Mikey Jarrett feat. Kimbra Morris - Haul and Pull - NiceUp

Dubshot Records

In America, the nineties were a boom time for dancehall reggae. The popularity of foundation Jamaican dancehall artists like Shabba Ranks, Tenor Saw, Josey Wales and Supercat was securely established, and sound systems were hosting and promoting Jamaican artists.

On the dancefloor and on the radio, dancehall releases were being promoted and mixed with other forms of popular music by selectors and DJs such as Kool, DJ Red Alert and Bobby Konders. Particularly in New York, Caribbean migrants and Americans of all kinds were embracing an emerging wave of international dancehall music, fused with the urban elements of hip-hop music.

One such star of the emerging New York dancehall circut was ‘Mikey Jarrett’, who shot to acclaim after voicing the huge crossover hit, ‘Mack Daddy’. With its infectious hook and up-temo danceable rhythm, this slackness classic became a veritable overnight anthem.

Jarrett’s smooth and percussive delivery teamed with a solid ‘Emotions/Blind Alley’ drum sample flip from a young Salaam Remi, quickly made ‘Mack Daddy’ a benchmark for artists wanting to make moves in this emerging industry. Indeed, along with crossover vocalists like Screechy Dan, Red Fox and Shaggy, Mikey Jarrett was an essential player in establishing a definitive New York dancehall sound.

Jarrett’s initial success remains the cornerstone of his carreer, and now two decades later, we find him ready to treat listeners to more of his vintage delivery and foundation flair. ‘Haul and pull up selector mi say, one more time’ calls Jarrett, as he takes on a smooth, bubbling journey over a fresh Prince Polo produced riddim. The cut is a sublime 70s inspired dancefloor warmer, with laid back, toaster style vocals with added soulful sweetness from Kendra Morris.

‘Haul and Pull’ is the first release from producer Prince Polo’s new album ‘Mix Me Down Operator’, due out December 10 on Dubshot Records. The LP also features collaborations from Addis Pablo, Ranking Joe and many more.