6 Caribbean DJ producers every Musician need to know
The Caribbean is a region rich in musical diversity and creativity. From reggae and dancehall to soca and calypso, the Caribbean has produced some of the most influential and innovative artists in the world. But behind every great artist, there is often a great producer who helps shape their sound and vision. In this blog post, we will introduce you to six Caribbean DJ producers who have made a significant impact on the music industry and deserve your attention.
King Jammy (Jamaica)
King Jammy is a legendary Jamaican record producer who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of digital reggae and dancehall music. He started his career as an apprentice to King Tubby, another influential Jamaican producer who invented dub music.
King Jammy revolutionized the sound of reggae in the mid-1980s with his use of drum machines and synthesizers, creating a new genre called “raggamuffin“.
He has produced countless hits for artists like Black Uhuru, Dennis Brown, Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killer and Beenie Man. He is also credited with launching the careers of many young talents such as Super Cat, Pinchers and Admiral Bailey.
Supa Dups (Jamaica)
Supa Dups is a Grammy-winning Jamaican producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, such as Drake, Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Eminem and John Legend. He is also a member of the production team Black Chiney, which blends dancehall, hip hop and R&B elements.
Supa Dups has a knack for creating catchy hooks and infectious rhythms that appeal to a global audience. Some of his notable productions include “Controlla” by Drake, “Work” by Rihanna feat. Drake, “Loyal” by Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne and Tyga, and “Grenade” by Bruno Mars.
Kerry Grant (Barbados)
Kerry Grant is a Barbadian producer who has been making waves in the soca scene with his innovative and versatile style. He is the founder of Platta Studios, a production house that specializes in soca music and other Caribbean genres.
Kerry Grant has produced hits for some of the most popular soca artists in the region, such as Machel Montano, Alison Hinds, Lil Rick, Edwin Yearwood and Patrice Roberts. He has also collaborated with international artists like Pitbull, Sean Paul and Shaggy. Kerry Grant is known for his fusion of soca with other musical influences such as EDM, afrobeat and latin.
Jon Baker (Jamaica)
Jon Baker is a Jamaican producer who has been involved in the music industry for over four decades. He is the co-founder of Gee Street Records, an independent label that signed artists like P.M. Dawn, Jungle Brothers and Stereo MCs in the 1980s and 1990s.
He is also the co-owner of Geejam Studios, a luxury recording studio and resort in Port Antonio, Jamaica that has hosted artists like Amy Winehouse, No Doubt, Björk and Gorillaz. Jon Baker has produced music for various genres such as reggae, dub, hip hop, rock and pop. He has also been instrumental in promoting Jamaican culture and tourism through his projects such as Geejam Collection and Island Outpost.
Steven Marsden (Jamaica)
Steven “Lenky” Marsden is a Jamaican producer who is best known for creating the Diwali Riddim, one of the most popular dancehall riddims of all time. The Diwali Riddim features a distinctive keyboard pattern that resembles the sound of firecrackers used during the Hindu festival of Diwali, hence its name. The riddim was first released in 2002 and spawned several international hit songs by artists such as Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, Lumidee, and Brick & Lace. The riddim is widely regarded as a classic in the dancehall genre and has influenced many other producers and musicians.
Rvssian (Jamaica)
Rvssian is a Jamaican record producer, songwriter and entrepreneur. He is best known for his work with artists such as Vybz Kartel, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Cardi B and Post Malone. He has produced several hit songs in genres such as dancehall, reggaeton, trap and hip hop. He is also the founder of Head Concussion Records, a label that has helped launch the careers of many Jamaican artists.
Rvssian started his music career in 2007, when he began making beats on his laptop. He soon caught the attention of Vybz Kartel, who became his mentor and collaborator. Together, they created songs such as “Life Sweet”, “Straight Jeans and Fitted” and “Jeans and Fitted”. Rvssian also worked with other dancehall stars such as Konshens, Popcaan and Spice.
In 2014, Rvssian expanded his musical horizons and ventured into the Latin market. He collaborated with Farruko on the song “Passion Whine”, which became a huge success and earned him a Latin Grammy nomination. He also produced songs for Nicky Jam, Arcangel, Daddy Yankee and Maluma. In 2017, he scored his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with “Krippy Kush”, a song by Farruko featuring Bad Bunny and Rvssian.
Rvssian has continued to work with some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as J Balvin, Cardi B and Post Malone. He has also launched his own clothing line called Rvssian Lifestyle, which reflects his unique style and vision. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and versatile producers in the world.
