Vinton Ollivierre, known in the music world as Hunta Flow, embarked on his journey as a musical producer not just for the love of soca but to address a pressing issue he observed in the industry. At the time, many artists were recording on unoriginal compositions, which motivated Vinton to step in and make a difference. His childhood was deeply influenced by the works of Moby and Enya, renowned composers and singers whose music captivated him and inspired his path.
Producing a soca track, Vinton learned, could be a painstaking or swift process, heavily dependent on the artist’s experience. He typically requested artists to send a demo, either written or recorded, allowing him to make preliminary adjustments. The journey from practice to perfection could span weeks, months, or even years, with constant minor adjustments in the studio as new ideas flowed.
To infuse a Caribbean flavor into a song, Vinton often recommended the use of the steel pan, an instrument that brings an exotic and traditional vibe to the music. However, staying relevant in the soca business presented its own challenges. Rapidly changing trends required him to balance innovation with the genre’s roots. Additionally, financial constraints often hindered the quality of production and marketing efforts, as music production is far from cheap.
Despite the digital era’s advancements simplifying and speeding up the production process, Vinton believed that live instruments would never be rendered obsolete. The authentic sound of live music always held a special place, even as digital tools provided more options. Unfortunately, not all producers could afford the luxury of hiring musicians, given the associated costs.
The soca genre’s continuous evolution with different sounds and fusions made it challenging to pinpoint future trends. However, Vinton’s career reached a memorable milestone in 2018 with the success of his production, “The Stationery Riddim.” This achievement propelled him from a local producer to an international one, establishing a solid foundation for his career.
Artists and vocalists often discovered Vinton’s compositions on YouTube, where he advertised his work. Once contacted, he would outline his terms, conditions, and pricing. Reflecting on his journey, Vinton offered valuable advice to new producers and soca artists: “Don’t expect immediate success.” He shared how he spent six years practicing before going full-time, and even then, it took a while to gain momentum. Knowing one’s worth and avoiding complacency was crucial.
Vinton emphasized that for soca to achieve international recognition, it must be defined in every aspect and category. Soca thrives in a multicultural community with diverse styles and flavors, and this diversity needs to be marketed comprehensively. Instead of a narrowly curated playlist, genuine representation of the genre’s breadth is essential for global success.
Vinton Ollivierre’s story as Hunta Flow is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to elevating soca music. Through his journey, he continues to inspire and shape the future of the genre, ensuring its rich legacy and vibrant evolution.