Best Alkaline Songs: 30 Essential Tracks From Dancehall’s ‘Youngest Lawd’

Alkaline carved a distinct path for himself in Dancehall music from the very moment he broke out in 2013. His unique style, lyrical talent, and clever controversial tactics have kept his fan base engaged and growing, both locally and internationally. The Billboard Reggae chart-topper is now hailed as one of the greatest Dancehall entertainers of the decade, which is further solidified by the impact of his catalog.

So, if you’re looking to get into Alkaline—read on, and check out this 30-track sample of his most essential songs, in no particular order.

1. My Side of the Story (2016)

Alkaline poured his heart out on My Side of the Story, earning the first of many hits in 2016. Never shying away from creating music infused with a strong sentimental overtone, he pleads with his partner to not throw their love away, as he vies for one more chance with her, presenting all the reasons why they shouldn’t break up. The track, produced by Good Good Productions, shows the many sides of the artist; his impressive delivery, clarity, lyrical potency as a deejay, and his ability to switch effortlessly into a melodic tone to perfectly suit a song laced with intimacy.

2. On Fleek (Love Yuh Everything) (2015)

The fast-paced Money Me a Look riddim set the mood for this sexually-charged 2015 hit. Noted as one of the singles that opened the door for Alkaline’s success internationally, On Fleek, which uses the alternate title Love Yuh Everything, has all the components of a racy dancehall track. Advancing far beyond mere attraction, the deejay takes listeners along with him to an enthralled and seduced state as he outlines all the things he loves about his romantic partner, with emphasis placed on her physical attributes.

3. 123 (2013)

A double entendre sweeps through the entirety of this 3-minute track as Alkaline brags on his ability to woo multiple women at once and the ease with which he does it. Listed among his first hit singles, the VP Records-produced song further mirrors just how the entertainer captures, continuously, the interest and devotion of his vendetta-named fan base, which had already begun to enshrine the wildly popular and talented dancehall icon.

4. Things Take Time (2014)

2014 saw the official release of Things Take Time which was followed by a steamy music video, directed by Simeon Hedge, in 2015. Throughout the track, Alkaline sticks to his notion that time is the master of all things, including his romantic involvement with a woman who claims to be uninterested in the beginning. Alkaline promises her, however, that soon enough they’ll be together. His persistence pays off and by the end of the song’s first chorus, he announces his status has upgraded to “man a yaad”—the man in her life.

5. Weh Wi Ago Do (2014)

Alkaline delivered a meditative ambiance that hit home for many Jamaicans upon the release of Weh Wi Ago Do. Produced by NotNice, the single is a sincerely brutal reminder of the economic woes faced by the nation’s lower class. He earnestly calls upon the country’s leadership to help ease the burdens of the citizens, at the same time admitting defeat in the face of adversity, as he expresses little hope that things will change.

5. Block & Delete (2016)

The message in Block & Delete is made clear within the first 15 seconds of the Chimney Records-produced track. The catchy melody of the tune is in no way meant to conceal Alkaline’s unapologetic candor as he reminds one of his romantic interests that she is in no way obliged to stay with him—”Yuh can leave if yuh wah leave”, is his position. The cause of his passivity? “More gyal still a come”.

7. Load Up (2016)

The risks of success form the foundation of the hit song that is Load Up. Released on the Levels Riddim, produced by Yellow Moon Records, in 2018, Alkaline gets candid about the envy that oftentimes plagues society—the nefarious green-eyed monster that seeks to disable those who were lucky enough to achieve their dreams. This harsh but true realization keeps him in a wary state and prepared to defend himself, although he makes it clear that leaving an honorable legacy is more valuable to him than violence.

8. Ride On Me (2015)

In Ride On Me, Alkaline bares his heart and soul through raunchy and uncensored lyrics as he details the passionate sexual relationship he shares with his partner. Each emotion and bodily reaction is recounted, leaving no room for speculation about the intimacy shared between the two. DJ Frass Records handled production on this hit track which was released in 2015. It made way for the 2017 remix with hitmaker, Sean Kingston.

9. Extra Lesson (2016)

2016 was a major year for the ‘Young Lawd’ who churned out hits consecutively, and Extra Lessons shined like a gem among them with a beat just as memorable as the hard-hitting lyrical content. In Jamaican society, the controversial term ‘gyalis’ was coined to describe a man who engages in romantic relations with multiple women. Alkaline brags that his ”style and pattern” is the reason he excels in this area and chastises those who fail to meet the mark.

