Music
riddim
What does riddim mean?
The instrumental rhythm track over which dancehall/reggae DJs voice their lyrics; many artists record over the same riddim.
"Nuff artist voice pon di same riddim."
Origin
Jamaican Patois pronunciation of 'rhythm,' foundational to dancehall and reggae, then carried into UK grime and drill via the Caribbean diaspora. Deeply embedded in British street music.
Frequently asked questions
What does riddim mean?
It's a beat or instrumental, from the Jamaican Patois pronunciation of 'rhythm.' MCs and rappers spit over a riddim.
Is riddim only a reggae word?
It started in dancehall and reggae but is now standard across UK grime, drill, and even electronic music. It crossed over with the Caribbean diaspora.
What's a riddim in dancehall specifically?
A reusable backing track that many artists each voice their own version over. One riddim can host dozens of different songs.
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