riddims

A riddim, short for rhythm, is the instrumental backing track used in reggae, dancehall, and related genres. It provides the drum, bass, and melodic elements that establish the groove, while vocalists record their lyrics over the same instrumental bed. A single riddim can support many different songs, each with its own artist and vocal style.

Riddims originated in Jamaica, evolving from ska and rocksteady into reggae and dancehall. Producers and sound systems assemble a bass-forward groove and then release it for others to voice over. Once a riddim is released, multiple artists may cut new versions, creating a family of related songs built on the same musical foundation.

In practice, riddims are often issued as packages with instrumental and vocal versions, and later versions or dub mixes. The system encourages collaboration and competition, as deejays, MCs, and singers vie to craft popular hits atop familiar grooves. With digital production, riddims can be shared and licensed globally, expanding their reach beyond Jamaica.

Notable riddims include Sleng Teng, which helped pioneer digital dancehall in the mid-1980s, as well as classic patterns like Stalag and Real Rock that have endured in reggae and dancehall repertories. The concept remains central to the genre, shaping how producers, artists, and audiences experience rhythm, remix culture, and cross-artist collaboration.