Playground Riddim [1997] (2Hard Records)

Artist(s): <a href="https://www.jamworld876.net/?post_type=artist&#038;p=22686" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Various Artists
Genre: Dancehall
Produced by: <a href="https://www.jamworld876.net/?post_type=producer&#038;p=22876" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jeremy Harding
Label: <a href="https://www.jamworld876.net/?post_type=record_label&#038;p=22880" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 Hard Music
Release date: 1997

“Playground Riddim,” produced by Jeremy Harding for 2Hard Records in 1997

A 2Hard Records production

In 1997, Jeremy Harding for 2Hard Records produced the “Playground Riddim” is among one of my top 20 favorite riddims of the late 90’s. It should definitely be ranked as a Dancehall classic.

In terms of composition, the riddim is rather simple, but put together so brilliantly that it catches your attention right away, from the first bars. It is based on a mysterious and dark-sounding sample taken from The Roots’ track titled “Section”, released in 1996.

The melody of the deep synth bass that mimics the drum beat is really one of a kind. This riddim sounds heavy despite being quite minimalistic compared to nowadays riddims.

Features an awesome track list

The various-artist compilation features: Beenie Man, Mr Vegas, Sean Paul, Mad Cobra, Merciless and more (Click here to view track list).

The “Playground Riddim” includes “Who Am I” by Beenie Man, which is one of the first single that launched the self-crowned “King of the Dancehall”. The track was such a hit, it even reached the TOP 50 Billboard Charts in 1997. It also features “Infiltrate” that is one of the best tracks off Sean Paul‘s debut album and the very good “Nike Air” by Mr Vegas.

Even though the “Playground” might not be ranked as a classic yet, it is a very good riddim. Do not hesitate to heck it out now. Let us know what’s your favorite track on it.