SWELL HEADED RIDDIM produced by VARIOUS LABELS 1972-2014
Swell Headed Overview
Back in 2014, the Swell Headed Riddim made a strong mark in reggae music. The sound behind this release came from the hands of skilled producers working with VARIOUS LABELS, a group that’s been active since the early 1970s. VARIOUS LABELS is known for putting out deep roots reggae and dub, and has played a role in bringing classic island vibes to the world. Their catalog includes many respected releases, and their work is often found in vinyl collections and online streams. The recording process for Swell Headed Riddim focused on warm, live instruments and heavy basslines. The sound architect shaped the riddim with deep drums, echoing guitar, and swirling effects. This created a solid roots base that gave singers and deejays space to shine on the dub cut. Al Campbell brought emotion to the track Al Campbell - Hard Times, riding the riddim with his signature soulful voice. Barry Isaac and Barry Issac delivered Swell Headed Dub and Swell Headed, adding their unique energy and roots style to the mix. Burning Spear’s Black Disciples and Swell Headed tracks gave the riddim a spiritual and powerful edge. Chronixx brought a fresh sound to Di Youth Dem Freestyle and World Under Siege, connecting old-school roots with modern reggae energy. Each artist shaped the dub cut in their own way, using the strong foundation built by the producer and musicians. The Swell Headed Riddim’s dub version stands as an important part of reggae history, showing how artists and producers together can create music that lasts for years.
Swell Headed Tracklist:
- Al Campbell – Al Campbell – Hard Times
- Barry Isaac – Swell Headed Dub
- Barry Issac – Swell Headed
- Burning Spear – Black Disciples
- Burning Spear – Swell Headed
- Chronixx – Di Youth Dem Freestyle (2013)
- Chronixx – World Under Siege
- Clint Eastwood – Lend Me One Of Your Girlfriend
- Eek A Mouse Dubplate – Runaway
- Ernest Ranglin – Black Disciples
- Everton Blender – Live Up
- Freddie Mcgregor – Never Get Away
- Freddie Mcgregor – Never Run Away
- Hughie Izachaar – Swell Headed Melodica
- Hughie Izachaar – Thanks & Praise Version
- Jack Radics – Mr. Mention
- Jah Walton – Jah Walton Chant
- Kabaka Pyramid X Equikoxx X Channel One – Champion Sound (2014)
- Leroy Smart – Never Get Swell Headed
- Pablove Black – Dread Head
- Pablove Black – Push Pull
- Prince Far I – Give I Strength
- Rappa Robert – Slick Chap
- Redrose & Malvo – Never Get
- Reggae On Top All Stars – Swell Headed Dub
- Revolutionaries – Swell Headed
- Rod Taylor – The Lord Is My Light
- The Itals – False Preachers
- The Mighty Diamonds – Swell Headed (Dubplate)
- The New Establisment – Dub Rock
- Turbo Belly – Turbo Belly – Fire Fi Di Pope
- U-Roy – Swell Head Skank
- Various Artists – Jackie Mittoo & The Sound Dimensions – Jericho Rock
- Winston Jarrett – Survival Is The Game
Releases Similar to Swell Headed Riddim – Various Labels
Research and editorial by Riddimz Kalacta & Goltem, sourcing from physical vinyl labels, Discogs, ReggaeFever, Riddim-ID, DancehallMag, and other trusted archives.