Let’s start this Reggae Month with a throwback of the “Vanity Riddim”
Alton Ellis Hits
The “Vanity Riddim” is another classic Reggae Riddim that has originated from the good old Rocksteady times. It probably is not as popular as the “Answer Riddim”, “Heavenless” or the “Stalag“, which sound much more singular and feature around 200+ cuts each.
Stream Conscious Vibes 19: Vintage Reggae Mixtape by Bob Marley, The Melodian, Errol Dunkley, Marcia Griffith, The Heptones, The Might Diamonds, Steel Pulse, Black Uhuru, Inner Circle, King Tubby, Dennis Brown, Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis, John Holt Hosted by DJ Supreme, Too Tuff Sound, Coast2Coast DJ's, Hostile Takeover. It is a relick of the “Mad Mad riddim” inspired by Alton Ellis‘s track of the same name produced by Studio One in 2967. If you like this version, also check out Gappy Ranks’ tribute to Tenor Saw‘s hit song “Golden Hen”. Brando – Be Kind02. Ed Robinson – You Are a Fool03.
The very first cut on the “Vanity Riddim” seems to be “I’m Just a Guy” by Alton Ellis, recorded by Studio One and pressed in 1967. However, due to the use of a defective press, the record was of poor quality and re issued later during the early 70’s. Ever since, the riddim has been remade and voiced several times for decades.
There are about a hundred cuts recorded on the “Vanity Riddim”. Among those records, there are tracks by artists such as Dennis Brown, Linval Thompson, Cocoa Tea, Prince Hammer andmany more. It’s a sweet rocking and lighthearted riddim that I invite you to listen to this weekend.
Do not hesitate to share it or comment. Let us know what you think of it and what’s your favorite cut.
Tracklist:
- Alton Ellis – I’m Just A Guy (1967?)
- Brian And Tony Gold – Sex Me (????) – Digital B
- Charlie Chaplin – Coco Dela Brown (????) – Powerhouse
- Cocoa Tea – Take Time (????) – Digital B
- Dennis Brown – Take A Stand (1998) – Mac Dada
- Dirtsman – It A Worry Them (????) – Digital B
- General Echo – Bathroom Sex (1980) – Techniques
- Prince Hammer – Good Morning Teacher (1976)
- Linval Thompson & Barrington Levy – Police & Soldier (1979) – Thompson Sound
- Ranking Trevor – Savalamar Rock (1978) – Socialist Roots
- Shabba Ranks – When Youre Up
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