Although he gave up music production for a regular job some time ago, Louis “Flabba” Malcolm still savours the rewards of his time in the business. The latest achievement is one of his songs being part of Sean Paul’s Grammy-winning album Dutty Rock, which was certified triple platinum in the United States.

Dutty Rock’s certification was issued by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on December 14, for sales exceeding three million copies.

Malcolm produced the track Concrete.

“Wow! I’m honoured to be a part of this body of work. It truly validates Sean as an incredible, iconic artiste and collaborative efforts of everyone who contributed to the success of this album,” the New York-based Malcolm told the Jamaica Observer on Friday.

Malcolm and Sean Paul previously worked on the track Next Generation (Headache ‘riddim’), which was featured on Stage One, the deejay’s debut album.

He described what it was like working with Sean Paul.

“In terms of recording he took longer than others to record. However, when finished we had a song well put together. His professionalism, dedication and commitment to getting the song right made my job as the producer much easier,” said Malcolm, adding he knew Sean Paul would become an international sensation.

“Even before working with Sean I’ve seen him as being different and on track for international stardom or recognition because he brought something authentic and unique. His sound, style and image was new and fresh to our industry at the time.”

Malcolm, who was born in the Bronx, New York to Jamaican parents, got into music production 26 years ago with the 007 ‘riddim’. His father owned a record store and label called Nu-Look Records which was based in his hometown.

He scored with two massive riddim projects, the Headache and the Hurricane which helped establish his Mo Music label in dancehall circles.

“Going into a very competitive industry that was dominated at the time by legendary producers could have been deemed intimidating or daunting. However, that inspired me to put out quality music to be comparable. The success of those riddims are validated to the fact that to date these songs have proven to be timeless as they are forever in heavy rotation, being played on airwaves, parties and events across the globe,” said Malcolm.

The Headache drove hits like its self-titled song by Elephant Man and Delly Ranks, Crazy Notion by Beenie Man, That Way by Christopher, and Penny We by Lexxus.

Among the hits that flowed from the Hurricane were Hunt You by Capleton, All I Have by Christopher, Word Roun Dem by Delly Ranks and Bad Man Nuh Pet Gal by Alozade and Kip Rich.

Malcolm has now given up the music business.

“I’m no longer involved in music but the cheques are still coming in so technically I still am,” he said.

Dutty Rock, released in November 2002, has been certified gold in Argentina, Australia, Denmark, Mexico, Sweden, Norway, and New Zealand. It has been certified triple platinum in Canada and the United Kingdom, while earning platinum certifications in Germany, Japan and Switzerland.

Producers Delroy Foster, Steely and Clevie, The Neptunes, Sly Dunbar, Tony Kelly, Jeremy Harding, and Richard Martin are others who also contributed to the album.