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Who is the King and Queen of Dancehall in Jamaica?
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By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer
There was a time that Reggae music was considered the official music of Jamaica, and in some ways, it still is, however Dancehall, which is a child of Reggae is certainly more mainstream on our island. With its infectious beats, catchy melodies, and energetic dance moves, dancehall has managed to capture the hearts of music lovers worldwide as well.
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A debate that sparks every now and then in Dancehall, is who deserves the title of King and Queen of Dancehall.
The King of Dancehall: Beenie Man
Anthony Moses Davis, popularly known as Beenie Man, stands tall as the undisputed King of Dancehall. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1973, Beenie Man began his musical journey at a tender age, showcasing his talent on various local sound systems. With his charismatic stage presence, quick-witted lyrics, and unmatched versatility, he has dominated the dancehall scene for over two decades.
Beenie Man's illustrious career spans numerous hit singles, including "Who Am I (Sim Simma)," "Dude," and "King of the Dancehall." His musical prowess has earned him international acclaim, resulting in collaborations with renowned artists like Janet Jackson, Wyclef Jean, and Bounty Killer. Beenie Man's ability to seamlessly fuse traditional dancehall with other genres has enabled him to maintain relevance in an ever-evolving music industry.
Beyond his musical achievements, Beenie Man is revered for his role in shaping dancehall culture. He has served as a mentor and inspiration to emerging talents, sharing his knowledge and experiences to further the genre's growth. With his distinctive voice and infectious charm, Beenie Man continues to reign supreme as the King of Dancehall.
Should the King of Dancehall title now be given to Vybz Kartel?
Adidja Azim Palmer, better known as Vybz Kartel, is undoubtedly one of the most controversial and influential figures in modern dancehall. His unique style, prolific output, and charismatic persona have garnered him a massive following both in Jamaica and internationally. Many fans and industry insiders argue that Kartel's impact on dancehall surpasses that of any other artist, including Beenie Man. Supporters of Vybz Kartel's claim to the throne point to his extensive discography, which includes numerous hit songs such as "Romping Shop," "Fever," and "Clarks." Furthermore, Vybz Kartel's ability to connect with younger audiences and his dominance in the digital space has propelled him to the forefront of dancehall's evolution. His influence on the dancehall landscape, particularly among the new generation of fans and artists, is seen as a testament to his enduring impact.
On the other hand, proponents of Beenie Man's continued reign as the King of Dancehall argue that his contributions to the genre over several decades cannot be overlooked. Beenie Man's versatility, longevity, and widespread recognition make him a formidable contender for the crown. His extensive catalogue of hits, his stage presence, and his influence on dancehall's global popularity are all significant factors in solidifying his position as the reigning king.
The Queen of Dancehall: Spice
While the crown of the Queen of Dancehall has been worn by several influential artists, it is the incomparable Grace Hamilton, better known as Spice, who currently holds the title. Born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, Spice burst onto the scene in the early 2000s, captivating audiences with her bold lyrics, captivating performances, and unapologetic attitude.
Spice's rise to prominence can be attributed to her hit songs such as "So Mi Like It," "Sheet," and "Needle Eye." Her electrifying stage presence and provocative dance moves have made her a force to be reckoned with in the dancehall realm. Spice fearlessly addresses social issues and challenges stereotypes through her music, empowering women and sparking important conversations.
Beyond her musical prowess, Spice's influence extends beyond the realm of dancehall. She is known for her entrepreneurial spirit, successfully launching her makeup line, Faces and Laces, and starring in the reality TV show, "Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta." Spice's ability to connect with her fans and transcend boundaries has solidified her position as the reigning Queen of Dancehall.
Lady Saw Vs. Spice for the Crown
Lady Saw, known for her explicit lyrics and bold performances, held the title of Queen of Dancehall for many years. However, in recent times, she underwent a significant transformation, both in her music and personal life. Lady Saw announced her conversion to Christianity and changed her stage name to Minister Marion Hall. Some are of the belief that Spice has not outdone Saw in the dancehall industry and despite Saw no longer being a dancehall artist she still holds the title of Dancehall Queen.
So who is the king/queen of dancehall in Jamaica? Both Beenie Man and Spice have been officially crowned at the largest Jamaican music festival, Reggae Sumfest, in 2009 and 2022 respectively, giving them the official title.
Both artists have contributed significantly to the genre's evolution, captivating audiences with their unique styles, powerful performances, and unwavering passion. Beenie Man's longevity and versatility have made him a stalwart figure, while Spice's fearless approach and empowering messages have propelled her to the forefront of the genre.
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References & Sources For Who is the King and Queen of Dancehall in Jamaica?
- Beenie Man Biography, Songs, & Albums | AllMusic. (n.d.). AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/beenie-man-mn0000788508/biography
- Johnson, M. (2022, July 25). Spice’s journey to become ‘Queen of the Dancehall’ - Our Today. Our Today -. https://our.today/spices-journey-to-become-queen-of-the-dancehall/
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