A selection of the best reggae artists. Feeling the urge to move your body? Get on your feet and turn up the reggae music! Make sure to listen to only the highest quality of reggae with this selection of the best reggae artists. Enjoy classic favorites by Bob Marley and the Wailers, legendary contributions from Burning Spear and Ernest Ranglin, modern hits from Alison Hinds and Martian Cawley and fresh beats from some of Jamaica's new up-and-coming singers. No matter which vibe strikes a chord for you?keep it going with this edition of The Very Best of Reggae.
The Very Best of Reggae Music: A Guide to the Genre, History, and Top Artists Reggae music is a beloved genre that transports listeners to a laid-back, carefree atmosphere filled with sunshine, good vibes, and soulful beats. Originating in Jamaica in the late 1960s, reggae has since spread throughout the world, with its influence present in various musical styles. What sets this music apart is its incorporation of African rhythms and influences from other Caribbean cultures. In this article, we'll delve into the history of reggae, explore the genre's characteristics, highlight some of the best reggae songs of all time, and introduce the top reggae artists to help you discover the beauty of the music. History of Reggae Reggae music has its roots in Jamaica's ska and rocksteady music of the 1960s. Ska was a fast, upbeat style while rocksteady slowed things down with slower tempos and soulful singing. Reggae emerged from these two styles in the late 1960s, featuring the signature off-beat rhythm guitar sound and bass-heavy beats. The music emphasized social and political issues and often had a spiritual message from Rastafarianism, a religious belief with a strong influence in Jamaica. In the 1970s, reggae gained popularity worldwide with the rise of artists like Bob Marley and the Wailers and Jimmy Cliff, who introduced reggae to a global audience. Reggae Genre Characteristics Reggae music's rhythm is the backbone of the genre and has a unique feel to it that blends African and Caribbean rhythms. Reggae music emphasizes the bassline, and the beat is slower and more laid-back relative to other music genres. The genre heavily features various percussion instruments like bongos, conga, and shakers to create the trademark rhythm. Reggae also features a syncopated guitar rhythm called the skank playing on the offbeat. Top Reggae Songs One of the most iconic reggae songs is No Woman, No Cry by Bob Marley, a ballad about hardships of life, hope, and embracing the little joys in life. Other classic tracks include Get Up, Stand Up, Three Little Birds, and Redemption Song. Another must-hear example of reggae music is Many Rivers to Cross by Jimmy Cliff, which touches on struggles in life and the need to keep pushing forward. Selection of Top Reggae Artists While Bob Marley is easily recognizable as the king of reggae, many other talented artists have contributed to the genre's growth and development. Peter Tosh, a former Wailer and activist, was known for his powerful voice and singing about political issues. He was known for tracks like Legalize It, Jah Guide, and Equal Rights. Another artist, Dennis Brown, was known as the Crown Prince of Reggae and had a fantastic voice with a diverse music catalog that incorporated different genres like soul and funk. His hits include Revolution, Money In My Pocket, and Here I Come. Reggae music is an irresistible blend of rhythms, history, and soulful messages that continues to inspire artists and listeners worldwide. Its timeless melodies and rhythms have captured the hearts of many music lovers around the world, and for a good reason. With this guide, you are now equipped to explore the genre's history, identify reggae's crucial characteristics and learn some of the best reggae songs. So, sit back, relax, and let the music move you as we delve deeper into the reggae music world.