Papa San: The Dancehall Icon Behind the Hit Song “I Will Survive”
In the year 1989, the dancehall scene in Jamaica was buzzing with the infectious Duck rhythm that had taken the music industry by storm. Artists like Flourgon and Red Dragon had already scored hits with their tracks “Bounce” and “Duck,” respectively. It was during this time that Papa San, one of the hottest names in dancehall, decided to jump onto the beat with his own rendition of the rhythm.
Papa San’s version of the Duck rhythm came in the form of the song “I Will Survive.” The track, which borrowed elements from Gloria Gaynor’s disco anthem of the same name, quickly became a sensation, topping the charts on JBC Radio 1 and RJR Top 40. Produced by Donovan Loubar and released under the Dallas Texas label, “I Will Survive” marked a turning point in Papa San’s career, propelling him to new heights of success in the local music scene.
In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, Papa San reminisced about the inspiration behind “I Will Survive.” He revealed that the idea for the song stemmed from his father’s relentless efforts to provide for his family. Papa San’s father’s hard work and dedication served as the driving force behind the powerful lyrics of the track, showcasing themes of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The song’s universal message resonated with listeners from all walks of life, as Papa San explained, “It’s something that most Jamaicans can relate to. Most of us aren’t born with a silver or gold spoon in our mouths… We see the challenges that the parents face… People connected to that song because it was the reality of the lives of many people.”
Following the success of “I Will Survive,” Papa San continued to deliver hit after hit, collaborating with artists like Lady G, Carlene Davis, and Maddy Maddy Cry. He later made waves in the international music scene with his hip hop-dancehall fusion track “Dancehall Good to We” released under US-based Pow Wow Records.
In 1993, Papa San reached new heights of success with his collaborations with house music icon David Morales on two Billboard #1 Dance hits, “Eenie Meenie Miny Mo (Gimmie Luv)” and “The Program.” These tracks showcased Papa San’s versatility as an artist and his ability to transcend musical boundaries with his unique blend of dancehall and house music influences.
As Papa San’s career continues to evolve, his legacy as a pioneer in the dancehall genre remains unrivaled. With his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to his craft, Papa San stands as a shining example of the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite audiences around the world.
