Johnny Osbourne (born Errol Osbourne, 1948) is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall singer, often referred to as the "Dancehall Godfather" due to his significant contributions to the genre, particularly in the late 1970s and 1980s. His career spans roots reggae to dancehall, with notable hits like "Buddy Bye," "Ice Cream Love," and "Water Pumping." Osbourne's work with producers like Prince Jammy (later King Jammy) and at labels like Studio One solidified his reputation as a versatile and influential artist. His ability to adapt to evolving reggae styles, including the transition from roots reggae to dancehall, made him a pivotal figure in Jamaican music.
The "Chopper Riddim" refers to the instrumental backing for "Lend Me Your Chopper," which is built on the Real Rock Riddim, a classic reggae riddim originally produced by Clement "Coxsone" Dodd at Studio One in 1967, performed by the Sound Dimension band. The Real Rock Riddim is one of the most reused and versioned riddims in reggae history, characterized by its distinctive bassline and versatile rhythm, making it a staple for numerous artists across decades.
"Lend Me Your Chopper" is a track from the 1983 Musical Chopper album, produced by Prince Jammy and recorded with backing bands like the High Times Players, Sly & Robbie, and Roots Radics. The album was mixed at Channel One and King Tubby's studios, with engineering by Prince Jammy and Scientist, highlighting the high-quality production typical of Jammy's work in the early 1980s. The track is a dancehall reggae piece, reflecting the genre's shift toward more digital and rhythm-driven sounds during this period.
The early 1980s marked a pivotal transition in Jamaican music, with dancehall emerging as a dominant force. Producers like Prince Jammy were instrumental in this shift, moving from roots reggae to more electronic and rhythm-heavy sounds, often using classic riddims like Real Rock as foundations. Osbourne's work on Musical Chopper and tracks like "Lend Me Your Chopper" captured this evolution, blending traditional reggae elements with the raw energy of dancehall. The album and its singles were well-received, with the Real Rock Riddim providing a familiar yet fresh backdrop for Osbourne’s lyrical prowess.
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