In 2004, a new generation of ambitious artists was revitalizing Dancehall, which was gaining global recognition following Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock album released November 2022 which sold 65,000 the first week. The album’s hit promotional singles released in 2003, further propelled the project which entered at No. 26 on the Billboard 200 Chart and went on to peak at No. 9.
This made every dancehall artist with access to a studio in line to get a record deal and release an album in 2004 while Paul was basking in his 2 year success.
Lady Saw released her fifth studio album, Strip Tease, on August 24, under VP Records marking ten years into her career.
Strip Tease lead by a single of the same name peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Reggae Chart and No. 84 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart. Known as the “Queen of Dancehall,” Lady Saw continued to push boundaries with provocative tracks like “I’ve Got Your Man” and “Move Your Body,” both of which were local hits.
Meanwhile, emerging artist Ms. Thing made a significant impact with her feature on Beenie Man’s “Dude,” the lead single from his 16th studio album, Back to Basics (Virgin), produced by Dave Kelly. The breakout song peaked at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, and Ms. Thing held the record as the only female Jamaican artist to reach the Hot 100 for the next 17 years until Shenseea’s collaborations with Kanye West in 2021. “Dude” also peaked at No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart in March 2004 and spent 11 weeks on the chart. Ms. Thing since announced her retirement from the dancehall scene, after just one hit.
Released on July 13, 2004, Back to Basics marked Beenie Man’s return to his dancehall roots. The album, which also featured the single “King of the Dancehall,” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart—his 11th and final No. 1, staying at the top for two weeks. It climbed to No. 51 on the Billboard 200 chart, his second-highest charting album.
A month later, Capleton launched his 13th studio album, Reign of Fire, at the Pegasus Ballroom in Kingston via VP Records. Facebook had just launched in February, and YouTube was set to debut the following year, so fans had to attend live events to stay updated. Capleton’s presence in Twin Gates Plazas in Half Way Tree, Kingston, was a testament to his stardom. Reign of Fire, released on August 26, 2004, featured hits like “That Day Will Come” and “Jah Jah City,” with Capleton’s magnetic presence creating an intense and spiritual atmosphere. It was one of two albums he released that year, and the lyrics to “Or Wah,” produced by Richard Fisher, had fans eagerly deciphering his words.
Tanya Stephens released Gangsta Blues on March 30 via VP Records. This groundbreaking album showcased her lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities, becoming her first album to chart on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart at No. 10. With tracks like “It’s a Pity” and “Can’t Breathe,” Stephens addressed social issues and personal experiences, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Her unique blend of reggae and dancehall set her apart from other female dancehall acts- though she chose not to perform at school concerts, believing her music was not suitable for children.
Vybz Kartel, one of dancehall’s most controversial and innovative artists, released Timeless, his second studio album via Freedom Sounds. During the ‘Black Kartel’ era, Kartel’s raw lyrical wit and distinctive style set him apart, with tracks like “Sweet to the Belly” and “U Can’t Say.” His lyrics were often scrutinized for their impact on violence in Jamaica, and an onstage scuffle with Ninja Man drew the attention of Jamaica Constabulary top brass.
May 15, Mr. Vegas continued to make waves with the release of his album Pull Up. Known for his energetic performances and catchy tunes, Mr. Vegas delivered “Pull Up” which for a Culo remix with ATL rapper Lil Jon and Miami superstar Pitbull.
Outside Jamaica, dancehall music influenced groups like Culcha Candela, a multicultural group signed by Sony Records. Their debut album, Union Verdadera, combined dancehall, reggae, and Latin influences, peaking at No. 52 in Germany and gaining them recognition beyond their native country.
Sizzla released five albums in 2004: Red Alert (January 27, 2004, by Charm), Speak of Jah (February 24, 2004, by Bogalusa), Jah Knows Best (June 8, 2004, by RAS/Sanctuary), Stay Focus (August 24, 2004, by VP), and Life (October 12, 2004, by Greensleeves). By the end of the year, he had released 30 LPs at just 38 years old.
By the summer of 2004, various riddims were dominating the airwaves. The Thrilla Riddim by Birchill Records, released on June 22, brought together major names in dancehall including Bounty Killer (“Stand Firm”), Vybz Kartel (“More Life”), Elephant Man (“Get On Up and Dance”), Beenie Man (“Not On My Team”), and more.
The Mad Instruments Riddim, produced by Fire Links & Jazzwad, featured a range of feel-good tracks. Assassin contributed “Burn Dem Now” and “We Have Gal From,” while Beenie Man’s track was “Hypocrite Friend (Haters).” Busy Signal offered “If You Go,” and Capleton delivered “Turn It Up.” Da’Ville’s track was “Gallist,” and Elephant Man appeared on two tracks: “Mad Instrument Dance” and “Nah F*ck No Pum Pum.” Ms. Thing’s effort was “Pum Pum Tight,” Powerman provided “Gal What,” and Roundhead & Kiprich collaborated on “Ganja Lighter.” Tanto Metro & Devonte contributed “Run No Gal,” T.O.K. brought “Fire Fire,” Vybz Kartel’s track was “Real Badman,” and Ward 21 & Lady Saw rounded out the riddim with “Tickle Mi Elbow.” Zumjay completed the set with “Sexy Girl.”
