A recording artiste since the 1980s, Peter G says experience has taught him a lot about selecting what rhythms to record on.

With a flood of dancehall-reggae beats released annually, that can be a tough process.

The veteran singer’s latest song is Not Taking No.

The track is recorded on producer Hopeton Lindo’s Favorite rhythm and was released in February by the Irie Pen Records.

In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer he spoke about his method for rhythm selection.

“My usual approach is to listen to the rhythm and vibe with it, find a nice melody and then the storyline to write the lyrics. Consistency with a producer can enhance musical chemistry, but variety can also bring fresh perspectives,” he said.

Not Taking No is his latest project with Lindo, one of contemporary dancehall-reggae’s prolific songwriters.

In recent years, he has contributed to several Irie Pen Records compilation projects such as the company’s Feel It Christmas album.

For easy listening songs like Not Taking No, Peter G believes producers must present beats that complement that sound.

“Key ingredients for lovers’ rock often include romantic lyrics, smooth melodies, and a relaxed tempo,” he said.

Six artistes recorded songs on the up-tempo Favorite, which is performed by the Heavybeat Crew. Lindo, Sanchez, Novel-T, Anthony Malvo, and INique are the other acts.

Peter G (given name Peter Gayle) got into the music business shortly after graduating from Holy Trinity High School. Over the years he has recorded extensively with Lindo, songwriter/producer Mikey Bennett, and Sly and Robbie.

He has also toured the United States and Europe several times with the latter.

— Howard Campbell