About Me
It was by no accident that this dynamic group embraced a name that explicitly expressed guts, determination and stick-to-itiveness, since 9 years ago, they knew that it would take gumption to consistently deliver an eclectic array of artistic masterpiece. Gumption Productions Inc., was first established as a band in 1993 when four talented Jamaican musicians and long time friends decided to complement each other with their unique styles, creating a magnetic musical force to be reckoned with.
Over the years to follow, many major artists such as the late Dennis Brown, Ken Boothe, Freddie McGregor, John Hold, Barrington Levy, Diana King, among others, were drawn to Gumptions professionalism and almost innate ability to unveil diversity in its craft. Gumption had proven that regardless of the varied styles of delivery, it was always up for the challenge and therefore had no fear of repeating excellence in its compositions. This kind of exposure only paved the way for Gumptions growth. Despite the changes and challenges that sometimes occur in the music arena, Gumptions talents, no nonsense attitude and respect for its craft, are recorded like passing years, in history.
Initially, many might have seen this band as purely reggae, but having shared the musical stage with world-renowned jazz artiste Monty Alexander, Gumption has illuminated its unique kaleidoscope of creative expression without sacrificing its core objective to satisfy a wide and diverse audience reach. Yard Movement was the successful Jazz and Reggae fusion, which started in 1996 and has since been received worldwide by music enthusiasts. This success was applauded with a second album with Monty Alexander, this time a Bob Marley tribute entitled Stir It Up, plus recording tracks for Beres Hammonds Harmony House Label. This Band has been recognized and awarded best backing band by the Jamaica Federation of Music 2000 and 2001, and Martin International Reggae and World Music 2001.
Gumption has become one of Jamaicas leading and most sought after band and in addition to previously being the official band for well known balladeer Beres Hammond, has toured extensively in the United States, Japan, Europe and the Caribbean, leaving an indelible musical mark which has earned the band genuine respect everywhere it performs.
Leading from this kind of exposure, it seemed a natural progression that an entertainment production company should be established. After talking with the principals of this company, you will realize that the words entertainment and production are limiting the scope of their vision. This company is about music and entertainment production, distribution and performance. Gumption Production Inc. which officially opened its doors on January 2002, is tapping into the unsaturated opportunities in the music industry both locally and internationally. Gumption Production Inc. is creatively utilizing mass media and cutting edge technologies to unearth the gamut of musical potentials in the marketplace.
Since this company embraces the fact that one of the best qualities of a good teacher in this and any given technique, is to open the mind to learn, it has not confined itself to past glories but has a keen appreciation for present individualism. Gumption Production Inc. therefore will not be stifled by rhetoric or so called rules, but instead will accept the challenges that form the backdrop of change, and through committed strength, form alliances with various talents of the music world to ensure the survival of the timeless nature of music.
Gumptions solid reputation as a band that understands the need to continuously create avenues of musical expression, has cemented the foundation on which to proceed successfully with a production company.
THE BAND
After his noted three year performance with internationally acclaimed reggae group Chalice, Rolando Phanso Wilson channeled his innate natural music abilities and his experiences into developing a band that promised to utilize this genre to inculcate positive vibrations and attitudes in order to ensure a continuity of conscious awareness to the gift of life.
THEN
Phanso, who perceives music as the language of the soul, pulled together friends who were of like minds. The original Gumption band members were:
Robert 'Gus' Angus Guitar
Dwight Duke Dawes Keyboards,
Carlton Grub Messam Bass,
Rolando Phanso Wilson Drum.
Since the tragic death of Carlton Grub Messam in 1998, who was instrumental in the bands creation, Gumption has celebrated his invaluable contribution by the demonstration of unity and strength in every performance. For a while, Gumption utilized the skills of Michael Fletcher and Trevor McKenzie as alternate bass players.
NOW
Gumption now has original members Rolando "Phanso" Wilson on Drums and Dwight "Duke" Dawes on Keyboards, with Novelyn "16" Thompson on guitar and Isaiah "Onie" Palmer on bass.
THE BUSINESS
The main objective of Gumption Production Inc. is quite simple: to skillfully manipulate the communication technologies worldwide, to enhance the natural creativity and talent of a diverse collection of musicians. The opportunities at Gumption Production Inc. include:
Recorded performance (CDs, tapes, vinyl)
Market distribution
Digital satellite airplay
Traditional airplay
Internet marketing and exposure
Utilising expertise, professionalism and efficiency, this company is committed to the development of high-quality products that will effectively compete on the global marketplace. Music will include, but not limited to, reggae, rap/hip hop, rhythm and blues, ska, soca pop, jazz and gospel/inspirational sounds.
THE TEAM
Rolando Alphanso Phanso Wilson
Phanso, president of Gumption Productions Inc. is a visionary whose extensive experiences has allowed him to conceptualise, create and implement various strategies that are need to stay alive and on top in the entertainment world. His creative judgment has accomplished and continues to accomplish what is needed for long term, lasting success for this company.
Dwight Duke Dawes
Duke is Vice President/Operations and as one of the original members of the band, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He is an accomplished musician who has played with many international and local acts at venues worldwide.
Paul Thompson
Paul, Vice President/Administration has always worked hard to make the best of every business opportunity in which he has been involved. His managerial skills coupled with his uncanny ability to reach people whether through dialogue or through the quality of work that he does, have fostered an atmosphere of integrity and respect from his peers.
Gumption Productions and Tuff Riddim Records presents a brand new approach to the compilation concept, with their "Battlefield Super Single" featuring Jah Cure, Capleton, Turbulence, Bushman, Lymie Murray and many others.
CD'S DISTRIBUTED BY:
All Access Entertainment
Shop 24, Central Plaza
13 Constant Spring Road
Kingston 10, Jamaica
Tel: (876) 908-4949
Fax: (876) 908-4950
www.allaccessent.com
