The year’s most dominant dancehall riddims often emerge during the winter, and that much is true for “WYFL,” a DJ Mac and CrashDummy production that has taken the Caribbean and its diaspora by storm. Released on November 25 of last year, “WYFL” is a slinky, sensual number anchored by a flow from rising Jamaican dancehall star Skippa.
A Viral Sensation
Skippa’s lyrics include, “Bad b—h a suck e tool fi Brazilian hair/ Say she love di crime, dah gyal have no care/ And plus her man a gi’ her fight, di mount a ting him a hear,” delivered in a vocal performance described as both menacing and seductive. This combination has helped “WYFL” dominate the dancehall arena, appealing to both women and men due to its blend of sweet lyrics and trap elements.
The “WYFL” riddim has spawned numerous remixes, including versions from Vybz Kartel (“SYM”), Spice (“Clean and Fresh”), Ding Dong (“Bun Bun”), Mavado (“Bad & BBC Rich”), Shatta Wale (“Danger”), Kabaka Pyramid (“Toxic”), Bugle (“Rasta Stulla”), I-Octane (“Top Gyalis”), Tina (“Watch Bracelet Ring Chain”), Charly Black (“Slim Dolly”), and even NLE Choppa (“Watch Me Now!”). Content creator Lady Lykez also created a viral moment with a curry chicken recipe set to the riddim.
Commercial Success and Creative Process
Skippa’s “WYFL” has earned over 2.9 million official on-demand streams in the U.S., a figure expected to increase with its growing popularity. DJ Mac began working on the riddim last October, initially aiming for a drum-and-bass sound, but found the trap elements created “the perfect match.”
Ding Dong was the first artist to record over the riddim in early November, and DJ Mac then brought the track to Skippa, resulting in “WYFL.” Valiant then joined the project, transforming it into a full-blown riddim. DJ Mac noted the energy surrounding the track was improving “after [Hurricane] Melissa.”
The magnitude of the riddim’s potential became clear to DJ Mac when Chronic Law contributed “Badness Upgrade 2.0.” A key to the riddim’s success is that CrashDummy advocated for slightly altering the riddim for each artist, a technique reminiscent of classic dancehall riddims like “Punany,” ensuring variety and appealing to artists like Mavado and Buju Banton.
DJ Mac described receiving a freestyle from Buju Banton as a moment of disbelief, stating, “I swear mi run up and down inna di house, bro; I had to call my mother.”
Future Plans
DJ Mac released his debut album, Ups & Downs, last year and is currently finishing Valiant’s upcoming album. He is also preparing a two-part WYFL Riddim album, featuring dancehall remixes and international takes, including collaborations with Latin artists. He will kick off his WYFL Tour on April 19 at the Village Underground in London, with additional dates in North America and Europe to be announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “WYFL” riddim?
“WYFL” is a dancehall riddim produced by DJ Mac and CrashDummy, released on November 25 of last year, that has become popular in the Caribbean and its diaspora.
Who are some of the artists who have created versions of the “WYFL” riddim?
Artists who have created versions of the “WYFL” riddim include Vybz Kartel, Spice, Ding Dong, Mavado, Shatta Wale, and NLE Choppa, among others.
How many streams has Skippa’s “WYFL” received in the U.S.?
Skippa’s “WYFL” has earned over 2.9 million official on-demand streams in the U.S.
Will the success of “WYFL” inspire a new wave of collaborative remixes and adaptations within the dancehall genre?