Riley wants more confidence from the ladies

Garfene Grandison, Gleaner writer

During 2009, as part of its anniversary celebrations, the Creative Production and Training Centre (CPTC) launched its television series titled Breakfast with the Stars. The series began by featuring international recording artiste Dr Jimmy Cliff. This week, CPTC chose to feature Tarrus Riley.

At the recent taping of the episode at CPTC's Wycliffe Bennett studio, the specially invited audience members comprised of leaders in the entertainment and business arenas who were treated to special performances by Natel, Nicky-B, Tarrus' band, the Black Soil Band and a special video recording from Big Yard's Mikey Bennett and others.

The series is intended for airing on on CTV and CVM-TV in Jamaica but is also earmarked for the United States.

Host Michael Anthony Cuffe, along with Riley had the audience laughing, especially when the latter spoke about what his name meant.

Tarrus, he explained, was almost the alter ego of Omar Riley, though the two could not be separated.

"Is not a Clark Kent or Superman ting but rather it's Superkent or Clarkman. They are part of each other. I'm Tarrus Riley, so it's a mixture of both individuals," the singer said.

Looking to his mother, Dean Fraser and father, Jimmy Riley, as his mentors, the 31-year-old singer spoke about the inspiration behind many of his songs.

Secretly manipulating women

Reading history books and learning about the women with self-esteem and confidence issues, dating back to slavery has caused Riley to pen several songs in an effort to boost a woman's self-image.

Riley also admitted that through his lyrics, he was secretly manipulating/tricking women in a positive way. "Nuff ah wha me seh dem nuh tek it literally but ah trick me ah trick dem," he laughed.

Continuing, Riley spoke about the importance of an ego in the entertainment industry despite what many might say.

However, he also said that one's ego should not be allowed to cloud a person's vision.

"Your ego should allow you to fly, jump outta airplane and soar but be careful cause too much of it can cause you to jump outta di plane, drop ah grung an' buss yuh head," the singer said. The audience laughed.

Riley also re-emphasised the importance of reading before taking centre stage to perform a slew of his favourite hits including, Beat Yuh and his chart-topping hit She's Royal.