DJ Smurf and Richie Stephens collaborate

Producer and disc jock DJ Smurf is stepping up his production credentials this year with a slate of upcoming releases.

One of his latest efforts is a cover of American singer Gregory Hines' 1988 ballad So Much Better Now, which was recorded by veteran crooner Richie Stephens.

"Richie is one of those artistes who is always doing all kinda different things. He does reggae covers, lovers' rock, dancehall and gospel. One day we were in the studio and we were going through some songs that he started working on and I said to him, 'Da one deh bad yuh nuh.' And he asked me if I wanted to produce it and mi say 'Yeah.' That's how I got involved in producing So Much Better Now," DJ Smurf explained.

He had praises for Stephens whom he said is a professional.

"Working with Richie, the vibe is always good. Richie is one of dem artiste who knows what he's doing and he's always a professional with his work. He had already laid out the track, so me just do the rest," DJ Smurf added.

DJ Smurf previously collaborated with Stephens on songs including Life Without You, Stronger featuring Gentleman and Lady, which hit No. 1 on the New York Reggae charts a few years ago.

"I have a number of projects that were recently released including a single titled No Plan B by Blaze Shell Shell. I'm also working on a dancehall project that will feature Delly Ranx, Khago and Vershon among other artistes, so that is in the pipeline," DJ Smurf shared.

DJ Smurf, who recently wowed patrons at the Big Chunes retro party, is scheduled for Footloose retro party on May 28 and June's Mello Vibes party. DJ Smurf showcases his musical artistry at events such as Mature Mondays, Vintage Wednesdays, Thursdays at Waterfalls, and Red Stripe Good Fridays at Tracks & Records.