Reggae Geel has unveiled the complete line-up for its Dub Forest stage for the 2026 festival edition. Spread across three festival days — July 30, July 31 and August 1 — the stage will host a powerful mix of UK soundsystem royalty, Jamaican cult legends, deep roots veterans, heavyweight producers and a strong selection of Belgian and European sounds.

The festival itself enters its 48th year in 2026 and continues to position Dub Forest as one of the most defining spaces within the event. Tickets are available through the festival’s official website.

Staying true to its community-driven ethos, Reggae Geel remains accessible to a wide audience. Children and young people under 16 will once again receive free entry in 2026. Special youth tickets are available for visitors aged 16 to 18, while residents from the surrounding area can purchase tickets at a reduced local rate.

Roots institutions and Jamaican icons

Leading the Dub Forest bill is King Earthquake, widely regarded as one of the foundational institutions in UK roots and dub. Founded by Errol Arawak in Birmingham in 1977, the sound remains synonymous with uncompromising roots-and-culture values, heavyweight bass and a foundation approach that has never chased trends.

Word, Sound & Power brings the authority of West London to Geel. The sound has built a reputation for its spiritual focus, sharp selections and deep, heavyweight pressure.

One of the most notable collaborations on the line-up is Dub Shepherds featuring Echo Minott. Minott is one of the defining voices of 1980s Jamaican dancehall, while the Dub Shepherds have built a solid reputation within the European dub scene through their live-and-direct, tape-driven approach powered by analogue sound. Together they bridge Jamaica’s vocal heritage with contemporary roots craftsmanship.

Adding further UK dub pedigree is David Judah, who brings more than four decades of production experience and the long-running Solardub Records catalog to the stage.

Jamaican cult figure Dr. Alimantado will also perform. The singer, deejay and producer remains forever linked to classic works such as Best Dressed Chicken in Town, a cornerstone album in reggae history.

Another standout name is Nadine Sutherland, a celebrated reggae artist with a remarkable personal legacy. She was the first artist ever signed to Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong label and later became one of the most recognizable female voices in dancehall.

European dub power and new voices

UK producer Gussie P, founder of Sip A Cup Records, also joins the program. Through decades of influential productions he has helped shape the deeper spectrum of British dub.

France’s Power Dread represents the handcrafted roots and dub tradition with a warm, militant and vintage-powered sound. From the UK, Vixen Sound brings another kind of energy: one of the most exciting selector voices in the contemporary scene, with international bookings and Scotland’s first fully female-powered soundsystem to her name.

Belgian sound Chalice Sound arrives with nearly three decades of soundsystem dedication rooted in Jamaican and British roots session traditions. Reemshot adds a younger French voice to the line-up, bringing spiritual focus and a clear love for conscious roots and dub. Meanwhile Blackbird Sound will celebrate its tenth anniversary at Europe’s oldest reggae festival.

Another notable collaboration comes from Rejoice Studio featuring Haroon Ayyaz. Rejoice has steadily developed a spiritual reggae identity through sound system, studio and label work, while Haroon Ayyaz has become a recognized roots and dub voice across the European scene.

Host sounds and soundsystem backbone

The stage’s host sounds round out the program. Waga Waga featuring King Samir, Jacky Roots & Ras Leo, Kingstep Soundsystem featuring Rueben Gondor, and Youth & Truth featuring African Simba provide the backbone every authentic soundsystem stage requires.

A community festival for everyone

Reggae Geel will expand to three full festival days in 2026. Despite that growth, the organizers emphasize that the core ambition remains unchanged: keeping the festival open, welcoming and affordable.

For decades, Reggae Geel has attracted visitors from across Europe thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, its multi-stage identity and its unique setting in the local woodland. Dr. Alimantado once described the event as “the most Jamaican thing outside of Jamaica.”

Each year around 40,000 visitors return, drawn not only by the artists but also by the distinctive mix of community spirit, openness and atmosphere.

