Donnoya Drake – Only You / Shake Up The Dance

Year Released: 2023
Genre: Reggae Ska.
Detailed Description: 

The A-side, “Only You,” is a reggae-soul reworking of the timeless song originally recorded by Yazoo in 1982. Rather than leaning into the synth-driven melancholy of the original, Donnoya Drake transforms the track into a warm, laid-back rocksteady groove. The arrangement trades electronic textures for crisp guitar skanks, a rounded bassline, and subtle organ flourishes that give the song a distinctly vintage feel. Drake’s vocal delivery is smooth and soulful, bringing a relaxed intimacy to the melody while maintaining the emotional core that made the original so memorable. The result is a version that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly different.

On the flip side, “Shake Up The Dance” shifts the focus toward the dancefloor. Built on a lively ska-leaning rhythm, the track bursts with upbeat energy. Punchy horn lines, tight drums, and a bubbling bassline keep the groove moving from start to finish, creating the kind of instrumental that DJs can easily slot into a lively ska or reggae set. It’s bright, rhythmic, and unapologetically fun.

Together, the two sides showcase Donnoya Drake’s knack for balancing reinterpretation with authenticity. By pairing a clever cover with a vibrant original-style instrumental, the record captures the playful spirit that has always been at the heart of Jamaican-influenced music.

For collectors and DJs alike, Only You / Shake Up The Dance is another charming 7-inch that proves classic songs can take on a whole new life when filtered through the timeless grooves of ska and rocksteady.