words by Eddie STATS Houghton
Classic New York-based dancehall imprint Witty’s is getting a new lease on life from online label Gold Shop Reggae. Overseen by industry veteran (VP, Greensleeves, Music Ambassador) Dan Kuster, Gold Shop has already made a splash with collectors of reggae vinyl through their represses of African Love 45s, including classic Shinehead sides like his “Billy Jean” cover–doubly in demand in the wake of Michael Jackson’s passing. The new run of 7″s sets off with Echo Minott’s “Follow Me” and 5 other titles, coppable through Deadly Dragon. But apparently these are just the first batch in a series that will span the whole output of Witty’s which, through the talents of owner Whitfield Henry and engineer Philip Smart, became the engine of a golden age in New York dancehall. Looking forward!