We’re coming up on Labor Day weekend, which means it’s time for Caribbean music to have its moment in New York City. In the mix as ever is Bobby Konders, don dada of the Massive B sound system and record label; Brooklyn’s Fire Sundays party; and NYC’s toppa top dancehall program, Hot 97’s On Da Reggae Tip. If you’ve ever been in New York for Labor Day, you know that after the parade itself, the most important event of the event of the weekend is Bobby, Jabba and the Massive B crew’s On Da Reggae Tip concert, which this year relocates to Governor’s Island with Machel Montano, Barrington Levy, Assassin, Konshens Collie Buddz, Gyptian and Kranium in tow. Held annually on the Friday night before the holiday, it sets the tone for a weekend full of dancehall, reggae, soca and all manner of bashment vibes in the world’s greatest city. For this week’s Selector’s Choice column, we asked Bobby to weigh in his picks for this year’s big Labor Day anthems.
Mr Vegas – Can’t Stop Your Blessings
This is a song for the independent ladies on the Liquor Riddim, one of the latest, baddest riddims out.
Vershon – Inna Real Life
Vershon is a new rising star in the dancehall, and this is one of the hottest songs in the dancehall right now.
Ding Dong – Low Me
“Lowe Mi” on the Happy Hour riddim is a song and dance that is crossing over to the hip-hop community, as the riddim has been BIG!
Vanessa Bling – Future Guaranteed
Vanessa Bling aka Gaza Slim has the #1 song that the ladies love in the dancehall right now, with “Future Guaranteed.” I think Vanessa is a young rising star!
Kranium – Nobody Has to Know (Remix feat. Ty Dolla Sign) + Lifestyle
These two songs have been out for a while, but they continue to play and grow to the hip-hop DJs. Kranium has a great future ahead of him.
Gyptian – All On Me
“All on Me” on the High Life riddim is a song that once you hear it, you wanna continue to listen. This could be Gyptian’s next BIG Smash with proper promotion.
Kabaka Pyramid – Well Done
Reggae songs now… The message is in the music, mi politician! Roots rockin’ reggae!
Jesse Royal – Finally
This is a national anthem inside Massive B’s Fire Sundays party. Respect to all my herbalists!