The dynamic nature of Jamaica’s recent musical output has lately become a popular topic of conversation. Artists and producers alike have been flavouring their music with not only traditional reggae and dancehall sounds, but with other genres to create an entirely unique sound. Though many find this to be a new feature of local music, it is no stranger to rising artist Royal Blu, who is known for ‘pushing the needle’ with his flows and sounds. The most recent product of his prowess is ‘G”, a trap hall song with an old-school dancehall beat at its heart. The single features Runkus, a labelmate at Delicious Vinyl Island, and is produced by J.L.L.
In addition to the trap hall beat, ‘‘G’ features a sample from the ‘Stalag Riddim‘, a classic dancehall riddim that rose to prominence in the 1970s. This blend perfectly accommodates the smooth rap flow that both artists are notorious for. The production of the beat was borne from a conversation between Blu and Runkus when they were selecting riddims to freestyle to during a sound system show. “I instantly thought of the Stalag Riddim, and these lyrics ended up fitting perfectly on it,” Blu said. “So, from the reception, it got at the show, Runkus brought up the idea to sample the riddim and have J.LL. produce it.” Blu describes ‘G’ as a song encouraging people to keep their energy consistent throughout everything. “Since doing music professionally, there have been many naysayers and people who didn’t believe in my sound or image,” he said. “People who avidly tried to block me out. So I’m really just expressing how people can switch up based on success and try to be a part of the ‘bandwagon’.”
The ‘G’ music video was shot on location at Royal Blu’s alma mater, Meadowbrook High. The opening scene displays a reenactment of popular sound system/deejay clash culture, a staple in music culture even at high school age. It also features cameos from rising artists Naomi Cowan, Leno Banton, Zhayna France, Stamma, Courtni, Tori Lattore, producer Markus Myrie and more. All clad in school uniforms and dancing in the courtyard after school, the visuals pay homage to how Jamaican culture is formed and maintained in schools; underscoring the old and new in the composition of the song’s beat. The video was directed by Fernando Hevia, and produced by the artists’ record label, Delicious Vinyl Island. The single was released on Friday, December 18 nd is now available across all streaming platforms.
