Capleton Talks on His Early Struggles in Music and Ninjaman Using His Style – Listen Interview

December 19, 2023

Discussing his early struggles in the music industry in a recent interview, reggae veteran Capleton shared what motivated him to take on music full-time and reported that dancehall artiste Ninjaman stole his lyrics and style during his early career.

Known for his fiery onstage performances, Capleton has established himself as one of the reggae genre’s giants. But as with many artistes trying to make a name for themselves in music, the road to their success in the industry is not always straight and narrow.

Speaking on 104.9 FM, the artiste discussed being a positive role model for the younger generation and his decision to become a humanitarian and help others. Capleton, born Clifton Bailey, expressed that he chose to help others as blessings had been bestowed upon him.

Reflecting on his hardships, Capleton shared that while he was developing his career in reggae, he was employed in vastly different jobs, such as hand cart driving in Kingston and doing welding work at Caymanas Park. However, the That Day Will Come singer said he was motivated to delve into music full-time after Ninjaman allegedly began stealing his lyrics.

“Ninjaman steal mi lyrics and mi style [ … ] It is not an easy ting to hear yuh song playing all ova, and yuh melody and yuh pattern, and is not you doing it,” Capleton stated.

The artiste expressed that something like that can severely affect someone but appears to have no ill will against Ninjaman. Capleton went on to explain that the Murder Dem deejay opened his eyes to what the industry was like.

Capleton recalled a performance in 1989 when he, Ninjaman, and Shabba Ranks all took to the stage, but Ninjaman could not match their lyrical prowess. According to Capleton, Ninjaman began messing with the mixing keys to throw off his flow, but he was saved by his quick-witted lyrics.

Listen to the interview below.