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Since its auspicious debut in 2007, the Tad’s International Record’s compilation album, The Ultimate, has never disappointed. The latest edition, The Ultimate 2017, maintains its reputation. Scheduled for release digitally and on compact disc on December 2, it is a 19-song collection of hardcore dancehall songs and easy-listening reggae.
It contains songs from Mavado, Alkaline and Vybz Kartel, three of the biggest names in Dancehall for 2016. Mavado has four songs on The Ultimate 2017: Money, Girls & Fun, Lowe Mi, In God We Trust, and Farewell; the latter of which is a collaboration with Alkaline. Tad Dawkins, principal of Tad’s Record, said 2016 is a banner year for the ‘Gully God’. “Yes it was, and a very strong one and he will be a stronger force to reckon with next year. There has been resurgence in his popularity since he started recording in Jamaica once again” said Dawkins.
Vbyz Kartel has had a presence on The Ultimate series since its inception. He and Alkaline represent on The Ultimate 2017 with two solo songs each. Who Trouble Them and Training Wheel are Kartel’s songs. Alkaline contributes Block & Delete and Wha a Gwan. Interestingly, Kartel and Alkaline enjoyed good runs on the Billboard Reggae Album Chart in 2016 with King of the Dancehall and New Level Unlocked, respectively.
Coolest Summer, a massive hit for Ding Dong and Dexta Daps, and this sensational hit single is also part of the impressive musical collection. So too Wuk Off You Gal by Aidonia, Vershon’s Feeling High and the rib-tickling Frowzy Taxi Man from newcomer Grampa Entatain.
With ganja decriminalization blowing across Jamaica, it is only fitting that a ‘weed song’ is included. None better than One Draw, sung melodiously by Marcia Griffiths featuring Fab 5; this song is a modern take on the Rita Marley classic.
Tad Dawkins has no doubt that The Ultimate 2017 will be on the Dancehall/Reggae lovers’ menu for this Christmas and beyond. “It is one of our flagship various artistes compilations because of its popularity. It is one of the bestselling digital albums which have been produced by Tad’s Record,” he said.
Exeuctive Producers: Tad Dawkins, Tad Dawkins Jnr and Tadiem Dawkins.
Written by: Howard Campbell
Music fans worldwide were recently delighted when critically acclaimed reggae band Morgan Heritage announced the upcoming release of “Strictly Roots, the Deluxe Edition” just in time for the holiday season. The hit filled 2016 Grammy for Best Reggae Album now available for pre-order, will be released December 9th, 2016 featuring 4 bonus songs and 3 remixes.
