For his first project as a producer, CK Pragmatic was determined to show a different side to dancehall music. He wanted to give some unheralded artistes an opportunity on his Basal T Riddim album, which was released in February.

It contains eight songs by first-timers such as Ellygan, as well as journeyman acts like Frassman Brilliant, Powerman, Ghandi and Speng Beng.

“All the artistes that were included on this ‘riddim’ project we go way back. I know their potential and they are unique in their own style. All of them went hard and delivered what I feel is a top-shelf project that dancehall lovers at home and abroad will love,” CK Pragmatic told the Jamaica Observer. “They may not yet have the name recognition of a Popcaan, Govana or Masicka, but they are just as talented.”

The New York-based singjay said the idea for the Basal T came from Ellygan, who is a radio disc jockey in New York. He encouraged CK Pragmatic to start producing, but make exposing aspiring or unsung artistes the focus of his productions.

“It was a lightbulb moment and I ended up taking his advice,” said CK Pragmatic.

Do mi Thing is Ellygan’s debut recording. CK Pragmatic does Fake Friends, Ghandi contributes Eye Openah and Speng Beng does Musky Gun.

Reverse by Frassman Brilliant and Powerman’s Gymnastic are also on the Basal T.

Formerly known as Cement Kid, CK Pragmatic (real name, Winston Francis) is from Manchester and has been recording since the 1990s. Two years ago, he changed monikers for The Next Chapter, his first album.

He believes the Basal T Riddim album has met its objectives.

“I wanted it to be a compilation of different artistes and topics. I wanted to be creative and produce something that I am confident can go the distance,” said CK Pragmatic.

— Howard Campbell