Supa Hype Celebrates “Dutty Wine” UK Silver Certification: “Its Impact After 20 Years Is Amazing”

Exclusive: Veteran selector and producer Supa Hype discusses the global impact of “Dutty Wine,” Elephant Man’s return to UK stages, and the state of dancehall today. “Dancehall is on top, and authentic dancehall is finally getting the recognition it deserves,” he said

Supa Hype, celebrates “Dutty Wine” milestone

Veteran Jamaican selector and producer Supa Hype is celebrating a milestone moment as the single he produced, “Dutty Wine,” Tony Matterhorn’s breakout hit, has officially been certified Silver in the UK, signifying 200,000 units sold.

The certification was announced on Friday by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), coinciding with Supa Hype’s time in England, where he is currently playing the role of selector for dancehall icon Elephant Man. “Being in the UK when this happened made it even more amazing. I put my all into my production and I take my time to work closely with an artiste to get everything perfect,” he told Kaboom Magazine in an exclusive interview. “It’s just an incredible feeling knowing it’s had such a great impact after 20 years! I’m really thankful.”

Released in 2006 on Supa Hype’s Smash Riddim under his Hyperactive Entertainment label, the track carved out a rich legacy, sparking a worldwide buzz with the famed street dance.

Nearly two decades later, “Dutty Wine” continues to make waves, amassing over 37 million YouTube views across all versions and more than 41.2 million Spotify streams. Looking back on its longevity, Supa Hype recalled his original vision: “I'm a music lover, and I wanted to drop a riddim unlike anything else, a 'happy' riddim that brings joy. It feels like it's doing exactly that, and for it to be recognised globally is a real blessing.”

As dancehall experiences a global resurgence, selling out arenas and venues worldwide, Supa Hype, whose given name is Stephen Davis, is extending his influence alongside the recent success of Elephant Man, who just returned to UK stages after 20 years. “Dancehall is on top, and authentic dancehall is finally getting the recognition it deserves. We all grew up listening and partying to Elephant Man, and it's an absolute joy to work with him. I'm honored to be on his team and feel right at home, bringing my own energy to the mix. This resurgence is exactly what we needed.”

Discussing the future of dancehall, Supa Hype shared his vision: “It’s important for me to keep putting out authentic dancehall beats that get people moving. I’ve still got a close relationship with VP Records and just remastered the song, plus voiced three new anthems on the beat that’ll be out soon.”

 “Dancehall is on top, and authentic dancehall is finally getting the recognition it deserves. We all grew up listening and partying to Elephant Man, and it's an absolute joy to work with him.”

Davis also revealed some of his current projects, which bring together both leading new-generation voices and seasoned veterans. “I’m working with several artists, including Iwaata, Afro B, Yaksta, Harry Toddler, ABG, and more.”

At the same time, he shared his aspirations for future collaborations: “I really aspire to work with some of the young giants like Kraff, Jada Kingdom, Lila Iké, Najeeri, Chronic Law, Valiant, and others. I’m just really excited about dancehall music and where it’s going, and I want to be a part of it every step of the way.”

Elephant Man in the UK. "honored to be on his team and feel right at home." (Photo: Stoney Johnson)

Boasting an extensive career spanning over 30 years, balancing roles as a label owner, radio disc jockey, and producer, Supa Hype shows no signs of slowing down, and his passion remains unwavering. “I'm just really excited about dancehall music and where it’s going, and I want to be a part of it every step of the way,” he declared.