He's uncompromising. Singer/songwriter Ataklan continues to produce music that goes beneath the surface. Born Mark Jiminez, the singer, known for strong music, such as Flood, Naked Walk and My God Doh Sleep, said music was his way to provide a service. The Sunday Guardian spoke with the musician who has been performing for 20 years, at the Cascadia Hotel, last Wednesday. The unpretentious Ataklan was dressed simply–as he normally would be.
His humility shows. The entertainer, who still lives in Chinapoo, Morvant, where he grew up, says simply, when asked why he never moved out, "It's home." He described Morvant as a beautiful place. "Success is not about moving out, it's about staying and contributing to positive change," he explained. His music career, which includes owning his record label, TAJ Records has not separated him from his community. "People have always been a part of what I do. I believe as long as you live good with people and you're not selfish, it will always be a respect," he said. His songs may not be on the airwaves but don't be fooled, he has been performing both in and out of T&T's shores.
No wasting time
Ataklan's main focus, though, has always been his 11-year-old son and spending time with family. This year, he can be heard singing Soca Girl. "Original soca is melodious and full of lyrical content," he said. A groovy song, it tells of a woman who loves soca. "Though she may be seen jumping and wining, you should not look at her as a slut," he said. Recorded in Jamaica, the song has been well-received and he has performed at 3Canal's concerts, which are still ongoing.
The song also tells a story of people who created soca. Ataklan has always been a musician that is not boxed in. His lyrics also deal with human nature and he expresses his opinions honestly. While he has been getting support, he said, "All the time you find people want you to conform. I believe you should be uncompromising in your art and relevant." The straight-forward lyricist said he does not like to waste time. When asked why he was not more in the spotlight, he said, "It seems like artistes are fighting for visibility. If your work is strong and you have faith in it, everything will come your way."
