News Americas, New York, NY, August 22, 2024: Grammy-winning reggae singer Shaggy is taking fans on a nostalgic ride through vintage Dancehall with the release of three new singles from the highly anticipated “Badman” riddim project.
Produced by Shaggy and Shane Hoosong in collaboration with VP Records and Ranch Entertainment, the project offers a fresh take on the iconic 1980s “Gunman” riddim by legendary producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes. The first two singles, by Olaf Blackwood featuring Shaggy and Junior Cat, drop today, August 22nd.
The single, “Selector Pull It,” celebrates Dancehall’s lively party culture. The track captures the vibrant atmosphere of Dancehall events, urging DJs to keep the energy alive by replaying crowd favorites. The music video, directed by Jay Will, transports viewers to an authentic Dancehall party in Kingston, Jamaica, with cameos from icons like Bounty Killer, Gyptian, and DJ Boom Boom.
Shaggy, managed by Martin Kierszenbaum/Cherrytree Music Company, debuted the song during a live performance on On the Radar Radio in late July. Reflecting on the project, Olaf Blackwood said, “The ‘Gunman’ riddim was one of my go-tos for stage shows as a youngster. Co-writing this song with Shaggy and bringing it full circle has been an amazing experience.”
Shaggy shared his admiration for Junjo Lawes, saying, “His music was synonymous with the sound system movement of the ‘80s and ‘90s. I wanted to recreate that vibe while adding some new ideas.”
The second single, “Rude Bwoy Sumthin,” by Junior Cat, also drops on August 22. Known as “The Wild Indian,” Junior Cat is a veteran of the sound system scene. His track pays homage to the original gangster persona of Dancehall, delivering raw energy and vivid storytelling.
Fans can also look forward to the release of Spice’s track on September 12th, as well as additional songs from the “Badman” riddim series. This latest collaboration between VP Records and Ranch Entertainment follows the success of Shaggy’s 2023 soca-inspired EP, In The Mood.
The “Gunman” riddim, known for its heavy brass and unforgettable drum and bass, gained fame as the instrumental behind Michael Prophet’s hit “Gunman,” a defining track of early ‘80s Dancehall. With the “Badman” riddim series, Shaggy aims to blend nostalgia with a modern twist, inviting a new generation of Dancehall lovers to experience the energy and culture of that era. Like traditional “juggling” projects, the series will feature multiple artists interpreting the same instrumental in their unique styles.
Stay tuned for more details on the “Badman” riddim project as Shaggy continues to innovate and honor Dancehall’s rich legacy.
