Special Techniques: Winston Riley’s Ten Most Essential Tunes

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January 24, 2012


Dave and Ansell Collins, “Double Barrel” (1971)

One of the first true international reggae hits, this early Winston Riley production by Dave and Ansel Collins’ has influenced several different subcultures, most notably the British skinhead movement, which adopted it as an anthem, and hip-hop. (And it’s also the first song Sly Dunbar is said to have ever played on.) Samples of the song, specifically its colorful spoken-word intro, can be found in Golden Era rap classics like Special Ed’s “I’m the Magnificent” and Biz Markie’s “Goin’ Off.” Check out the Collinses performing “Double Barrel” to raving British teens on Top of the Pops, above.