“Bwoy, time tough!” has been a lament by Jamaicans for many years. It’s something singjay Rod Pinnock (aka Da N’Trapaneur) identifies with, and which inspired Daddy Pension, his latest song.
Produced by Chad “Mr. G” Simpson, Daddy Pension is autobiographical. According to Pinnock, he lived the rags-to-riches lifestyle before going back to square one.
“After gaining a level of business success at a tender age of 20, only to lose it all, really inspired I an’ I to construct the lyrics surrounding the question I ask in the chorus, ‘wha’ mi fi do’?” he explained.
Daddy Pension is recorded on the Culture Box rhythm, which was played by dancehall beat-masters Steely and Clevie several years ago. Guitarist Dalton Browne, older brother of Clevie, also played on the track.
Deejay Mr. G, whose reputation as a producer has risen in recent years, directed Pinnock on the song which was released in March.
Having experienced hardship and the good life, Pinnock bemoans the current economic challenges in Jamaica.
“The working-class in Jamaica overall face many challenges, in my opinion. The cost of living increases while the wages don’t, and even though there is economic progress in Jamaica, that takes too long to manifest and the benefits take a long time to reach the working-class,” he reasoned.
Pinnock grew up in east Kingston, a working-class section of the Jamaican capital that has produced a number of talented artistes including The Skatalites, Spragga Benz and Wayne Wonder.
Influenced by diverse acts such as Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart and Maxi Priest, he is principal of the Orize’n music label which produced rhythms such as the Monster Rock and Wassy 20 years ago.
Daddy Pension is earmarked for Pinnock’s first album scheduled for release this year. Other songs such as 2018 and Jah Provides are also expected to make the cut.
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