10. Ocean Wave (2020)

Much like the title, the composition of Ocean Wave carries listeners into a serene and hopeful state of mind. Alkaline does a remarkable job at using his life story, captured through the song’s impassioned lyrics and equally emotive instrumental of soft string pads, piano melodies, and consistent drums, to connect with his fans on an even deeper level. He tells of his path to success, harking back to the struggles his family faced when he was a child and the diligent self-belief required of him to bridge the gap that led to his now-iconic status.  Produced by Javi of Tru Ambassador, Ocean Wave was included on Alkaline’s sophomore album, Top Prize which was released in 2021.

11. Spoil You (2016)

Alkaline is a complete gentleman in Spoil You, teaming up with Yellow Moon Records in 2016, for yet another mega-hit. He sings of a special girl who fits his criteria; beauty, intelligence, and an alluring personality, all of which give him no choice but to shower her with his attention, show her off, and plan a future with her. Alkaline once again places his versatility on full display, using his voice like a true instrument to sway between melodic flows, with vocal sustains indigenous to his signature sound which he produces so “well, well, well, well.”

12. Fast (2017)

Alkaline keeps his foot on the gas pedal, delivering punch lines with fast-paced rapping in a record time of 3 minutes and 40 seconds for this 2017 hit. Fast reaches its climax from the very first verse, changing gears throughout but never losing momentum. During the song, Alkaline likens his career and influence to an “aircraft” that starts at the push of a button without ever slowing down, allowing him to accelerate past his naysayers. He acknowledges that his own imperfections and life’s uncertainties make the road before him unpredictable but his confidence in his destiny makes him unstoppable.

13. ATM (2015)

With more fame comes more money and Alkaline makes it clear that wealth is his main priority in ATM—All About the Money. He adds, however, that this is no unrequited love; opening the chorus with “I’m all about the money” and closing the 12-line refrain with “And the money all about me”. He goes on to reference the double-edged sword that is fame, reveling in its benefits while also conceding that it has made him a target for negativity.  ATM was included in Alkaline’s 15-track 2016 album, New Level Unlocked which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.

14. Suave (2017)

Alkaline joined forces with Chimney Records for this dancehall, hip-hop-infused banger—Suave.  It was released as a single in October 2017 and comprises three equally immaculate verses and a catchy pre-chorus that has fans welcoming the refrain as if it were the first time they were hearing it. Alkaline capitalizes on the 5 minutes 5 second-track, packing each verse with fresh lyrics about how impactful his style is. He concludes that he is simply in his own league, and immortalized because of it.

15. Live Life (2013)

In Live Life, Alkaline liberates himself of all non-self-serving opinions, remaining resolute to live his life the way only he sees fit. Released during his debut year, 2013, A fresh-sounding Alkaline is heard setting the tone for his now decade-old music career, that he is unmoved by critics and a free-thinking anomaly. Throughout the track, he assumes and maintains a judgment-free stance, imploring others to do the same.

16. Impact (2017)

Since the inception of his career, that’s what it’s been about; leaving an impact.  Impact was released in 2017, and no fair-thinking person would argue with a single line from the track.

17. 12PM (2016)

The story of a brutal reprisal unfolds in 12 PM, as Alkaline engages in a heated confrontation with his enemies. As described by the Vendetta Boss, the confrontation ends in an onslaught with his side left standing. He shows no mercy, maintaining a fearless demeanor, and when it’s all over, he resorts to enjoying the fruits of his labor in the song, which has the alternate title Living Good.

18. Pretty Girl Team (2017)

Two things are made certain here; Alkaline has a special team for his romantic interests and as with any team, there is a benchmark. The track was produced by Armzhouse Records in 2017 and centers around a particular girl who arouses his curiosity with a certain quality that secures her a spot. Alkaline doesn’t make listeners ponder for too long on how she won him over instantaneously, as he starts the chorus, “Pretty girl wid a body weh woulda mad anybody. Yo mi did affi put her pon mi team.” The link with the track’s title is made there and then but that’s not the only aspect of the hit song worth noting—the beat and Alkaline’s flow are captivating alike which keeps the tune exciting and one his fans keep on repeat.

