Artist: Derrick Morgan Album: I Am the Ruler

Year: 1992
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Derrick Morgan's I Am the Ruler: Exploring the Album's History, Genre, Standout Tracks, and Innovations

In the realm of ska and rocksteady music, Derrick Morgan stands out as one of the pioneers of the genre. The Jamaican singer-songwriter made a name for himself during the '60s, not only for his soulful voice but also for his socially conscious lyrics. One of his most celebrated works is I Am the Ruler, an album released in 1969 that captures Morgan's signature sound and style. In this critical review, we'll delve into the history of the album, the music genre it belongs to, the standout tracks, and the innovative elements that set it apart from other works. Whether you're a longtime fan of Derrick Morgan or discovering his music for the first time, this review will provide a comprehensive and insightful analysis of I Am The Ruler.

Before we delve into the album's content, it's important to understand the context and history surrounding I Am The Ruler. Released in 1969, the album came out during a significant period in Jamaica's social and political history. Specifically, the country had just gained independence from Britain and was undergoing many transitions and changes. As such, Morgan's music, particularly I Am The Ruler, was infused with social commentary, activism, and a sense of urgency. The album's ten tracks tackle various topics such as love, unity, equality, and the fight against oppression.

In terms of music genre, I Am The Ruler belongs to the ska and rocksteady style, which originated in Jamaica during the '60s. Skank and rocksteady are characterized by their use of horns, upbeat tempos, and syncopated rhythms. Morgan's album embodies these musical elements, thanks to the contributions of the backing band, The Aggrovators. The combination of Morgan's vocals and The Aggrovators' music resulted in a timeless masterpiece that captures the essence of ska music.

One of the standout tracks on the album is the titular song, I Am The Ruler. The song boasts an infectious rhythm that invites listeners to dance along. Additionally, the lyrics celebrate unity and empowerment, with Morgan proclaiming, I Am The Ruler, don't you know! Another noteworthy track is Remo Don't Know, which has a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood. The song's ballad-like quality highlights Morgan's versatility as a singer, and the poignant lyrics speak to the importance of communication in relationships.

Innovations-wise, I Am The Ruler features various inventive elements that set it apart from other ska and rocksteady albums. For instance, the album features some of the earliest uses of the toasting style, which involves chanting and speaking in rhythm over music. Toasting, which eventually evolved into rap music, was an innovative technique that helped lay the foundation for the development of new music genres. Additionally, I Am The Ruler was one of the first albums to use a drum machine, a groundbreaking technology at the time.

In conclusion, I Am The Ruler by Derrick Morgan is a seminal album that captures the essence of Jamaican ska and rocksteady music while also incorporating diverse and innovative elements. Through its socially conscious lyrics, infectious rhythms, and remarkable collaborations, the album has stood the test of time and remains a classic today. Whether you're a devoted fan or new to Morgan's music, I Am The Ruler is an album worth exploring. So, put on your dancing shoes, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the vibrant and soulful sounds of Derrick Morgan.