Five Dancehall Songs To Listen To This Week Instead Of ‘Gunman’ Tunes

Dancehall is not a monolithic culture, although judging from the weekly YouTube charts one would think that Jamaican consumers of the genre are all about “scamming” and “gunman” songs.  Many artists are making these creative choices because, for them, the less violent songs do not get the support from fans in Jamaica.

The numbers reflected on the Billboard and YouTube Charts as carried on World Music Views tell a different story. The most-streamed songs in Jamaica in the last year were Lighter by Tarrus Riley and Shenseea, and Lockdown by Koffee. Those songs were about love and having a good time even in the midst of a troubling time.

There have been other such songs since, with the chart-topping hit ingredients, but for various reasons including lack of marketing or promotion, they never got the attention they deserve.

Here are 5 songs to listen to this week that will expand your Dancehall experience.

Demarco And Stephen Marley – Dance My Stress Away

Although clubs are closed in Jamaica, this club banger is perfect for evening traffic, or on after a long day or if you want to just unwind with a drink in hand.

2. Yendry ft. Damian Marley – You

Yendry’s smooth vocals and Damian’s melody and flow will unlock your knock knees and have you dancing with your imaginary lover. It’s the perfect song for the shower because the hook will have you thinking you can sing.

3. Rytikal – Where I’m From

His flow is sick and honest. The purpose of music is to speak on behalf of the people you represent. Rytikal speaks for the ghettos of Jamaica. In case you don’t believe he calls out everyone at the end of the song.

4. Masicka – Love Story

Masicka surprised fans with this dancehall release. As a member of the new school of dancehall his logical step would be to compete with the current trends but this song takes a road less traveled in dancehall, vulnerability.

5. Blvk H3ro – Cool Runnings

I have asked several music executives and other guests on World Music Views, which artist is in their top 5 and many have said Blvk H3ro. He represents the new sound of reggae/dancehall. His latest song Cool Runnings shows off both his songwriting and delivery skills.

Bonus

Sean Paul and Sia – Dynamite

Self-explanatory, this song has all the ingredients and represents the best of dancehall.