Run the Riddim: The Untold Story of 90s Dancehall to the World

"Fascinating! Lots of insight into the history of Jamaican dancehall music" - David Rodigan MBE

"This account is as insightful and revelatory as its title suggests, shining light on a wildly creative, volatile and occasionally hugely controversial genre and the culture that surrounds it. You’re left wondering why no one has written this book before, and why Sparks had to publish it himself." - The Guardian, Best Music Books of 2021

"Run The Riddim is well worth reading - both for listeners who heard the music at the time of its creation as well as for those who are only now discovering it through the obligatory retro segment in dance" - Pete Lilly, Riddim Magazine

"The book is dope and definitely needed" - Julian Jones-Griffith, Pop Style Music CEO and one-time Bounty Killer manager

Remember when dancehall riddims were king? Run the Riddim: The Untold Story of '90s Dancehall to the World is the first definitive story of the golden era. Told through seminal riddims, Marvin Sparks explores the sound origins, identity, tragedies, triumphs and lasting legacy. Read about the rise and importance of Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Lady Saw, Shabba Ranks, Super Cat, Garnett Silk, Beres Hammond, Dancehall Queen Carlene, Sizzla, Capleton, Steely & Clevie, Dave Kelly, Tony “CD” Kelly, Danny Browne, Red Rat, Baby Cham, Sean Paul and many more.

The author - a lifelong dancehall student - weaves lived experiences and observations with quotes from over 30 recorded conversations with founding producers, prominent artists, well-known DJs and other industry figures who share memories and reveal personal stories beyond the beat - providing a space for them to set the record straight.

"I've enjoyed the book and it’s a refreshing read" - John MacGillivray, founder of Dub Vendor and Fashion Records

"[Run The Riddim] should be a standard reference book, it’s absolutely jam packed with information and interviews about the rise, fall and enduring influence of particular dancehall styles, written from inside the dancehall as it were, rather than by an outside observer. Can’t recommend it enough" - Joe Muggs, author of Bass, Mids, Tops

"If a book could get a 'forwaaaaard’ … it’d be this. So good. Congrats and thank you" - Toddla T, DJ/Producer