19. With the Thing (2019)

Alkaline teamed up with ZJ Chrome of CR203 Records for this 2019 release in which he addresses the disloyalty of those he once saw as friends. He admits the revelation of their undercover schemes was a hard pill to swallow but faces the reality head-on. He compares their ‘friendship’ to a script that actors follow, making a reference to the fantasy film character, Harry Potter, to drive his point home.

21. Champion Boy (2016)

Yellow Moon Records proved instrumental in the early years of Alkaline’s career. In 2016, Champion Boy was released and fans loved every bit of it. The track is featured on his debut album, New Level Unlocked, and it perfectly heralded his fast rise within three years. “Dem did a seh me career soon dead. A two years now and me never feel more alive,” he sings in the first verse.

21. In This World (2017)

For In This World, Alkaline chose a mellow flow, smooth harmonies, and a reggae beat to get his point across. He addresses the difficult life many endure in Jamaica but resolves that things would be much easier if a mindset shift were to take place. Alkaline calls out the ‘crab inna barrel’ mentality that some foster, which makes it hard for persons to excel due to the envy of others. He also laments the rising murder rate, prevalent among inner-city youths while holding security forces accountable for systemic corruption.

22. City (2016)

Alkaline’s intent for New Level Unlocked couldn’t be any clearer with City being the second track of the album. He was, indisputably, dancehall’s main trendsetter when the track was released in 2016 and he makes sure to reiterate that fact throughout the hit record. City is laced with clever punch lines, witty lyrics, and sarcastic jabs. He also name-drops famous Hollywood celebrities that he believes would fit this ‘new level’.

23. Red Eyes (2017)

Released in 2017 on the La Vida Riddim, Red Eyes has a moderate to fast tempo which complements the change in Alkaline’s rhythmic flow as he transitions from the verse to the chorus. Lee Milla Productions is behind this hit song which details Alkaline’s ongoing battle with the effects of his success. He can do no right in the eyes of those who are intimidated by him. Nevertheless, their threats fail to faze him as he is far more persuaded by the potency of his own impact.

24. After All (2016)

A small crew has to look out for all its members—that’s why Alkaline is warning those who pose a threat that he is ready and willing to defend his own in his 2016 track, After All. In a tone of urgency, he promises that he is always prepared for a fight and that his love and loyalty make it impossible for him to leave his ‘family’ unprotected from enemy forces.

25. Juggernaut (2018)

In Juggernaut, Alkaline tackles his enemies, telling listeners he appreciates all the struggles since the start of his career because it has made him a better man now.  Released in 2018, the song was produced by Johnny Wonder & Adde Instrumentals.

26. How It Feel (2014)

Produced by DJ Frass, How It Feel is another of Alkaline’s hits from 2014.  “How it feel, Seh shi like how it feel, When a bad man a f-ck she, Mi know yo like how it feel
Seh shi like how it feel, 100% security,” he croons on the chorus.

27. Company (2016)

Company was another hit in the 2016 run, but was not on the New Level Unlocked album.  Alkaline teamed with up producer Anju Blaxx on Zen Riddim for this banger, which many fans say is their go-to song “to set the mood right”.

28. Gyal Bruk Out (2014)

Produced by NotNice in 2014, Gyal Bruk Out is said to be the original cause of the animosity between Alkaline and the Warlord Bounty Killer, which still lingers in 2022.  Killer had called out Alkaline for the “dirty” lines in the song, particularly: “Tonight every gyal a turn a devil, Turna a dutty freak, turn a john crow”.  Alkaline then released a song titled  Anywhere We Go in which he “dissed” Bounty Killer and selector Foota Hype, saying: “no gyal caan clown man dawg, afta mi nuh Killa or b-tyman Foota Hype”.

29. One More Time (2016)

Off DJ Frass’ All Inclusive Riddim, One More Time is another of Alkaline’s well-loved hits.  The song was among those selected for the Haute Paris runway during the first major collection of Paris Fashion Week’s menswear season in 2022.

30. Formula  (2016)

Formula was released on the heels of the New Level Unlocked album in 2016 and is, undoubtedly, one of Alkaline’s best songs. “Mi legacy will never die I swear. Dem a bawl already and me d’even inna mi prime, I swear. Come in like mi born before mi time I swear,” he brags in the track, but he is yet to match his 2016-2017 run.