More announcements coming soon

With the Dub Forest program now finalized — and the first artists such as Super Cat, Patoranking, Queen Omega, Anthony B and Tourist LeMC already announced earlier this year — the festival promises more additions soon. The full festival line-up will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Practical information

Reggae Geel
Thursday July 30, Friday July 31 and Saturday August 1, 2026
Festival grounds at Malosewaver, Geel, Belgium
Information and tickets: www.reggaegeel.com

The sweet sound of Cocoa Tea has fallen silent, but his music will forever sing in the hearts of reggae lovers worldwide. The legendary singer, known for his smooth vocals and conscious lyrics, has passed away at 65.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to the late artist, whose real name was Calvin George Scott, in a heartfelt Instagram post.

“His smooth vocals and compelling lyrics gave us timeless classics like Rocking Dolly and I Lost My Sonia—songs that have become cultural anthems,” Holness shared.

A Voice That Defined Generations

Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea became a household name in the reggae scene, initially gaining fame across the island before his music spread globally in the 1990s. His signature style—a seamless blend of laid-back melodies and socially conscious messages—made him one of the most beloved voices in reggae.

His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed to the Jamaica Gleaner that he suffered cardiac arrest early Tuesday morning in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Cocoa Tea had been battling lymphoma since 2019, a condition that worsened after developing pneumonia six months ago. Despite his struggles, his positive spirit never wavered.

“He was always hopeful,” Malvia Scott shared. “Even three weeks ago, while hospitalized, he reassured me that everything would be all right.”

A Legacy of Love, Peace, and Rastafari

Beyond his music, Cocoa Tea was a pillar of generosity and kindness, embodying the core values of Rastafarianism, which he embraced in 1985. His lyrics often reflected themes of love, unity, and social consciousness, leaving an indelible mark on reggae music and Jamaican culture.

Holness acknowledged his impact beyond music:

“Cocoa Tea was more than a musician—he was a beacon of hope who lifted up the less fortunate and proudly represented Jamaica on the world stage.”

His passing is a great loss to the reggae community, but his timeless music and uplifting message will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Rest in Power, Cocoa Tea.

During his energetic set, Boom Boom electrified the crowd with some of Mavado’s most iconic tracks, including I’m So Special and On the Rock. While the audience soaked up the nostalgic vibes, Boom Boom made a bold statement:
“Some people seh a Bounty and some seh a Beenie. But hear wah, me a seh a Kartel and Movado was the best,” he proclaimed, solidifying the Gully-Gaza era’s place in dancehall history.
“Nuttin neva bad like Gully and Gaza,” he added, sparking cheers from fans who lived through the unforgettable rivalry between the two giants.

As one of several selectors hyping the crowd ahead of Vybz Kartel’s long-awaited return to the stage, Boom Boom reminded everyone of the era’s unmatched energy. The Gully-Gaza rivalry not only shaped dancehall but created moments that remain etched in the genre’s legacy.

However, it’s worth noting that the Gully-Gaza rivalry wasn’t always friendly competition. In 2010, Boom Boom as official tour DJ of Mavado was beat up by Blak Ryno and his entourage for not playing Ryno’s songs during a party. This infamous incident highlighted the intense emotions and tensions surrounding the Gully-Gaza era at its peak. Despite this, Boom Boom has risen above the drama to become one of dancehall’s most respected selectors.

Freedom Street has drawn an impressive roster of both local and international stars, including the likes of Busta Rhymes, Spice, Skillibeng, Popcaan, Tommy Lee Sparta, and Chronic Law. With the stage set and the vibes flowing, the event promises to be a night to remember for dancehall fans worldwide.

The crowd erupted as Kartel, impeccably dressed in a three-piece pinstripe suit, made his grand entrance. His commanding presence immediately captivated the audience, who had eagerly awaited his return.

