The flourishing dancehall era of the 1990s and beyond captured the imagination of artistes and producers destined to get some of the fame and fortune.

According to Dan Rich, “I met Kartel about 2002 when I was around a lot of other entertainers, like Gyptain and I Wayne.”

“All of us would be at Mr. Wong’s recording studio at Garveymeade, Portmore. All this happens before Kartel became popular in music.”

“We used to cook and all of us, including Kartel, would eat and be serious about music.”

“We cooked curry chicken and rice and dumplings. We would pool up and contribute to the cost. Even if a man don’t have money, him sure to get a one dumpling and even gravy to wet it.”

“Everybody virtually knew where to find each other. We would travel at times in the same vehicle which let us off at our gates. So, I knew pretty much where Kartel lived.”

“Kartel did all kinds of songs, but mostly girls lyrics.”

“Looking back, everybody had the same opportunity to be a star ’cause we all had talent.”

“We knew how to handle riddims and what it takes to attract listeners.”

However, Dan Rich had wanted much more out of music than being an artiste. He was fascinated with everything he saw around him. The microphone which he stood behind, the twin speakers which rumbles when the bass is too high, and the keyboard, which at the touch of a button changes the course of everything.

“My very first riddim was called ‘God Father’ with artistes Jah Mason, General Threes, Pinchers, and Dan Rich.”

“The second riddim, ‘Hice It Up’, had Dan Rich, Vybz Kartel, and Beenie Man, while the third, ‘Triple X’, had Dan Rich, Vybz Kartel, Beenie Man, and Versatile.”

“The medley was very popular. It allowed me to get performances on several shows, including Sting.”

“Kartel voiced three songs for me and I can confidently say he would be ready again to do the same.”

(Photo contributed)