Legendary Jamaican producer and sound engineer Clive Hunt has opened up about the breakdown of his working relationship with Ivorian reggae superstar Alpha Blondy, citing issues of exclusivity and artistic freedom. In a candid interview on 3FM’s Urban Blend with Blakk Rasta, Hunt revealed that Alpha Blondy didn’t want him to collaborate with any other African artist — a condition he found difficult to work with.
“I was asked to do some work with Tiken Jah Fakoly and I said no. I told my agent that I don’t want to do it because Alpha doesn’t want me to,” Hunt explained.
Despite losing the job, Clive still assisted behind the scenes by recommending Tuff Gong Studios, where many engineers were trained by him. But when Tiken Jah Fakoly’s album dropped with a special thanks to Clive Hunt in the credits, Alpha Blondy reportedly became upset.
“He was very angry,” Hunt added.
Clive Hunt and Alpha Blondy Go Way Back
Hunt also shared personal memories of Alpha Blondy, recalling the reggae legend’s early days before fame, when he was simply known as Seidu Konney, a student at Columbia University.
“I was the first to take him to a recording studio; he hadn’t seen one. I can tell you for sure,” he said, affirming his foundational role in Alpha’s musical journey.
Their partnership, which once thrived on creativity and brotherhood, seems to have soured due to professional boundaries set by Blondy. However, Hunt holds no grudges.
“I heard his last release with Capleton. It’s good… but he should have called me. I would have fixed the music and sent it back. This is my personal ego. I love him, and I’m happy for what he’s done,” Hunt said.
Open to Working With African Artists
While things may never be the same between the two, Clive Hunt made it clear that he’s still very interested in working with African reggae talents.
“I look forward to working with other artists from Africa,” he hinted.
This revelation highlights not only the complicated dynamics behind major musical collaborations but also Clive Hunt’s deep connection and contribution to African reggae. With over four decades in the business, Hunt’s legacy continues to grow, and his door remains open to the next generation of Afro-reggae stars.