Claudette CP Peters

Her voice, a soulful elixir, washes over you like a warm summer breeze, stirring something deep within your soul. With each note, she invites you to lose yourself in the rhythm, to let your body sway and your spirit soar.

Her bold style, a reflection of her fearless spirit, is as captivating as her music. From flowing locks to daring colours, her hairstyles are a canvas for her creativity, each one a statement of her individuality.

As she commands the stage, her presence is undeniable, a magnetic force that draws all eyes to her. When she steps out, the stage lights up. Her presence commands attention. Her musical influences, a vibrant tessellation woven from: the threads of Lauryn Hill’s raw emotion, Alison Hinds’ infectious energy, and Machel Montano’s rhythmic fire, infuse her performances with a unique and unforgettable flavour.

What really catches me is her radiant smile and the glint in her eyes, a captivating combination that leaves you breathless and yearning for more.

Our Woman Empowered performed at Tempo’s 10^th annual celebration of its existence in Antigua alongside: Christopher Martin, Konshens, Asher Otto, Tian Winter, Ziggy Ranking and Tarrus Riley. She has also become only the second female Soca singer to release two Soca songs in two separate years when she released Go Claudette Go, and Showtime in 2007.

I am talking about Antigua and Barbuda’s Soca Diva, Claudette “CP” Peters, a dynamic: entertainer, vocalist and songwriter who has become a household name among her peers and fellow countrymen in her native Antigua and Barbuda. She has gained the respect of fellow musicians and artists both throughout the Caribbean and throughout the: US, Canada and Europe, where her song “All I Know” has been ranked as number one on several DJ Charts.

CP as she is affectionately called by her fans started singing in Church at the tender age of nine, and also sang in her schools’ choir. She considers her years as a member of the Anglican Cathedral Youth Choir as her training ground and among her most rewarding experiences. Her main interest lies in music which is obvious to all as she has gone on to claim the title of Antigua’s Soca Diva.

In 1996, Claudette captured the Miss Teenage Pageant title, a feature of Antigua’s annual Carnival celebration. About a decade later, she was elevated by her country and the Queen of Antigua and Barbuda to the title of “Order of The Most Princely Heritage (OH).

Claudette was recognized on the regional and international Soca scene with her hit single “Something’s Got a Hold On Me,” and in 2005, Claudette became the first female artist to capture the “Antigua Soca Monarch” title with the song “All I Know.” She was named “The Best Female Artist, ” and “Song of The Year” at the First Annual National Vibes Star Project Awards held in Antigua in 2005.

Also in 2005, she was named “The Best Soca Artist” at the Twilight Soca Awards for the song “All I Know.” The following year she was nominated for the Best Female and Gospel Artist at the Second Annual National Vibes Star Project Awards. Later that year, with four International Soca Music Awards nominations, she won home the Best New Female Soca Artist trophy for her song “All I Know” at the International Soca Awards held in New York City.

Claudette dominated the Soca Monarch competition after her “All I know” win in 2005. Peters won the competition 2005–2008 until she voluntarily decided not to enter the competition in 2009. Did I mention that she was doing all of this as a mother? Regardless of her work, her daughter always came first, and during our talk, Claudette shared with me the challenges of being a woman in the music industry.

“Being a woman in the music industry hasn’t always been easy. It’s a world built by men, for men, and it can feel like a constant uphill battle. The objectification, the dismissive attitudes, the endless stream of ‘not-quite-right’ feedback – it can be exhausting. You start to question your talent, your worth, even your sanity.”

“Then, you meet women like Alison Hinds. Women who’ve been there, who’ve faced the same struggles, and who offer their wisdom, their guidance, their unwavering belief in you. They remind you of who you are, of the power of your voice, and the strength of your spirit.”

“I’ve learned to navigate this industry with a newfound resilience. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, to speak my truth, and to demand the respect I deserve. I’m grateful for mentorship, for friendship, and for unwavering support, because of my supporters, I know that I am not alone.”

I asked her to share some grown woman wisdom with our female artists. “Don’t let fear hold you back. Be bold, be fearless, and go after your dreams. The industry is constantly evolving, so be adaptable and open to new opportunities. Network with like-minded individuals, build strong relationships, and never stop learning. Remember, the music industry is about passion, creativity, and hard work. So, embrace the journey, and let your music be your voice.”

I could continue to list Claudette’s numerous achievements, but the sheer volume would exceed the page limit. Instead, I’ll simply express my admiration for her remarkable resilience and enduring relevance in an industry notorious for its fickleness. Claudette has defied the odds, consistently demonstrating a remarkable ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music industry and maintain her position as a prominent figure.