DRIVER RIDDIM produced by LOCKDOWN RECORDS 2012
Driver Overview
In 2012, reggae fans were treated to the Driver Riddim, a release built for both the dance and deep listening. The riddim’s rocksteady flow stood out, using steady drum patterns and warm basslines that reminded listeners of reggae’s early days. This style is important in sound system culture, where selectors and DJs look for rhythms that keep a steady groove, letting vocalists shine and crowds move together. The roots craftsman’s touch is clear in the way the music holds close to tradition. Every instrument and vocal fits the classic reggae structure, making it easy for sound systems to blend and play the tracks all night. This unity is thanks to the producer, LOCKDOWN RECORDS, a label known for keeping roots reggae alive in the modern era. LOCKDOWN RECORDS has earned respect for working with both veteran and new artists, and for bringing authentic reggae to new audiences. The Driver Riddim features a strong lineup. Jah Son brings a heartfelt message on “Jah Children.” Tippa Irie And G. Vibes, both respected in the UK reggae scene, team up for “Driving.” Tippa Irie is well-known for his hit “Hello Darling,” which reached the UK charts in the 1980s. Futureman’s “Rise Up” adds uplifting energy, while Peter Spence delivers smooth vocals on “Promise Land.” Smiley’s “Whats New” keeps the vibe fresh. Each artist adds their own style, but the riddim’s rocksteady heartbeat ties them together.
Driver Tracklist:
- Jah Son – Jah Children
- Tippa Irie And G. Vibes – Driving
- Futureman – Rise Up
- Peter Spence – Promise Land
- Smiley – Whats New
- Color T – Rise Up My People
- Matic Horns – Driver Horns
- Troublesome – One Love
- Black Blunt And Tippa Irie – High Grade
- Holloway – Jah Jah Love
- Silvah – Over Us
- Lloyd Brown – Make Time For Love
- Zatu And Kafu Banton – Ellos Van A Ver
- Dan I – Foolish Pride
- Leroy Simmonds – Ease Off
- Omar Perry – Change Your Ways
- Ziggy Ranking – When Jah Comes For You
- Colvin Melodey – Letter
- Ricardo Clark – When They Out
- Jb Baker – So We Ah Live
- Shinney Lasai – Runaway
- Elijah Black – State Of Emergency
- Maxi Priest – Yes We Can
- Lockdown – Driver Riddim
Releases Similar to Driver Riddim – Lockdown Records
Research and editorial by Riddimz Kalacta & Goltem, sourcing from physical vinyl labels, Discogs, ReggaeFever, Riddim-ID, DancehallMag, and other trusted archives.