Drop Leaf Riddim – Don Corleon

The Drop Leaf Riddim: Don Corleon’s Timeless Reggae Masterpiece

In 2005, Jamaican producer Donovan “Don Corleon” Bennett dropped a riddim that would etch its name into the annals of reggae and dancehall history: the Drop Leaf Riddim. Known for his innovative touch and ability to bridge roots reggae with contemporary sounds, Don Corleon crafted a track that became an instant classic, uniting a stellar cast of artists and resonating with fans worldwide. Released as the inaugural volume of his Rhythm Streetz series, Drop Leaf remains a testament to the power of a well-produced riddim and the voices that bring it to life.

The Drop Leaf Riddim is a mellow, soulful one-drop beat, infused with a smooth bassline and crisp instrumentation that exudes both nostalgia and freshness. Co-produced with Nigel “Ruff Cut” Staff and Wayne “DJ Wayne” Morris, it’s a riddim that feels timeless—rooted in the traditions of reggae while appealing to a modern audience. Its versatility allowed it to carry a range of emotions and messages, from love and longing to grief and resilience, making it a canvas for some of the genre’s most iconic talents.

The lineup on Drop Leaf reads like a who’s-who of mid-2000s reggae and dancehall. Jah Cure’s “Longing For” stands out as a heart-wrenching anthem, his soulful voice yearning over the riddim’s gentle sway—a track that became a defining moment in his career. T.O.K.’s “Footprints” brought a mournful yet uplifting tribute to lost loved ones, striking a universal chord with its raw emotion. Gentleman’s “Intoxication” added an international flavor, blending his German roots with Jamaican vibes in a smooth, romantic cut. Morgan Heritage’s “Your Best Friend” offered a warm, familial love song, while Maxi Priest’s “I Believe” infused the riddim with his signature lovers’ rock polish.

The riddim didn’t stop there. Sizzla’s “Be Strong” delivered a fiery call to perseverance, Luciano’s “For the Leaders” brought conscious lyrics with spiritual weight, and Anthony B’s “Get You Girl” kept the dancehall energy alive. Tanya Stephens’ “After You” added a reflective, bittersweet edge, and Vybz Kartel’s collaboration with Nina Sky, “In a Dream,” showcased his early versatility. Each artist found a way to make the riddim their own, proving Don Corleon’s production could adapt to any style without losing its core identity.

What makes Drop Leaf endure is its emotional depth and replay value. It’s the kind of riddim you can hear in a dancehall session, a quiet night at home, or even a memorial—it’s that adaptable. The instrumental alone, credited to Don Corleon, is a gem, with its clean, uncluttered arrangement leaving space for vocalists to shine. Fans on platforms like X still rave about it, with posts calling it a “masterpiece” where “every single tune is a hit,” reflecting its lasting impact nearly two decades later.

For Don Corleon, Drop Leaf was a career-defining moment. It kicked off his Rhythm Streetz series with a bang, setting the stage for later hits like the Secrets Riddim. Its success also highlighted his knack for spotting talent and pairing it with the perfect sound. Available on platforms like iTunes and celebrated on sites like Riddim World, Drop Leaf continues to introduce new listeners to the magic of 2005 reggae.

In a genre where riddims often come and go, Drop Leaf stands tall—a reminder of a golden era when Don Corleon and his roster turned a simple beat into a cultural touchstone. Whether it’s Jah Cure’s longing or T.O.K.’s footprints that linger in your ears, this riddim is proof that great music doesn’t just play—it stays.