By Mario Russell
The shocking news of the fatal road accident of radio personality Clyde Franklyn Jemmott aka “Clyde D Outlaw” sent tears across the media, deejays and fans of the Radio Network OJO World 96.1 and 107.7 FM. He was popular both locally and internationally.
While returning from a party, Clyde along with the driver and another occupant got into an accident on the newly opened Point Fortin, Highway. There has been lots of talk on the media about the safety of this highway since accidents happen there frequently. Over the years, many entertainers have lost their lives due to fatal road accidents to name a few Onika Bostic, Dj Throat of Jugglers, Dj Lalo, Dj Shaun and even calypsonian Maestro. It is the nature of the business where entertainers have to be out late at night travelling from party to party.
Clyde 56 years was born, on the 4 th October 1967 and came from Coconut Drive in Morvant. In the early 90’s he along with another radio personality Adrian Hackshaw AKA “Third Bass” started their career with a deejay group put together by Mr Clive Maingot. During that time, they played in parties all over the country.
Between 2000- 2003 Clyde joined Downtown Outlaws where he further developed his deejay skills and gained extensive knowledge of the music. He managed the store at Frederick Court on Lower Frederick Street where he sold records and compact Discs. He worked with fellow Dj Wayne Rampersad who recently passed a few months ago. Dj Mario said, “Clyde was always focused and put his job first”. “He was well liked by the customers and gained popularity while working there”. He once said “if you have a choice to be right or kind which one would you choose” ?.
The opportunity came for him to move on and for the past 20 plus years he has been a selector on the popular Radio Network WEFM. Dj Mario was happy to know, he continued to carry the name Outlaw which means “free spirited and rebellious” as it relates to the playing of the music.
Clyde soft spoken and quiet was loved by all. As a deejay he did not see the need to be over flashy and impressive but his knowledge and skills of the music was unbeatable. His selection of the music was his voice. He knew when to play a track that would blend with the other leaving a memorable mark on the airwaves. He also could predict and program future hits. He knew all the hits going way back from the 50’s to this present time.
He was not the type to waste time on an argument trying to prove who is right or wrong. His quiet
personality stood out and left a lasting impression on his fellow workers. Beyond the bright lights of radio, Clyde was a private guy and loved his family. He focused his live on self-improvement always trying to do better. He was at the prime of his life building his castle brick by brick. His sudden passing has sadden the hearts of many and caused them to look deep inside and show a greater appreciation for life.
You could be here today and in a flash you could be gone. Despite one‘s busy schedule, when there is the opportunity to show love to a brother do so. Send a blessing of love and give thanks. As
Voice the Artist said “Cheers to life” .