Kartel kept the energy high with a fiery performance of his Locked Up Remix, thrilling fans who had been counting down the moments to see the Dancehall King reclaim his stage. This marked his first Jamaican performance since his release from prison after serving 13 years. The deejay was acquitted in July, and his words resonated with gratitude:
“After 13 years, we deh yah, and we a give God thanks,” he declared while working the stage with undeniable charisma.

The night continued with Kartel delivering crowd favorites like Thank You Jah and Marie. He wasn’t alone in this triumphant moment—several stars he’s collaborated with over the years joined him onstage, including Rvssian, Jah Vinci, Shawn Storm, Sheba, and Gaza Indu. Together, they brought a wave of nostalgia, performing some of their most iconic tracks alongside the ‘Teacha.’

The spotlight then shifted to Dancehall’s Queen, Spice, who took the energy up another notch. With an arsenal of hits like Ramping Shop, So Me Like It, and Back Way, Spice had the crowd dancing non-stop, delivering a performance that kept the vibes alive and kicking.

As the night rolls on, performances from Skillibeng, Shatta Wale, and Popcaan are still on the horizon, promising to make Freedom Street an unforgettable experience.

Coolie Dance Riddim (Re)Mix

Step into the ultimate party vibes with the Coolie Dance Riddim (Re)Mix! Originally released by King of Kings in 2003, this remix-packed version takes the legendary riddim to new heights with MAD refixes and some of the biggest dancehall and reggae hits of the era. From Nina Sky’s iconic “Move Your Body” to high-energy tracks by TOK and Mr. Vegas, this mix is designed to keep the party going. If you’re ready for a riddim that’s built to hype the crowd, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This Mix

• Packed with Energy: Featuring high-tempo refixes and remixes guaranteed to light up any dance floor.
• Legendary Tracks: A blend of original riddim hits and reimagined versions of classics from top dancehall stars.
• Perfect for Parties: Mixed with precision to keep the vibes flowing seamlessly from start to finish.

The Tracklist

1. Everton Blender – Ragga Ragga Sound Intro
   A fiery start to set the tone for this epic mix.
2. Nina Sky – Move Your Body
   The chart-topping hit that’s still a dancefloor favorite.
3. Beenie Man – Row Like a Boat (Remix)
   Beenie brings the heat with a fresh take on a classic.
4. Elephant Man – Pon Di River, Pon Di Bank (Remix)
   Get ready to move with this high-energy remix.
5. Sean Paul – Get Busy (Remix)
   A refix of the anthem that dominated dancehalls worldwide.
6. Sean Paul – Gimme the Light (Remix)
   Another Sean Paul banger to keep the energy sky-high.
7. Sean Paul – Stick Like Glue (Remix)
   Smooth and addictive, this remix will have you hooked.
8. Vybz Kartel – Re Re Remix (Remix)
   Kartel’s lyrical genius shines on this riddim.
9. Wayne Marshall – True True True Re Re Remix
   A dynamic addition to this already stellar mix.
10. Cutty Ranks – Limb by Limb (Remix)
    Classic meets remix magic in this iconic track.
11. Bounty Killer – Badman Bible (Remix)
    Pure badness with a fresh spin.
12. Bounty Killer – I Am Who I Am (Remix)
    A bold and commanding presence in the mix.
13. Elephant Man – Good To To To To 222 Go! (Remix)
    Ele’s energy is unmatched in this refix.
14. Unknown – (Remix)
    A mystery track that keeps the suspense alive.
15. TOK – Unknown Language
    TOK’s signature style takes center stage.
16. Mr. Vegas – Pull Up!
    A certified hit that’s always ready to pull the vibes.
17. Buju Banton – Walk Like a Champion (Remix)
    A timeless anthem with a fresh twist.

How to Enjoy It

Stream the Cooly Dance Riddim (Re)Mix on YouTube or download the MP3 to experience the full energy and seamless transitions. Perfect for:

• Dancehall Enthusiasts: Dive into a mix that celebrates the genre’s finest.
• Party Playlists: Keep the crowd hyped with these high-energy tracks.
• Reggae Lovers: Experience classic tracks reimagined for today’s vibe.

