Arif Cooper, who passed away on March 5, 2023, was a celebrated Jamaican musician, music producer, international DJ, and event promoter. He was also the CEO of Fresh Ear Productions/AMC Music Ltd. and a radio broadcaster for the RJR Communications Group (FAME FM). Arif was introduced to the music industry at a young age by his father, Michael “Ibo” Cooper from Third World, who put him through piano lessons and exposed him to a large record collection.
He had the privilege of watching music legends such as Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, and Sting in various studio and show settings. Ibo brought Arif on tour to work with Third World as a road crew member when he was old enough.
Arif began DJing in 1991, thanks to his exposure to the Jamaican sound system culture, and started playing at house parties, local dances, nightclubs, international festivals, and major dancehall events. He was a founding member of Syndicate Disco from 1992 to 1997, and later established himself as an international DJ, playing at clubs, parties, and shows all over the world.
He held residencies at Club Mirage in Jamaica and Club Soul in Atlanta and toured with artists such as Sean Paul, Voice Mail, and Alaine. Arif founded Fresh Ear Productions in 1997 and played a significant role in the development and careers of various artists, including Vybz Kartel, Sean Paul, Tami Chynn, Jah Cure, Alaine, Elephant Man, and more. He also created hit singles in various genres, from Sean Paul’s “Hold My Hand” to Demarco’s “True Friend.” Arif passed away suddenly while playing at an event on March 5, 2023.
Who is Arif Cooper’s wife, Simone Clarke-Cooper?
Arif Cooper was previously married to fellow media personality Simone Clarke-Cooper. The couple’s marriage came to an end in the late 2010s, but during their time together, they welcomed a daughter named Aaryn Cooper. While the birth details of their daughter have not been publicly revealed, it appears that Aaryn is around 10 or 9 years old. Despite their divorce, Simone still uses Arif Cooper’s surname, and the two remained dedicated to co-parenting their daughter.
Simone Clarke-Cooper, born Simon Nichola Clarke, grew up in rural Jamaica with her elder sister and two younger brothers. Her father was a pastor, and her mother was a missionary. The details of her marriage to Arif Cooper are not publicly known, but it seems that they shared a happy and fulfilling time together as a married couple. Although their marriage ended, the two remained connected through their shared love and dedication to their daughter, Aaryn.