & Worship” and “Da Style Deh,” RDX’s “Grab,” and my work with Major Lazer on tracks like “Lose Yourself” and “Sounds of Siren.” My expertise doesn’t stop at producing; I’ve also been the mastering engineer behind hits like Drizl’s “Mood Swings” and Qraig Voicemail’s “Believe.”

Collaborations:
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with a galaxy of stars, from Busy Signal, Spice, and Alkaline to international icons like Vybz Kartel and Beenie Man. My work has even caught the attention of the Grammys, with considerations for albums like “Truthful Riddim” and Sizzla’s “Rise Up.”

Venturing Beyond:
While my roots are in Jamaica, my music has taken me on tours across continents. From the Americas to Europe and Africa, I’ve shared my beats and rhythms in countries like the USA, Canada, Kenya, France, Germany, and many more.

Looking Ahead:
Recently, I’ve explored a new genre with my albums “Motivational Blueprint” and “Affirmations for Unstoppable Motivation.” It’s spoken word, a fresh avenue for me, and I’m thrilled with the journey so far.
As the music landscape continues to evolve, the essence and soul behind every beat remain irreplaceable. That’s where dedicated producers like me step in. I’m here, committed to crafting sounds that resonate, ensuring the heart of the music always shines through. Join me on this musical journey, and let’s create magic together!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

My deep passion for music, consistent collaboration with top artists, and a unique blend of traditional reggae with modern influences have been pivotal in building my reputation in the market

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Early in my career, I faced a major setback when a project I had poured months into was suddenly shelved due to unforeseen circumstances. It was a collaboration with several artists, and the anticipation was high. The disappointment was palpable, not just for me but for everyone involved. However, instead of letting this derail my passion and drive, I used it as a learning experience. I channeled my energy into understanding the industry better, refining my skills, and building stronger relationships with artists and stakeholders. Within a year, I bounced back with a track that not only topped the charts but also became one of the defining pieces of my career.
This experience taught me that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. My resilience, combined with my passion for music, ensured that I didn’t let one failure define my journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blaqksheeponthebeat
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blaqksheepmusic
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaqksheepmafia
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/blaqksheepmusic
• Other: https://audiomack.com/blaqksheepmusic/