Over a dub track, rappers (called toasters) would chant lyrics of topical concerns. The form began live at sound system dances, eventually leading to recordings of toasts on disc. Major figures include U-Roy, Big Youth, I Roy. The early 1970s produced a strain of Jamaican music called DJ Toasting that would eventually influence the course of hip-hop and Dancehall. DJ's working for top producers would spin the latest hits on traveling sound systems, hosting parties for weekend revelers, and spicing the music with their "toasts": boastful commentaries, chants and half-sung rhymes. Artists such as Big Youth and U-Roy would play a popular reggae hit with the lead vocals removed, and create their own version filled with fiery wit, melodic poetry and a rhythmic style. Some of the best albums to come out of this era were Doctor Alimintado's Lee Perry- produced classic Best Dressed Chicken in Town and Big Youth's Screaming Target.
Genre Guide 2000 · World/Folk › Reggae