Reggae Icon Dennis Brown Is The Inspiration Behind ‘Outta Jamaica Riddim’ Project

The Have You Ever Been In Love track popularized by the late great Jamaican entertainer Dennis Emmanuel Brown in 1981 is the inspiration behind the Outta Jamaica Riddim project which has been gaining traction, charting worldwide including on the Jamaica Music Countdown.

Produced by Tasjay Productions the project is the brainchild of CEO, Tasjay James Smith who described Brown as one of his early musical influences.

Smith, shared that a part of his nostalgic memories of growing up in Jamaica, included listening to the great reggae icon.

He explained that irrespective of the passage of time, and even migrating to Canada, Brown’s music continues to inspire him, adding that the reggae genre, in general, has a timeless characteristic.

“Dancehall is for a certain age group, after which we fall back to good old Reggae music. This kind of sound appeals to all kinds of people either allowing them to reminisce or create new memories with the strong sound of this beat. That’s all we really want to do with music is inspire and edify people,” Smith said.

Smith also used the occasion to share details on how the riddim was created, adding that he went through great lengths to ensure that the project paid homage to Brown’s style, while at the same time being authentic and fresh.

For the remake, Smith’s production company employed the skills of the original musicians, for Brown’s track, Sly and Robbie to recreate the drum pattern for the new project.

The original drum pattern was coupled with elements from Firehouse Crew’s Paul “Wrong Move”; in addition to hiring engineer Delroy “Fatta” Pottinger to create a fresh version of the popular beat.

Smith further revealed that the project was somewhat hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic which created some challenges, namely the team was unable to get visuals.

However, throughout the new year, Smith says visuals will be released for the project in addition to the promotion of the 16 track project which features reggae artistes including; Anthony B, Luciano, and Little Hero.

Some of the stand out tracks on Outta Jamaica Riddim are Luciano’s New Sheriff, Rad Dixon feat. Teacha Dee with the uplifting Keep The Children Safe, and Horace Martin feat. Vonnii with Awake Jah Jah Children.