Clive Matthews

Clive Matthews Singer, Songwriter and Producer Clive Matthews was born on September 26,1953. He grew up in Trench Town, the musical Mecca of Jamaica, and attended the Jones Town Primary School and Kingston Comprehensive High (formerly Kingston Senior School). While at Kingston Senior, Clive formed a group with a few of his classmates and sang the popular songs that they heard on theft radio, accompanied by homemade instruments – guitars made out of Sardine cans and drums made from Cardboard boxes. It is no surprise he gravitated toward music at an early age. Living in Trench Town, he was exposed to many great musical talents, among the illustrious list are Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Delroy Wilson, Errol Dunkley, The Wailing Soul, Abyssinians, and the Slickers. Clive started singing professionally at the age of sixteen. His first recording was entitled “My Girl Has Gone”. This was followed by “Apology” and “Live Not For Vanity”, done in the early 70’s. Although they were good songs, they did not make an impact on the airwaves due to poor promotion and distribution. This did not discourage Clive’s strong love for the music. During the 1980’s Clive met musician Derrick Barnett, bass guitarist, of the Sagittarius Band, Trevor Roper of Chalice and Norman Vassell of the Mighty Titans Band. This association expanded his musical talent and it was at this point he did a cover version of Gladys Knight’s hit single “Hero” and an original song called “Lover Man”. Both songs did well in Canada where he was nominated for Best Upcoming Artiste in 1995. Clive Matthews and Norman Vassell have pooled their musical talents and joined Peter Boreland’s production company, Rootical Dubber. The company has produced a large catalogue of original material, among them “Only Jah Is Able” and “You’re My Empress”. Clive Matthews wrote both songs.