In the vibrant landscape of Jamaican music, DJ Carl “Carlos A-Team” Simpson has steadily built a reputation synonymous with quality and professional execution. Originating from Mandeville, Manchester, Simpson, alongside his A-Team DJ collective, has not only earned acclaim locally but has also carved a significant niche on the international stage, embodying the very essence of their name – a top-tier, formidable unit.
The Genesis of the A-Team
Simpson’s musical journey began not in a studio, but within the very foundation of his home, nurtured by parents with a deep passion for music. This early exposure ignited a lifelong love affair with sound, leading him to pursue formal education at Munro College and later the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT).
The A-Team DJ collective officially formed around 2014, a venture born from a shared passion between Simpson and his best friend, Sanjay Foster, also known as Centrum. Approximately a year later, Marlon Mitchell, or ‘Ace,’ joined the ranks, solidifying the core of what would become a respected DJ ensemble. The moniker ‘A-Team’ was a natural fit, reflecting the confidence and perceived potential instilled by those around them. “People around us always said we had the potential to be great, so we called ourselves the A-Team,” Simpson explained.
Global Reach and Dedicated Craftsmanship
Over the past decade, the A-Team has expanded its sonic footprint far beyond Jamaica’s shores. Their impressive international performance list includes engagements in Antigua, the Bahamas, Belize, Canada, and across the United States, showcasing their versatility and appeal to diverse audiences. This global presence is a testament to their dedication to the craft of DJing and music production.
Simpson himself is a fervent advocate for continuous improvement, dedicating countless hours daily to perfecting his skills. His routine involves producing original remixes, exploring new musical genres, and staying abreast of the latest industry trends. He meticulously follows social media, monitors popular music pools, and directly sources music from producers, ensuring his sets are always fresh and relevant. This commitment to mastering his art is a cornerstone of the A-Team’s success.
Memorable Milestones and Jamaican Music News
Among the many highlights of his career, Simpson cites his experience as the official DJ for the Red Bull Dance Your Style Competition as particularly memorable. This international dance event, which showcases freestyle and musicality through unpredictable music, recently held a significant leg in St. Andrew, Jamaica. The competition, known for its crowd-voting format where the audience decides the winner, is a crucial platform for street dancers in Jamaica, celebrating the island’s profound influence on global dance culture. The Jamaican edition was ultimately won by Tevin “Killer Bean” Shaw, who went on to represent the island on the world stage.
The Red Bull Dance Your Style competition exemplifies the dynamic and evolving nature of Jamaica’s music and dance scene, providing vital exposure for local talent and fostering a competitive, yet supportive, environment.
The ‘A-Team’ Ethos: Consistency and Resilience
Simpson acknowledges that the journey has not been without its challenges. As a naturally reserved individual, gaining exposure and networking have not always come easily. However, he credits strong management, supportive friends within the industry, and, most importantly, unwavering consistency for overcoming these hurdles. “I make sure my performance speaks for me,” he stated, emphasizing that his skill and delivery are his primary communication tools.
The dedication to perfecting his craft, combined with the collective’s commitment to delivering high-caliber performances, ensures that the A-Team DJ collective consistently lives up to its name. Their ongoing pursuit of excellence and expansion of their global reach signal a promising future within the competitive world of music.
Simpson’s advice to aspiring DJs is grounded in discipline: “Keep going, no matter what. Be consistent, study your craft, and always keep learning. The struggles will come, but if you use them as motivation, instead of setbacks, they’ll push you forward.”