CLAUDE STATEN, JR Mr Perseverance By Tony Smith
When I seek my cover features for Indie Incognito Magazine, I look for a full package story. Am I going to get to write a story that will be a great read, intoxicating, enlightening, entertaining, and maybe even a little controversial. Well, I got all of that and more with the one and only Claude Staten, Jr. This young brother embodies all of the elements that Indie Incognito stands for. An independent spirit. A take charge, get it done at all costs mentality and the persistence of a zen master. I first met Claude Staten, Jr via a few messages on face book. My media partner made me aware of a young man who seemed to have a lot on the ball. Claude ended up giving me a call and in the midst of our first conversation, I could sense what I was told about him. He told me about his tough upbringing in Brooklyn. How he was lost in a world of uncertainty and turmoil with no direction. Claude spoke with complete transparency and I was touched by his complete lack of reluctance, feeling we were immediately bonding. I was listening to a young man who had been through the ringer. Who understood his future was in his own hands. We talked about the relationships he has built over the past few years as his career has blossomed. Claude has learned how to see, feel and sense the insincere nature of many who approach him. This young man is savvy beyond his years, understands his value and never settles for less. Claude hit me with this nugget. “ Tony, I'm an intellectual Jacker. I jack people for their intelligence. I put my floppy disk and the hard drive in and take in all the information I can. What I can use and apply I apply it, or whatever else I never throw it away”. Never lacking confidence, Claude Staten, Jr is poised for greatness and will tell you so at every opportunity.