Or download the MP3 at the bottom of this post.

Big Up the Dancehall Vibes

The Cooly Dance Riddim (Re)Mix is more than just music; it’s a celebration of dancehall culture and the energy it brings to life. With iconic tracks and MAD refixes, this mix is your ticket to a non-stop party. So turn it up, feel the bass, and let the riddim take control!

DJ Kaas’ 2002 Diwali Riddim Mix: A Nostalgic Trip Back in Time

The Diwali Riddim, a masterpiece produced by Steven “Lenky” Marsden, is undeniably one of the most iconic dancehall riddims of all time. Known for its Indian-inspired syncopated clapping, the riddim exploded onto the global music scene in 2002, powering hits like Sean Paul’s “Get Busy” and Wayne Wonder’s “No Letting Go.” As a tribute to this timeless riddim, I created a mix in 2002 that captures its electrifying essence while blending it with some creative remixes. Let’s dive into the tracklist and what makes this mix so special.

Tracklist

1. Wayne Wonder – No Letting Go
   One of the smoothest tracks on the riddim, this song became a worldwide anthem of love and dance.
2. Sean Paul – Get Busy
   A club banger that made its mark on dance floors globally, “Get Busy” solidified the Diwali Riddim’s dominance.
3. TOK – Top a topa (Galang Gal)
   TOK’s energetic vibes paired perfectly with the riddim’s vibrant claps.
4. Bounty Killer – Sufferer
   A track that adds depth and grit to the riddim, showcasing Bounty Killer’s lyrical prowess.

Remix Time!

While the original riddim is legendary on its own, this mix takes it a step further with unique remixes that bring a fresh perspective:

5. Fabolous – This is My Party (Diwali Remix)
   A seamless blend of hip-hop and dancehall, this remix gives Fabolous’ hit a Caribbean twist.
6. Beenie Man – I Don’t Give a Damn (Diwali Remix)
   Beenie Man’s energy amplifies the riddim’s danceability in this dynamic remix.
7. Bounty Killer – Highgrade Forever (Diwali Remix)
   A celebration of Jamaican culture and vibes, this remix pays homage to dancehall’s roots.
8. Buju Banton – Boom Bye Bye (Hip-Hop Remix)
   A creative reinterpretation of a controversial classic, layered over a hip-hop beat.
9. Buju Banton – Boom Bye Bye (Diwali Remix)
   Bringing Buju’s raw energy to the Diwali Riddim, this remix is both bold and captivating.
10. Baby Cham – Man a Man (Diwali Remix)
    Baby Cham’s gritty delivery finds a perfect home on this riddim, making it a standout track.

Why the Diwali Riddim?

The Diwali Riddim, featured on Greensleeves Rhythm Album #27, is credited for shaping the sound of early 2000s dancehall and beyond. Its influence extended into pop music, with artists from various genres incorporating its infectious beat. From Jamaican radio to international charts, the riddim’s legacy continues to thrive.

For me, the Diwali Riddim represented the perfect canvas to experiment with remixes and transitions, resulting in a mix that is both nostalgic and timeless. It’s a tribute to the golden era of dancehall, where creativity knew no bounds.

Listen to the Mix

You can relive the magic of this mix by streaming it directly on YouTube below:

Or download the MP3 at the bottom of this post.

A Classic Worth Revisiting

Even after more than two decades, the Diwali Riddim remains a cornerstone of dancehall music. This mix, crafted with care and creativity, is a celebration of its enduring influence. Whether you’re a dancehall enthusiast or new to the genre, this mix offers a vibrant journey through one of the best riddims in music history.

So turn up the volume, hit play, and let the Diwali vibes take over!

