~ St. Maarten born Donald Carty triumphs with the launch of New CDs ~
What is your full name and where were you born?
My full name is Donald Emmanuel Carty, but my artist name is $impletune. I am the founder and CEO of Faceoff Recordz / FaceoffStudioz & We FACE Life Ent. I was born on the friendly and beautiful island of St. Maarten in 1982.
Where did you go to school and what did you do after you finished high school?
I attended St. Dominic from primary through high school. After school, I started working at TelEm then continued my studies in Holland.
When was this CD launched?
Well, I have 2 CDs – which I call fixtapes – finished this year. I call them fixtapes because I wanted to be original on the island and more innovative. Everyone says and knows "mixtapes" but I want my listeners to know that FaceoffRecordz pushes Fixtapes.
What is FaceoffRecordz?
My record label is called FaceoffRecordz, which is divided into FaceoffFilmz and FaceoffStudioz. The word "Faceoff" means a lot; it signifies us as human beings facing life's ups and downs, ins and outs. "We FACE Life ENT" is a movement I would like to create as a brand name exposing the words in letting individuals know that whatever comes our way in this tough world, we must FACE it.
What prompted you to do this particular CD/song?
In life, it's all about perfect timing, and I felt it was time to produce this type of material. One fixtape that is complete is "Dedication 2Dah Ladies" TheFixtape. This is a fixtape that talks about relationships, love, heartbreaks and the strength of a woman. It is also a fixtape that is not based on discriminating women, but building a foundation of hope and education; how you can apply yourself to the actions of real life situations. Another fixtape I have completed is called "Determination" TheFixtape. This fixtape is a little more in-depth and talks about being able to rise out of the dirt and reach the end or achieve a victory. It takes its time in describing hardship and overcoming life's struggle by first looking from within; finding your true potential.
What made you get into music?
Music is something special that I can use to express myself; in using words in collaboration with sound to relate to the people who need that drive and faith to believe. Just being opened minded and real to the people that surround me daily is of great importance. I tell of what goes on in the world and in me as an individual who's a part of the world; and of all the changes happening these days, which many can relate too. All in all, I'm confident in saying that music was a true calling from God, and slowly but surely, He can direct me to a fulfilling purpose of life's music.
What instrument do you play?
When I was younger, I played the piano because I found it so interesting, but since I found a passion for soccer/football, I never kept up with it. During that time, I always had a love for different types of music and really wanted to know the instruments used to produce such an authentic sound.
What do you sing?
I sing and rap what comes to my heart and what people need to hear. I say "need" to hear because these days music misleads and blinds people towards wrong intentions. Especially the younger generation who needs guidance to become better people in their communities and more importantly in the world they live. We can all have party tunes and have fun, once we do it responsibly like grown adults; once I can express myself and be real with my listeners, I find that very important.
Who writes the lyrics?
I write all the lyrics to my songs as well as creatively coming up with certain concepts.
What encouraged you to get your own record label?
With the ways and growth of technology as well as the use of the internet, it is very possible to start up a record label company. My intention drove me to be independent because I can do what and express how I feel in my music.
What do you hope your future holds?
We all wish the best for ourselves in the future – family, friends and kids. But we will never know what plans or path God gives us in this life. We want to be something or achieve something great our whole life, but things can change in many ways for us to answer our destiny or true calling. With the faith to believe, it will always be something positive or forthcoming. For me and every one else, I hope for good health and a good spirit.
Where can it be found (YouTube)? Where can you buy it?
I have no main outlet at the moment, but you can contact me for purchase at 527-3323 or email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Also comment and leave your views on my facebook page Don Emmanuel; or FaceoffRecordz for updates and new music. For videos and samples of the music from FaceoffStudioz, you can go to YouTube and search "FaceoffRecordz D2DLadies" or go straight to the webpage www.youtube.com/FaceoffRecordz
Have you travelled anywhere for holidays or work related trips?
I have been to Holland to spend time with family, and before different places in Europe as a professional football player.
If you were to invite three people (living or dead) to dinner, who would they be? Why would you invite them and what would you serve?
I would invite Renaldinho, a fantastic football player because he plays with passion and dedication yet managers to make the game lots of fun; Bonethug 'N Harmony's Kraziebone because he is a very well rounded music artist; and my third guest would be my brother Terry because we have an amazing connection. It is difficult to decide what I would serve them, as I always think of diets. But I love local island food – all of it; so I would probably serve them crispy fried rice and "stampot"!
Donald Carty is a very well educated man with plenty of drive. He is proof that young St. Maarteners can and do make their way in the world before returning back to this beautiful island.