Shabba Ranks’ “Mr. Loverman” Goes Silver in the UK

The 1992 dancehall classic by the Emperor hits three decades later, earning BPI Silver certification for over 200,000 units sold. Originally recorded with British lover’s rock singer Deborahe Glasgow, the track was later re-recorded in 1992 with Chevelle Franklyn following Glasgow’s passing

The dancehall emperor’s 1992 hit surpasses 200,000 UK sales

Dancehall icon Shabba Ranks’ 1992 single “Mr. Loverman” has been certified Silver in the UK by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) on Friday, October 10, recognizing over 200,000 units sold.

Released under Epic Records, the single became one of Ranks’ biggest international hits, peaking at #40 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching #3 on the UK Singles Chart, while also landing in the top 20 across France, Germany, and Ireland.

Originally recorded as “Champion Lover” by British lover’s rock singer Deborahe Glasgow in 1988, Ranks later versioned the track under the new title “Mr. Loverman”, with Glasgow as the featured female vocalist. Following Glasgow’s illness and untimely passing, the song was re-recorded in 1992 with Chevelle Franklyn providing the female vocals for its official single release.

Written by Shabba Ranks, Mikey Bennett, and Hopeton Lindon, “Mr. Loverman” became an infectious dancehall anthem throughout the ’90s, while its global appeal continuing to resonate with audiences decades later.

The track was featured briefly in an episode of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and its drum pattern was later sampled by Alanis Morissette on her hit single “You Learn.”