Hailing from Jamaica, Junior Kelly (real name Keith Morgan) gained major recognition for his conscious lyrics and uplifting message. Known for blending socially aware themes with infectious melodies, Junior Kelly earned a place among the top conscious dancehall artists of the late ’90s and early 2000s. While many fans might be familiar with “If Love So Nice” on the Stir It Up riddim, this special version on the WWW.COM riddim adds a harder, more energetic dancehall edge to the track.

The WWW.COM Riddim

Produced by Harvel ‘Gadaffi’ Hart and released on the Annex label, the WWW.COM Riddim emerged at the close of the ’90s—an era renowned for its boundary-pushing dancehall productions. This riddim is packed with powerful basslines and driving percussion, giving each tune that signature late ’90s dancehall flavor.

Who else is on the WWW.COM Riddim?

• Beenie Man & Anthony Red Rose – “Ruff Like We”
• Captain Barkey – “You Nuffi Bad Mind”
• Future Troubles – “Thug For Life”
• John Wayne & Lukie D – “Call The Police”
• Merciless – “What They Are Looking For”

And, of course, Junior Kelly with “If Love So Nice.” Together, these artists make the WWW.COM riddim a stellar piece of dancehall history.

What Makes This Version Special?

1. Rare Cut – This version isn’t the one that dominated the airwaves; it’s a harder-to-find mix that showcases Junior Kelly’s range as a dancehall artist.
2. High-Energy Sound – While the original has a more mellow groove, this WWW.COM riddim version delivers a tougher, more driving beat, adding a fresh twist to the classic lyrics.
3. Production Quality – Harvel ‘Gadaffi’ Hart and Annex label’s collaboration in the late ’90s set new standards for dancehall, blending traditional elements with forward-thinking production techniques.

Explore More Vinyl Vibes

Vinyl Vibes is all about rediscovering the tunes that shaped dancehall and reggae culture. If you enjoyed this feature, make sure to check out our previous edition on Ghost’s “Everytime I See You” (Okay Riddim) from 1999. Stay tuned for more hidden gems and vintage releases that keep the spirit of Jamaican music alive!

Enjoy Junior Kelly’s “If Love So Nice” on the WWW.COM Riddim—tell us what you think, and spread the word to fellow dancehall fans!

The dancehall community bids farewell to one of its brightest stars, Nardo Ranks. Born Gary Henderson, Nardo Ranks was a trailblazing deejay whose infectious rhythms and thought-provoking lyrics left an indelible mark on the genre. From his humble beginnings in Kingston to his rise as an international sensation, Nardo Ranks’s journey is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his craft. This tribute takes you through his illustrious career, highlighting his biggest hits and enduring contributions to dancehall music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Gary Henderson, better known by his stage name Nardo Ranks, hailed from the Dunkirk (McIntyre Villa) community in east Kingston, Jamaica. His passion for music ignited in the mid-1980s when he joined the Cave Man Hi Power sound system. This platform provided him with the opportunity to hone his skills as a deejay and connect with the vibrant dancehall scene.

In 1989, Nardo Ranks released his first song, Love To See The Girls, marking the beginning of a promising career. His energetic delivery and relatable lyrics quickly garnered attention, setting the stage for his future successes.

Rise to Fame: “Sound Boy What Happen”

Nardo Ranks’s collaboration with fellow Dunkirk native Wayne Wonder resulted in the dancehall hit Sound Boy What Happen, produced by the legendary Winston Riley. This track showcased Nardo’s ability to blend catchy hooks with socially conscious messages, resonating with audiences both locally and internationally.

Breakthrough Hit: “Dem A Bleach”

In 1992, Nardo Ranks achieved national and international acclaim with his seminal track, Dem A Bleach. Produced by the Taxi Gang on the iconic Bam Bam rhythm, the song addressed the prevalent issue of skin bleaching in Jamaica. Nardo Ranks used his platform to critique the societal pressures that led individuals to alter their natural complexion.

“When I did Dem A Bleach, it was in response to Buju Banton’s Love Mi Browning. Bleaching was just catching on at the time, and I wanted to highlight that in my song,” Nardo Ranks shared in a 2017 interview with the Jamaica Observer.

