Kalpee: "The universe doesn’t put before us anything that we can’t handle"

What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?

There is a track on my current EP Feel Good Playlist Vol1 called ‘Climb' which is really special to me. It’s the first track I wrote after I had a life-threatening car accident in September 2019 while on set of my music video for the track Paramin High (off the EP Home: released 01.2020).

I wrote and performed the track with another Trinbagonian group called Freetown Collective which is so apt as these guys have been my mentors and inspiration for many years, so stepping back into the studio after so many months of not being able to walk let alone sing was comforting with my brothers supporting me.

As we were shooting a music video at the time, we later discovered that partial footage from the accident had been captured on camera, and so as hard as it may sometimes be to relive it, I’m releasing this footage within the official music video to ‘Climb' in January 2021.

I feel that this is the last step of my recovery process to share, which celebrates the blessing of overcoming such a challenging time is my life.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

I’d say getting the opportunity to go to Sweden to work in the music industry over there. That has really been the stepping stone in my career when it comes to songwriting and producing.

If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?

Not one thing. I am a believer that everything happens for a reason no matter how unfortunate or tough that may be, and that the universe doesn’t put before us anything that we can’t handle, but challenges us with what it feels we can overcome.

What do you hope to achieve that you haven’t yet?

Like any other emerging artist I suppose recognition for what it is that I am working towards would be my next achievement. I’d love to do a headline tour, (or any live shows tbh since COVID) win awards, I have a five year plan for my first Grammy (gotta dream big) and I’d like to work with other artist writing and producing for them.

I find working with others really helps me to grow and I love to learn. I’m constantly watching documentaries or YouTube videos to expand my knowledge.

Outside of your family, who is / was your biggest inspiration?

As of right now, Carla Marie Williams is my role model, I’ve been given the opportunity to work with her and she has given me so much amazing advice with regards to my artistry, writing, production and music history.

Our conversations are filled with invaluable gems of knowledge that I am so grateful for and she continues to be an advocate in helping to push Caribbean creatives to the forefront of the industry, which I respect tremendously.

Tell us something nobody knows about you…

When I was younger I had the best swimming stroke in my whole entire school but because I was and still am so meticulous, I wasn’t very fast and used to come in second to last lol!

Style

What’s your favourite item of clothing – and what does it mean to you?

A good fitting pair of jeans (I like Jlindeberg Jeans as they fir so well). The thing is with jeans you can dress them up or down so they suit multiple occasions.

Favourite accessory – watch / jewellery / etc – and why is it special to you?

I love all accessories in general as I feel they can make an outfit pop, but if I had to choose it would be necklaces. Even if I’m not really feeling an outfit I just layer up some necklaces and that can make a real difference.

What items do you take on holiday and why?

My Beats pill. Music sets or fixes the vibe to so many scenarios.

I love finding beautiful spots when I’m in new countries where I can sit and take in the sights listening to some great tunes.

Is there an item you threw away – or lost – that you really miss?

My grandmother’s ring. I actually lost it after a bad car accident that I had and although I was major grateful for my recovery I always wonder what happened to that ring.

What’s next on your shopping list?

It’s a long list lol... I love shopping but I’m very particular with what I buy. I always prefer to wait and get the best version of what I want then get something straight away. Next though a new phone.

What would you buy if money was no object?

Every single plug In that I could, so I would be spoilt for choice when producing.

Feel Good Playlist Vol.1 (Stripped Sessions) EP is out now