Chronic Law, Valiant’s ‘Darkness,’ And 10 More New Songs
Jamaican music is off to a strong start with some really great singles to match the hope and determination that typically mark the first few weeks of the new year.
Chronic Law, Valiant – Darkness
This single is a good look for Dancehall and a great production by Droptop records. To have dancehall’s most consistent artist over the last two years, Chronic Law, on a track with the hottest artist, currently Valiant, is a major win for the genre. As always, Valiant is on point and inventive with the melody, to the point we can forget the song called Darkness is speaking about dark realities. The tone of the chorus and verses have a high-frequency feeling that give the usually dark ‘chappa’ lifestyle a more textured sound and feel as a result. (GT)
Devin Di Dakta, Libianca – People
Devin Di Dakta has an unofficial remix of Cameroonian-American singer Libianca’s People (Check On Me) , which is currently No. 2 on the US Afrobeats Song chart. It’s an emotional song from the perspective of someone struggling with mental health issues and abusing substances to cope. Devin brings a new perspective, that of a concerned friend willing to help, on his new remix. Devin is known for unearthing and presenting some of the harder discussions in our society in song form and here we can see him doing that to great effect. (GT)
Morgan Heritage – Just A Number
This brand new Morgan Heritage release is the lead single on XTM Nation’ Riddim project Special Request. The highly anticipated single by the grammy-winning artists is supported by an official video directed by Samo, as well as a lyric video by Joshua Solas. These veteran artists do what they are known for, which is to write, create and perform lyrics and melodies that make us wonder how they do it. (GT)
Dyani X Dj Verge – Reminiscing
Reminiscing is a gripping, honest story of secret regret, that many of us can relate to in private. Dyani fully explores his vocal range with this moderate but melodic pondering over a somber but serene production by Dj Verge. Often times when a vocalist is singing at the top of their voice, there are certain qualities we might miss because of the volume. I think by trying to match the quiet, contemplative nature of the story, Dyani also reveals a different consistency to his voice that makes this a great addition to his growing discography. It has a dancehall blues vibe that is ironically ‘remniscent’ of Tanya Stephens’ 2016 smash hit It’s a pity. It’s great addition to a quiet, introspective playlist. (GT)
Aidonia – Faith
A bereaved Aidonia demonstrated an act of strength this week as he appeared in touching visuals for his new single Faith. In the song, which is a dedication to his late son Kahlif Lawrence, the 4th Genna artist urges listeners to keep the faith in all things, singing on the hook, “faith move mountains, every blessing, count them, while promising, “close doors open.” (CB)
Jahvillani – Make It Rain
Jahvillani is back popping “rubberbands” in new release titled, Make It Rain. The artist teamed up with Lagiks Supreme for visuals observing the street life and strip club culture while swaggering with his riches. (CB)
Jahshii – Dawgs Dem
Jashii is living his best life these days post-poverty and wants the world, and especially his haters, to know. The video for his new single Dawgs Dem shows his upgraded lifestyle as he shares his wealth with his closest friends. (CB)
Teejay – Visa
Teejay, in his new track Visa, produced by Sweet Music Production, is focused more than ever and is all about “doing it big.” “Mi stop pree life like retard,” he sings while sharing his future hopes of ‘putting a big house on the hill’ (CB)
Bounty Killer – Watch Yuh Mouth
Bounty brings out his alter ego ‘The Warlord’ to tackle an adversary in his latest track Watch Yuh Mouth. Spitting clash-ready librettos like, “pvssy watch yuh mouth! … caz mi glock dem chip up, rifle dem clip up, nuh weh too far fi we reach!” the deejay induces fear with his signature resounding bars. (CB)
Yaksta – Alchemist
In his first single from his upcoming debut album, Yaksta says he, “Foresees a change like the Alchemist,” having asked God for a change, and he answered. Staying true to his usually uplifting narratives, the singer tells listeners to keep their “circle small” and that working hard will bring great success. (CB)
HoodCelebrityy – Im Back
HoodCelebrityy brings back Black Shadow’s 2001 Buzz riddim (Sean Paul’s Gimme The Light, Mad Cobara’s Press Trigger, Sizzla’s Pump Up) for her new track, I’m Back. Spitting a quick lyrical set on the old-school sound, the New York-based Jamaican rapper dishes her ‘bag gyal’ threats; “Hand pon di trigger if a boy try diss me, squeeze it back and give him bout 50. Mi run New York .. Nuh gyal ca’nt see me and violate, Mi will set that bloodc@@t real straight.” And, “Mi make gyal get sick, take panadol …” (CB)