Dem A Bleach topped the RJR Top 40 chart for six weeks, solidifying Nardo Ranks’s position as a leading voice in dancehall music.

Continued Success: “Burrup” and Beyond

Building on the momentum of his breakthrough, Nardo Ranks released Burrup in 1993, produced by Soljie Hamilton. The single peaked at #16 on the Billboard Dance Music Maxi-Singles Sales chart, further expanding his reach into the American market.

In the same year, Profile Records, a New York-based independent label with strong hip hop ties, signed Nardo Ranks. Under this partnership, he released his acclaimed album, Rough Nardo Ranking, which featured a blend of dancehall rhythms and innovative production techniques.

Collaborations and Influence

Nardo Ranks’s influence extended beyond his solo work. His ability to collaborate seamlessly with other artists helped shape the sound of early ’90s dancehall. Tracks like Rikers Island and New Jersey Drive showcased his versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.

Veteran music industry insider Murray Elias, who worked with Nardo at Profile Records, reminisced:

“Nardo was an underrated deejay. He had a super-hot run in the early ’90s, where he not only delivered back-to-back dancehall hits but also saw every one of those hits cross over into the hip-hop world. They were massive hits in New York, both in the clubs and on the mix shows. Burrup, Rikers Island, New Jersey Drive, and Dem A Bleach were all innovative and groundbreaking classics. Working with Nardo on these projects was an absolute honor and privilege.”

Later Career and Ventures into Acting

In addition to his musical achievements, Nardo Ranks explored acting, appearing in films such as Jamaican Mafia and Jump Off. These roles allowed him to showcase his talent beyond the dancehall stage, further cementing his status as a multifaceted artist.

Throughout the years, Nardo Ranks continued to release music that stayed true to his roots while adapting to the evolving dancehall landscape. His dedication to the craft and his community remained unwavering, inspiring a new generation of artists to follow in his footsteps.

Legacy and Remembrance

Nardo Ranks leaves behind a rich legacy characterized by his impactful lyrics, infectious beats, and unwavering commitment to addressing social issues through music. His contributions to dancehall have influenced countless artists and will continue to resonate with fans around the world.

Colleagues and fans alike remember him not only for his musical prowess but also for his generosity and passion for uplifting his community. As Red Fox aptly stated on Instagram:

“Saddened to hear the passing of Nardo Ranks… My condolence to his family and loved ones. RIP DJ.”

Final Tribute

Nardo Ranks, in his late 50s, may have left us too soon, but his music remains a testament to his talent and vision. From the heart of Kingston to the global stage, his rhythms and messages have touched lives and sparked conversations that are as relevant today as they were decades ago.

As we honor his memory, let us celebrate the man who used his voice to entertain, educate, and inspire. Rest in peace, Nardo Ranks. Your legacy will continue to echo through the beats of dancehall music for generations to come.

The artist Ghost (real name Carlton Hylton) is renowned for his smooth, soulful voice and a vocal style that makes hearts skip a beat. During the ’90s, he made waves in the dancehall scene with melodic tunes that spoke directly to the ladies—earning him the nickname “Ladies’ Favorite.” Ghost has collaborated with numerous top names in Jamaican music and stood out with his sultry sound, easily transitioning between lovers rock and hard-hitting dancehall.

The Okay Riddim

“Everytime I See You” was recorded on the Okay Riddim, produced by Harvel ‘Gadaffi’ Hart and released under the Annex label. This late-’90s riddim is famous for its energetic, unmistakable dancehall vibe. Alongside Ghost, the Okay Riddim boasts contributions from Anthony B, Beenie Man (Forget You), Capleton (High grade), Cobra, General B, Junior Kelly, Merciless, Pinchers, and Roundhead, making it a true dancehall classic.

What Makes This Track Special?

