Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, renowned as the Riddim Twins, were pivotal session musicians in Jamaican music history, contributing to thousands of tracks since the mid 1970s. Their influential work spans numerous iconic recordings in the reggae genre, showcasing their exceptional talent and versatility.
The duo began their collaborative journey in the mid-70s, later founding the Taxi label to produce and release their own music. Collaborations with international artists like Peter Tosh and Black Uhuru brought them global recognition and extensive touring experiences. They played a significant role in reggae music, contributing to its first Grammy Award in 1985 and winning another Grammy in 1998.
Their collaborations with reggae greats such as Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, and Ini Kamoze have left a lasting impact on the genre and continue to inspire new reggae artists. The Riddim Twins also achieved acclaim in the pop world, working with stars like the Rolling Stones, Grace Jones, Joe Cocker, and Sinead O’Connor. Despite Robbie Shakespeare’s passing, their legacy endures, with their work spanning both reggae and popular music, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.