Contributed - Delano from Renaissance Disco.

The Renaissance Disco started out in 1989 with five selectors, Delano Thomas, Marvin Edwards, Leslie Baugh, Ronald and Ian. Dubbed the 'uptown sound', the outfit has emerged to become one of the most sought after in the business.

"The biggest highlight for us (Renaissance) over the 19 years was when we appeared on BET 106 and Park show. That was a big deal for us. We also did Showtime at the Apollo and that was major," Thomas the main selector for Renaissance reminisced recently.

touring band

Credited for fusing dancehall with hip hop, Renaissance has toured the world while dabbling in production. "We started the dancehall remixes. Having worked with almost every major Jamaican artiste has only challenged us to continue doing what we do. The remix of the Dancehall Queen song with Beenie Man and Chevelle Franklin was our first major project internationally. We also did the nitro mix for Bounty Killer's Fed Up, as well as the East Cost mega mix," Thomas said.

The current line-up for the Renaissance Disco includes Thomas, Edwards, Dr Dre, Pepsi, Smoke, Foodie, Kristoff and Jazzy T.

Production wise, Renaissance has churned out hit rhythms with Tunda Clap, Rebirth, Ice Breaker, Steps and Quick Draw. Its most recent project, the Legal rhythm, has spewed radio hits with Natural Black's Nine to Five, Kris Kelli's Sweet Intro, Lonely by Sanjay, Serenity by Gentleman and It's Time by VC.

diversity

Thomas outlined that a well-equipped cadre of selectors and being diverse in its musical offerings have contributed to the Renaissance Disco's staying power in the business. "One of the things that I would like to see take place is quick selectors become good selectors. Selectors need to do their research and know about the tools of their trade."

The Renaissance Disco will mark its 19th anniversary on Saturday, August 9, at the Palisadoes Go Kart Track with the staging of Flight #19. The event will feature the Renaissance disco selectors, as well as guest selectors and surprises.