• Rarity: “Everytime I See You” isn’t widely available, making it a real gem for collectors and fans of old-school dancehall.
• Ghost’s Vocals: His soulful style elevates the riddim, adding a romantic edge without losing the riddim’s signature drive.
• Production & Atmosphere: The collaboration between Harvel ‘Gadaffi’ Hart and the Annex label resulted in a distinctive sound that helped define the late ’90s dancehall era.

Looking Ahead: More Vinyl Vibes

With Vinyl Vibes, we’ll explore more classics, rare releases, and forgotten tunes that shaped the history of dancehall and reggae. Stay tuned for more hidden gems from the vinyl era, and immerse yourself in the unique sound of Jamaican music!

Enjoy Ghost – “Everytime I See You” on the Okay Riddim, and let us know what you think in the comments!

Dancehall Legend Nardo Ranks Passes Away

Nardo Ranks, the iconic deejay best known for his 1992 hit song Dem A Bleach, has tragically passed away. He died in Queens, New York, on December 22, as confirmed by colleagues through social media.

Tributes Pour In

Among those paying tribute was Red Fox, a veteran of the tri-state dancehall scene. Red Fox took to Instagram to express his sorrow: “Saddened to hear the passing of Nardo Ranks… My condolence to his family and loved ones. RIP DJ.”

Dem A Bleach: A Cultural Milestone

Dem A Bleach was produced by the Taxi Gang, utilizing the Bam Bam rhythm that fueled numerous hit songs of the era, including Murder She Wrote by Chaka Demus and Pliers. The track was a sharp critique of individuals who used acidic creams to lighten their skin, a prevalent issue at the time. The song resonated deeply, topping the RJR Top 40 chart for six weeks 32 years ago.

“When I did Dem A Bleach, it was in response to Buju Banton’s Love Mi Browning. Bleaching was just catching on at the time, and I wanted to highlight that in my song,” Nardo Ranks told the Jamaica Observer in an April 2017 interview.

Continued Success with Burrup

Following the success of Dem A Bleach, Nardo Ranks released Burrup in 1993, produced by Soljie Hamilton. The single achieved significant acclaim, peaking at #16 on the Billboard Dance Music Maxi-Singles Sales chart that year.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born Gary Henderson, Nardo Ranks hailed from the Dunkirk (McIntyre Villa) community in east Kingston. His music career began in the mid-1980s with the Cave Man Hi Power sound system. His first released song, Love To See The Girls, debuted in 1989.

He achieved a dancehall hit alongside fellow Dunkirk native Wayne Wonder with Sound Boy What Happen, produced by Winston Riley. However, it was Dem A Bleach that catapulted him to national recognition. The success of the track secured Nardo Ranks a contract with Profile Records, a New York-based independent label with strong hip hop connections. Profile Records released his album, Rough Nardo Ranking, in 1993.

Reflections from Industry Peers

Veteran American music industry insider Murray Elias, who worked with Nardo at Profile Records, reminisced about their collaboration:

“Nardo was an underrated deejay. He had a super-hot run in the early ’90s, where he not only delivered back-to-back dancehall hits but also saw every one of those hits cross over into the hip-hop world. They were massive hits in New York, both in the clubs and on the mix shows, and in the case of Burrup, on radio stations like KISS-FM and others up and down the East Coast. Burrup, Rikers Island, New Jersey Drive, and Dem A Bleach were all innovative and groundbreaking classics. Working with Nardo on these projects was an absolute honor and privilege.”

Beyond Music: Foray into Acting

In addition to his musical achievements, Nardo Ranks explored acting, appearing in films such as Jamaican Mafia and Jump Off. His versatility showcased his passion for the arts beyond the dancehall scene.

Legacy and Remembrance

Nardo Ranks, who was in his late 50s, leaves behind a rich legacy in the dancehall and reggae genres. His contributions, particularly through tracks like Dem A Bleach, have left an indelible mark on the music industry. As fans and fellow artists mourn his loss, his music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Rest in peace, Nardo Ranks. Your rhythms and messages will continue to echo in the hearts of many.