Demonie “Squidell” Wilson, the older brother of dancehall artiste Popcaan, says the aim of his book Essential Notes: A Glimpse into the Reality of the Music Industry is to educate people about the sector.

Wilson, who is also an Artiste & Repertoire (A&R) representative at Atlantic Records UK, hosted a book signing and meet and greet on Wednesday, May 29, inside The Street Supply at the Dubwise Café.

Several members of the entertainment fraternity came out to show support.

“Before venturing into the music business my ideas were based on assumptions and what I saw and heard. However, since becoming involved on a professional level, I’ve realised it’s not what I thought. My aim is to educate outsiders with more detailed information about what it’s really like. Additionally, I focus on sharing valuable insights with aspiring artistes so they don’t have to repeat the mistakes their predecessors made,” Wilson told the
Jamaica Observer.

He added: “We need more books as a whole more…written by us so we have tangible references. This helps to document our experiences for generations to come.”

Wilson says the feedback to the book has been “amazing”.

“All physical copies sold out in Kingston one day after release. On Amazon it is currently ranked #10 in Music Business Books and #33 in Music Reference Books,” said Wilson.

A seasoned artiste manager, he has managed the likes of dancehall artistes Chi Ching Ching, Govana, among others.

The St Thomas-born Wilson says the book took him four years to complete.

“Many people perceive working in the music industry as the most glamorous thing. I can guarantee that when they turn the last page, they won’t look at anyone in the industry the same way again. I must add that anyone expecting scandals or gossip, this is not the book for you. There is plenty of that on social media, so keep scrolling,” Wilson disclosed.

Among those who were in attendance at the book signing were media personalities Tricia “Sparks” Spence, Arianne Hammond of The Fix, gold- and platinum-selling producers Mikey Bennett, Emudio and J.L.L., Popcaan, and fellow recording artistes Sevana, Yaksta, Jesse Royal, Zagga, Laa Lee, Chronic Law, Jahshii, and Govana.