“What is that you listening to? Proper music was made back in the day when I was growing up.â€
I am going to try refrain and not be like that grandpa kids don’t take seriously, by saying such statements.
The meager essence of music doesn’t allow it to stay the same so it’s hard to compare a genre of music from different generations. One should just try relate and appreciate the differences of the time.
Military Riddim takes us to 2004. The year when ‘Ivan The Terrible’, one of the most devastating hurricanes, ravaged the shores of Jamaica. The category 5 hurricane, had the Prime Minister declare a state of emergency on the island and the aftermath of the storm left a death toll of 18 people.
George W Bush was re-elected as president of the United States of America in 2004 and it was also the year in which atrocities of Abu Ghraib surfaced to the world.
On the dancehall scene, in true military fashion, Military Riddim had people goose stepping all the way to the club. One can only listen and marvel at the catchy beat and appreciate how well the riddim was subscribed. With over twenty artists on the riddim it had many memorable tracks which made it stand out. These were the days when Vybz Kartel was still dark skinned and Elephant Man, Sizzla, TOK, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, and General degree were in their prime.
These are just a handful of the artists who shined on the military parade like beat. The riddim also features Mad Cobra, Assassin, Lady Saw, Chico, Zumjay, Brick and Lace, Tanya Stephens, Tami Chin, Macka Diamond, Kiprich, Voicemail, Wayne Marshall, Ward, and Mr Easy.
My top pick on the riddim was TOK’s ‘Inna me Bed’. It had a bit of everything with the various vocals from the legendary group.
Dancehall was still evolving at the time. And as they say when describing wine, this was a good year for dancehall. A definite classic that is worth your time, that dancehall lovers will appreciate.
In closing Happy Birthday to my good friend Kudzi ‘Pablo’ B. Have a good one bud. Beverages on me today. #08/08
