Riddim
/ RID-im /Quick answer: Riddim (pronounced RID-im) is the instrumental backing track in reggae and dancehall.
What does Riddim mean?
A riddim is the instrumental track — the drum and bass pattern — that singers and deejays perform over. In Jamaica, one riddim is often voiced by dozens of artists, each recording their own song over the same beat.
Where does Riddim come from?
It is the Jamaican pronunciation of ‘rhythm’. The idea of re-using one riddim for many songs began with 1960s and 70s sound systems and producers, and it is still central to Jamaican music today.
How to use Riddim
Famous riddims include Sleng Teng, Diwali and Real Rock. When a new riddim drops, fans compare which artist ‘killed’ it.
| Jamaican Patois | English |
|---|---|
| Dem release a new riddim. | They released a new instrumental. |
| Him voice pon di riddim. | He recorded a song on the instrumental. |
| Di riddim bad! | The beat is excellent! |
Other spellings
Because Patois is mostly spoken, spellings vary. You may also see: rhythm.
Related Patois words
Selecta · Dub · Deejay · Dubplate
Frequently asked
What is a riddim in reggae?
The instrumental track that artists sing or deejay over.
Why do many songs share one riddim?
It’s a Jamaican tradition — producers release a riddim and many artists voice it.
Look up more words in the Jamaican Patois Dictionary, or see Riddim in the dictionary.