Andrae Hugh Sutherland, identified professionally as Popcaan, has risen from humble beginnings in Saint Thomas Parish, Jamaica, to develop into some of the influential figures in modern dancehall music. Since his breakthrough in 2010 with the hit tune “Clarks,” Popcaan has maintained a gradual climb to worldwide stardom, collaborating with world superstars and incomes accolades alongside the way in which.
Early Life and Profession Beginnings
Born on July 19, 1988, Popcaan grew up in Portmore, Jamaica, the place he confronted a difficult upbringing. Regardless of these struggles, his ardour for music remained unwavering. In 2007, he caught the eye of dancehall heavyweight Vybz Kartel, who recruited him into the Gaza Music Empire. Beneath Kartel’s mentorship, Popcaan honed his craft, delivering hits resembling “Gal Wine,” “Jah Jah Shield Me,” and “Gangsta Metropolis.”
Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Popcaan’s career-defining second got here in 2010 when he collaborated with Vybz Kartel on “Clarks.” The observe grew to become a cultural phenomenon in Jamaica and past, considerably boosting gross sales of the British shoe model. This success led to a number of awards, together with the Excellence in Music and Leisure (EME) Award for Finest New Artist and Collaboration of the Yr.
His rising reputation noticed him touring extensively throughout Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean. By 2013, Popcaan had caught the eye of Canadian rapper Drake, who would later play a pivotal function in his profession.
Album Success and Worldwide Recognition
In 2014, Popcaan signed with Mixpak Data and launched his debut album, The place We Come From. The album, that includes hits like “The whole lot Good” and “Love Yuh Dangerous,” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and solidified his place as a dancehall powerhouse.
His sophomore album, Perpetually (2018), continued his success, additional mixing dancehall with worldwide sounds. In 2016, he signed with Drake’s OVO Sound and Warner Data, a transfer that expanded his attain in North America.
Collaborations and Mainstream Success
Popcaan has collaborated with varied worldwide artists, together with Jamie xx, Pusha T, Giggs, Wale, Gorillaz, Davido, and Matoma. He made his performing debut in The Intent 2: The Come Up (2018), showcasing his versatility past music.
His work with Drake has been notably notable. Their collaborations on “Controlla” (unreleased model), “Twist & Flip” (that includes PartyNextDoor), and “We Caa Achieved” have strengthened his presence in mainstream music. “Twist & Flip” was licensed Gold within the U.S. and Silver within the U.Ok., marking vital milestones in his profession.
Current Tasks and Legacy
In 2023, Popcaan launched his fifth studio album, Nice Is He, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. That very same yr, he celebrated the tenth anniversary of his debut album, The place We Come From, by releasing a deluxe model that includes new tracks and an unique collectible motion determine.
Regardless of missing an official music video, “Twist & Flip” has amassed over 17 million views on YouTube and charted on the Billboard Effervescent Beneath Scorching 100, Canadian Scorching 100, and U.Ok. Singles Chart.
Popcaan’s affect in dancehall is plain. With quite a few awards, worldwide collaborations, and an ever-growing fan base, he stays a driving power in fashionable reggae and dancehall music, proving that his journey from “Gangsta Metropolis” to world acclaim is much from over.
