This week’s throwback takes us back to 1995.
1995 was the year in which South Africa’s Springboks made history in winning the 3rd edition of the IRB Rugby World Cup. Nelson Mandela’s presence at the victory ceremony marked a new era in post-apartheid South Africa as they beat favourites New Zealand in the final.
1995 was also the year infamous football star, OJ Simpson’s murder trial came to an end. Simpson who was accused of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman was found not guilty. The televised trial gripped the world for 11 months, coming to an end on 3 October 1995.
Musically, in the same year various legendary tracks were released including;
Waterfalls – TLC
Kiss From a Rose – Seal
You Are Not Alone – Michael Jackson
Gangasta’s Paradise – Coolio ft L.V
1995 was the beginning of a new era in Jamaica as two new political parties, Jamaica Labour Party and rival National Democratic Movement were established.
In dancehall, 1995 was the year of Skettel Riddim. It is fascinating how dancehall has changed over the years. Skettel Riddim has that original sound that had the genre on the map initially. With its distinct rhythm the tune was a party favourite and can still work in authentic dancehall clubs today.
The riddim has 14 tracks with artists including General Degree, Delta, Spragga Benz, Buccaneer, Daddy Screw, Delly Ranks, Frisco Kid, Bushman, Roundhead, Louie Culture, Powerman and Screchie Joe.
My top picks on the riddim are General Degree’s, When I Hold You Tonight and Nothing Nah Go Gwaan by Delta. But, my top pick has to be Bushman’s, Call Di Hearse. The poignant track shows off the reggae artists good voice and the artist sings about real matters like death itself.
Another top riddim to look out for. It gives you a clear indication of just how far the genre has come. We need a little more of this right now as the new sound is getting a tad bit monotonous. An old tonic wouldn’t be so bad.
