One of the two most important artists in contemporary Jamaican music, Mavado is not as prolific as his rival Vybz Kartel, but is usually a shade more consistent. In 2010, one thing he definitely has on his side is his relationship with Stephen "Di Genius" McGregor, the son of the legendary singer Freddie McGregor, and (arguably) the island's leading producer. Since a much publicized falling out in 2009, the Genius has stopped working with artists from Kartel's "Gaza" crew, leaving Mavado the pick of his new riddims.
Released in June 2010 around the time Jamaica was declared to be in a State of Emergency, Change Right Now captures Mavado firmly in conscious mode, lamenting the violence, brutality and lack of opportunity in his small island. Stephen's production takes the song from a hip-hop influenced slow dancehall groove into a more traditional reggae sound as the tune progresses.
Few would consider this to be roots music, but for me, the roots aesthetic is definitely there, and I know this is one tune that won't be quickly forgotten like so much other modern dancehall.
Jesse I
Comments
good write up Jesse
Add a comment