Shern Williams, known to his fans as Skarpyon, is gearing up for the release of his highly anticipated 2024 album, “Just Soca.” In an exclusive interview with Asberth News Network, he shared his journey into the vibrant world of soca music, which is as colorful and rhythmic as his melodies.
Growing up in the quaint villages of Gomea, Riley, and Evesham, Skarpyon’s childhood was filled with the simple joys of the countryside. “I did things kids were known to do back in those days: pitch marbles, spin tops, ride carts, and have a pen of pigeons or rabbits,” he recalled. These early days laid a foundation of community and culture that would later resonate through his music.
Skarpyon’s first encounter with music was at The Evesham Methodist School, where his love for the art form began to blossom. His father, a singer and musician, passed on his passion for music, instilling in young Shern a deep appreciation for melodies and rhythms. This familial influence was the spark that ignited Skarpyon’s musical journey.
The turning point came when he joined the National Youth Band, where he found his true calling in soca music. Inspired by legends like Becket, Krosfyah, Buju Banton, and Sanchez, Skarpyon began to carve out his niche in the soca genre. In 1996, he recorded his first soca song, “Loosen Up,” marking the official start of his career.
Skarpyon’s breakthrough moment arrived in 2004 when he won The Ragga Soca competition. “2004 was my first breakout year,” he told Asberth News Network. This victory catapulted him into the limelight, setting the stage for a series of memorable performances and achievements. Among these, his trips to Cuba and his triumphant 2013 performance of “Hammer ‘n Conch” stand out, especially as he won the Calypso Monarch competition that same year.
His creative process is as dynamic as his performances. Often starting with a small melody, Skarpyon builds his songs around ideas and concepts inspired by everyday life, love, relationships, and parties. Playing the guitar adds depth to his compositions, helping him craft melodies that resonate with his audience.
Over the years, Skarpyon has collaborated with various artists, with “Leave Me Alone” featuring Jamesy P being a fan favorite. Despite these numerous collaborations, he cherishes each one, finding unique joy and learning from every experience.
As he looks forward to the release of “Just Soca,” Skarpyon reflects on his career with a sense of gratitude and anticipation. The album, set to hit online streaming platforms this summer, promises to capture the essence of his musical journey. Additionally, fans can look forward to new releases like “Tight Jeans,” “Horning-Season,” “Ms. Riding Hood,” “Greedy Man,” “Grown and Sexy,” “Cloudy,” and an upcoming collaboration with Mason titled “No Talk.”
In the next five years, Skarpyon hopes to expand his reach, connecting with audiences beyond the Caribbean. His motivation stems from a genuine love for music and the unwavering support of his fans. When not making music, he enjoys reading and learning, always seeking to grow both personally and professionally.
Connecting with fans on a personal level is crucial for Skarpyon. “I connect with fans by meeting them on the ground,” he told Asberth News Network. “It gives a true picture of what they feel about the music and my personality.” Through his music, he aims to convey messages of love, happiness, and fun, uplifting those who listen.
Skarpyon is optimistic about the future of the soca music industry. He believes that while the industry has made strides, there is still room for improvement, particularly in creating structures that allow artists to benefit financially. With continued support, he sees soca music gaining recognition worldwide.
For aspiring soca artists, Skarpyon’s advice is simple: keep at it. Persistence and passion are key to making a mark in the industry. If given the chance, Skarpyon dreams of performing in Japan, captivated by the country’s electrifying energy and enthusiastic audiences.
Beyond music, Skarpyon reveals a lesser-known talent: he is also a painter. This artistic side adds another layer to his creative expression. As for collaborations, working with Buju Banton remains a dream, inspired by the influence Buju had on him during his formative years.
As the release of “Just Soca” approaches, Skarpyon stands ready to take his music to new heights, sharing the vibrant spirit of soca with the world.
