Busta Riddim Aka Busta Anthem Riddim – Pot Of Gold

Richie Stephens brought Busta Riddim, also known as Busta Anthem Riddim, out in 2000 on Pot Of Gold, with the set sitting squarely in that sharp, late-1990s-to-2000 dancehall moment when jugglings were driven by tough drums, clipped bass and songs built for fast rotation in the dance. Stephens, better known as a singer and songwriter than a pure studio man, had already carved out a name with lovers rock and crossover work, and this riddim shows him working a heavier, more street-facing side of his catalogue.

The rhythm has that brash, forward-pushing bounce that suits hype lyrics and playful badman talk. It leaves plenty of space for DJs to ride the pocket, and that space is exactly what gives the best cuts their lift. Elephant Man’s “Out Of Order” is one of the most recognisable entries here, all energy and crowd-commanding attitude. Hawkeye’s “Money Making Guy” also fits the beat well, turning the riddim into a talk-through hustle tune. Bounty Killer and Richie Stephens’ “World A Hot Gal” gives the project a bigger star turn, with Killer’s sharp delivery against Stephens’ smoother voice. Professor Nuts’ “Don’t” and its acapella version add a lighter, cheekier contrast, while T. O. K. ’s “Hatred And Envy” brings the younger harmony crew edge that helped define the period.

Other important cuts include Copper Cat’s “Bicycle, ” General Degree’s “All About You, ” Captain Barkey’s “Dance To My Song, ” and the couplet of Crissy D and Lady G on “Chatta Box. ” It is a lively juggling with enough name value and personality to keep it moving.