US-BASED Jamaican producer Froggy MaddSquad wanted to create a rhythm which had something for everyone. He feels he has accomplished his mission with Blue Book Riddim.

“It’s happy. It’s Caribbean. It’s dancehall. It’s soca. It’s world beat, all in one rhythm. There’s nothing like it out there in the market, right now,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

“I hope this rhythm reaches across all corners of the world and breaks barriers. We need to have more island artistes on the popular music charts worldwide.”

Released May 17, the 15-track Blue Book Riddim is on the Real Squad Records imprint. It’s available on all digital platforms.

The set boasts tracks from Wayne Wonder (Bring Your Body Come), Charly Black (Dancehall Bubbler), Notch (Bubble & Whine), Delly Ranx (Real Striper Whine), Patexx (I Will Survive), Alison Hinds (Bruck Out Gyal), and Happy Life from the producer himself.

Froggy MaddSquad said it wasn’t hard to get the artistes on the rhythm. “It wasn’t difficult at all. Me and all the artistes on the project have a great musical relationship…from Alison Hinds, Wayne Wonder and Delly Ranx… All are close friends of mine,” he said. 

Born in Montego Bay, Froggy MaddSquad (given name Omari Lawrence) migrated in 2004 to Orlando, Florida, where he still lives. He got his musical break in 2009 with the Basik Instink Riddim, which he co-produced with Madd Spider Productions.

“From that day, it was a no-brainer that music production was going to be my new love,” said Froggy MaddSquad.

He has subsquently released Hot Water Riddim, Champions League Riddim and Pretty Butterfly Riddim. Froggy MaddSquad had some advice for up-and-coming producers.

“They need to go and listen to some Sly & Robbie, Steely & Clevie, Bobby Digital and King Jammy’s. Then they will understand why the world fell in love with our dancehall music in the first place.”

— Brian Bonitto